Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without turkey on the table, right? Well, a recent survey suggests otherwise! While turkey remains a tradition, Americans are now showing more love for side dishes than for the big bird itself.
Stuffing and Mashed Potatoes Are The True Stars
According to the survey, stuffing and mashed potatoes ranked above turkey as the top Thanksgiving foods Americans crave. Stuffing, with its savory blend of herbs and soft texture, brings a homestyle comfort that resonates with many. And mashed potatoes? Creamy, buttery, and smooth, they pair well with everything on the table. Together, these sides seem to be pushing turkey out of the spotlight.
Why Turkey Might Not Be the Favorite
While turkey holds iconic status, its popularity is facing a few challenges. Turkey can be tricky to cook, often turning dry or bland if not prepared just right. In contrast, sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing are easier to make delicious and adaptable to various flavor profiles. For many, the holiday meal is more enjoyable when they’re not worrying about dry turkey.
Other Popular Sides Making the Cut
The survey also highlighted other side dishes Americans love, including sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Each of these brings a unique flavor that adds depth to the Thanksgiving table. Sweet potatoes with a hint of brown sugar and marshmallows, tart cranberry sauce, and creamy green bean casserole all offer flavor contrasts that make Thanksgiving plates more vibrant.
The Most Disliked Dish
Interestingly, the survey also revealed that the most disliked Thanksgiving food is green bean casserole, surprisingly enough. Though it’s a staple for some, the canned soup and fried onion topping can be divisive. Many Americans would be just as happy if green bean casserole didn’t make it to the holiday table.
Why Sides Matter More Than Ever
This shift in Thanksgiving preferences shows that Americans are increasingly valuing variety and flexibility over tradition alone. Side dishes offer the chance to experiment with flavors, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. It’s a reminder that Thanksgiving is a meal where every dish—no matter how small—brings a touch of comfort and nostalgia.
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