Turkey is perhaps the most iconic Thanksgiving dish, and its origins can be traced back to the early colonial period. While wild turkeys were abundant in North America, it's unclear whether the Pilgrims at Plymouth actually had turkey at their first Thanksgiving in 1621.
However, by the late 19th century, turkey became the centerpiece of Thanksgiving meals, largely due to its size and ability to feed large families. Roasting a turkey, often stuffed with a seasoned bread mixture, has become a key tradition for many families.
Another classic dish, stuffing (or dressing), was influenced by European traditions. Early stuffing recipes included a variety of grains, vegetables, and meats, but over time, it became a more standardized recipe made from cubed bread, herbs, onions, and sometimes sausage or apples.
Mashed potatoes are another Thanksgiving favorite, although potatoes were not native to North America. Native Americans introduced many other vegetables, including corn, squash, and beans, to early settlers, and these became staples in Thanksgiving meals.
Potatoes, however, came to the colonies through European trade. By the 18th century, mashed potatoes, made with butter and cream, became a popular dish at many American tables.
Cranberry sauce, often served as a tart contrast to the savory dishes, has its origins with Native Americans, who used cranberries in various dishes. The Pilgrims learned to prepare cranberries with sugar to make sauces or relishes, and today, it's a ubiquitous Thanksgiving side dish.
Pumpkin pie is another beloved dessert that has evolved over time. Early American settlers did not have sugar and ovens for baking pies as we do today, but they did have pumpkins, which were often used in stews or roasted.
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