[REVEALED] Thanksgiving Foods That Start With S

Thanksgiving is a time when families gather around the table to share gratitude and indulge in a feast of delectable dishes. While the traditional turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce often take center stage, there’s a world of culinary delights that start with the letter ‘S’ waiting to enhance your Thanksgiving spread. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a diverse array of Thanksgiving foods that begin with the letter “S”, offering you a unique twist on this beloved holiday. From savory mains to succulent sides and delightful desserts, let’s dive into the culinary alphabet of Thanksgiving.

List Of Thanksgiving Foods That Start With S

Sweet Potato Casserole

Description:
A classic Thanksgiving side dish that seamlessly blends the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of butter and brown sugar. Topped with a layer of pecans or marshmallows, this casserole adds a delightful contrast in textures and flavors to your Thanksgiving feast.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or mini marshmallows (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish.
4. Top with chopped pecans or mini marshmallows.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.

Sage Stuffing

Description:
Stuffing, a quintessential Thanksgiving side dish, takes on a flavorful twist with the addition of sage. The aromatic and earthy notes of sage complement the bread, creating a stuffing that is both comforting and delicious.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread, cubed and toasted
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the vegetable mixture.
5. Gradually add broth until the desired moisture level is reached.
6. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Succulent Roast Turkey

Description:
The star of the Thanksgiving table, the roast turkey, takes center stage with its golden-brown exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. A carefully seasoned and roasted turkey is the epitome of a traditional Thanksgiving feast.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 12-15 pound whole turkey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the cavity with salt and pepper, then stuff it with lemon halves, onion quarters, and smashed garlic.
4. In a bowl, mix melted butter with dried sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Brush the turkey with the seasoned butter, making sure to coat the entire surface.
6. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven, following the cooking time guidelines based on the turkey’s weight.
7. Allow the turkey to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Spinach And Artichoke Dip

Description:
A crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy goodness with the earthy flavors of spinach and the subtle tang of artichokes. Serve this dip with tortilla chips or slices of crusty bread to keep guests happily munching before the main course.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips or crusty bread.

Sweet Cornbread

Description:
Add a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving meal with a side of delicious sweet cornbread. Moist and flavorful, this cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to savory dishes and can also be used to make a delightful stuffing.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Sausage And Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash

Description:
Upgrade your Thanksgiving side dish game with this savory and sweet stuffed acorn squash. The combination of sausage, apples, and aromatic herbs creates a medley of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Recipe:
Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the cut sides of acorn squash with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, cook ground sausage until browned. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
4. Stir in chopped apples, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
5. Stuff each acorn squash half with the sausage and apple mixture.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender.

Sweet Potato Pie

Description:
Cap off your Thanksgiving feast with a delectable sweet potato pie. A luscious filling made from roasted sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a flaky crust creates a dessert that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (from about 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
For the crust:

1. In a food processor, pulse together flour, chilled butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie dish.

For the filling:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared pie crust.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set.
5. Allow the pie to cool before serving.

As you prepare for Thanksgiving, consider incorporating these delightful ‘S’-themed dishes into your feast. From the succulent roast turkey to the sweet potato pie, each recipe offers a unique twist to the traditional Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes provide a flavorful and diverse selection to impress your guests and make this Thanksgiving truly memorable. Embrace the spirit of the season, and may your holiday be filled with gratitude, joy, and, of course, scrumptious food!

Significance

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday that brings families and friends together to express gratitude and enjoy a feast of delicious food. The traditional Thanksgiving menu is a diverse array of dishes, each contributing to the overall richness of the celebration.

The significance of Thanksgiving lies in its historical roots and the tradition of giving thanks for a bountiful harvest. This annual celebration, which traces its origins to the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621, has evolved into a day of gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, a lavish feast. The Thanksgiving meal is a symbol of abundance and unity, with various dishes holding cultural and familial importance. Exploring Thanksgiving foods that start with ‘S’ adds a unique twist to the traditional menu and enhances the culinary experience.

Category-Related

1. Savory Main Courses

A. Roast Turkey

Undoubtedly the star of the Thanksgiving table, the roast turkey takes center stage as the main course. Succulent and golden-brown, a well-prepared roast turkey is a labor of love. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, it captures the essence of Thanksgiving, offering a delectable centerpiece for the celebration.

B. Smoked Ham

While turkey is the traditional choice, some families opt for a smoked ham as an alternative main course. The smoky flavor and tender texture make smoked ham a savory delight that complements the Thanksgiving spread. Glazed with a sweet and savory coating, it adds a unique touch to the festive meal.

2. Satisfying Sides

A. Stuffing

A Thanksgiving table is incomplete without stuffing, and this savory side dish is a perfect companion to the main course. Made with a mixture of bread, herbs, vegetables, and sometimes sausage, stuffing adds a flavorful and textured element to the feast. Whether cooked inside the turkey or as a separate dish, it embodies the essence of Thanksgiving comfort food.

B. Sweet Potato Casserole

While sweet potatoes may start with “S”, the sweet potato casserole takes this humble vegetable to new heights. Topped with a crunchy pecan or marshmallow topping, this side dish strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and earthiness. The vibrant orange color adds a burst of warmth to the Thanksgiving table.

C. Cranberry Sauce

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without cranberry sauce, a tangy and sweet side dish that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the meal. Whether served fresh, canned, or homemade, cranberry sauce adds a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the other dishes on the table.

3. Scrumptious Starters

A. Shrimp Cocktail

As an elegant and appetizing starter, shrimp cocktail brings a touch of sophistication to the Thanksgiving meal. Chilled shrimp served with a zesty cocktail sauce tantalizes the taste buds and sets the stage for the culinary delights that follow. It’s a delightful ‘S’ addition to the Thanksgiving appetizer lineup.

B. Spinach Dip

Creamy and flavorful, spinach dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that adds a dose of greens to the Thanksgiving spread. Served with bread, crackers, or vegetable dippers, this dip is a delightful way to start the feast. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it an ‘S’-themed appetizer that’s hard to resist.

Common Themes

Thanksgiving foods that start with ‘S’ share common themes that resonate with the spirit of the holiday. These themes reflect the essence of gratitude, abundance, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Let’s explore these common themes that tie together the diverse array of ‘S’-themed dishes.

1. Seasonal Ingredients

Many Thanksgiving foods that start with ‘S’ are crafted using seasonal ingredients that reflect the autumn harvest. Whether it’s the rich flavors of roasted squash, the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, or the tartness of fresh cranberries, these dishes capture the essence of the season and celebrate the abundance of fall.

2. Soul-Warming Comfort

‘S’-themed dishes often contribute to the soul-warming comfort that defines Thanksgiving. From the hearty stuffing to the creamy sweet potato casserole, these dishes evoke a sense of coziness and satisfaction. The combination of familiar flavors and textures creates a comforting experience that resonates with the holiday’s spirit.

3. Shared Traditions

Thanksgiving is a time for shared traditions, and the ‘S’-themed dishes play a crucial role in shaping these culinary customs. Whether it’s the shared act of carving into a succulent roast turkey or passing around a dish of stuffing, these foods become a focal point for family and friends to come together and create lasting memories.

Interesting Facts

As we delve deeper into the world of Thanksgiving foods that start with “S”, let’s uncover some interesting facts that add layers of fascination to these culinary delights.

1. Sweet Potatoes Vs. Yams

The term ‘sweet potato’ and ‘yam’ are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct vegetables. True yams are not widely available in the United States; what is commonly referred to as yams are often a variety of sweet potatoes. The confusion stems from historical labeling, and today, both sweet potatoes and yams find their way onto Thanksgiving tables in various forms.

2. The Evolution Of Stuffing

Stuffing has a long history, dating back to ancient times. In medieval Europe, it was common to stuff birds with a mixture of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. The modern American version of stuffing has evolved over the centuries, incorporating regional flavors and diverse ingredients. Today, stuffing recipes range from traditional herb-infused varieties to more adventurous combinations, showcasing the creativity of Thanksgiving cooks.

3. Cranberries: A Native American Tradition

Cranberries have deep roots in Native American traditions. Indigenous peoples used cranberries for medicinal purposes, as a dye, and in various culinary applications. The tart berries became a staple in the diet of Native Americans, and their inclusion in the Thanksgiving feast pays homage to this rich cultural history.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, unity, and abundance, and the diverse array of foods that start with the letter ‘S’ adds a unique and flavorful dimension to this annual feast. From the iconic roast turkey to the soul-warming stuffing, each dish contributes to the rich tapestry of Thanksgiving traditions. The ‘S’-themed foods not only showcase the culinary creativity of the holiday but also offer a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of the feast.

As families and friends gather around the Thanksgiving table, the savory main courses, satisfying sides, and scrumptious starters that start with ‘S’ become a focal point for shared traditions and lasting memories. Whether it’s the familiar comfort of sweet potato casserole or the elegant touch of shrimp cocktail, these dishes play a vital role in creating a festive atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving. As we savor the flavors of the season, let the ‘S’-themed foods remind us of the joy of giving thanks and the warmth of coming together for a bountiful celebration.