Historically, the feathered bird turkey has been part of the holiday feast, serving as the centerpiece on most family dinner tables. However, with changing cuisine and personal opinion, ideas on its requirement for the celebration have changed over time. For some, it represents the history and spirit of Thanksgiving. Cayden Eilers (12), a senior at YLHS, says, “Thanksgiving turkey is a tradition. You have to have it on your plate!” His passion for the dish underlines its importance to many families because preparing and enjoying it is considered a specific event to bring people closer and make the holiday more memorable.
Gathering around a roasted turkey can be a time-honored ritual reinforcing family bonds and shared memories. Another reason for the enduring popularity of turkey is that it can be roasted, smoked, fried, or even stuffed, all of which suit various tastes and flavor profiles. The leftover turkey can also be turned into sandwiches, soups, or casseroles to stretch its presence beyond one day. The taste and the feeling of nostalgia are enclosed with the idea of turkey for many. Yet, many people think it’s optional to complete the holiday dinner. Many folks question whether the whole turkey should still be center stage since cooking takes so much work. Cooking a big bird can require a lot of time and attention to detail, often resulting in an abundance of leftovers that some families may not appreciate-especially at smaller gatherings.
Additionally, some people prefer more different and complex tastes in their Thanksgiving meal. Some may find turkey less tasty than ham, roast beef, or vegetarian options. The more society is technologized, the more lifestyles and the typical Thanksgiving meal will differ. While some still prioritize traditional turkey, others have begun incorporating alternative proteins or vegetarian dishes. This reflects a more significant trend toward the personalization of Thanksgiving celebrations, in which adherence to tradition is less important than what feels joyful and suitable to each family. Serving turkey does not need to be an all-or-nothing decision. More minor cuts, like turkey breasts or legs, are more manageable to cook and considerate of food waste, yet still pay homage to the tradition of the meal. Others may integrate turkey into other courses not typically associated with the holiday, such as turkey sliders or salads, which enables a more eclectic menu catering to a wide array of tastes. Although many still need to consider the cultural and historical importance of the centerpiece, the absence of Turkey would not take away from the essence of the celebration. Whatever is served, Thanksgiving remains a time of gathering together, giving thanks, and sharing a meaningful meal. Whether turkey is the centerpiece or is taken over by other dishes, the spirit of Thanksgiving lies in creating wholesome memories around the table. The controversy over turkey establishes a balance between traditional and modern food preferences. Even as some will permanently save room on their dinner tables for a roasted turkey, some people enjoy making new traditions that better fit their values and tastes. It is a time for introspection, reconnecting, and enjoyment of shared experiences, whether with or without the turkey at the center.
