Essential dishes for Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day isn't just another event on the American calendar; it's a tradition deeply rooted in the country's heritage. It's a time for gathering, expressing gratitude, and relishing a memorable feast.

Legend has it that in 1621, the native tribe in what is now Massachusetts taught English settlers, known as the Pilgrims, to cultivate corn, beans, and squash, aiding their survival through winter. In gratitude for this help and a bountiful harvest, the settlers organized a three-day feast alongside Native Americans. This celebration is considered one of the precursors to the modern Thanksgiving Day in the United States.

You're in the right place if you're gearing up to celebrate in grand style. At Max Warehouse, we understand that food is a crucial aspect of Thanksgiving. That's why this article is crafted to immerse anyone in the essence of Thanksgiving essentials—featuring classic recipes and necessary kitchen products to turn your dinner into an unforgettable event for family and friends.

Traditional dishes

• Turkey: the centerpiece, typically prepared by cleaning and drying the bird, seasoning it with herbs, butter, or oil, and slow-roasting. Some stuff it with a mix of bread, herbs, veggies, and occasionally nuts; others prepare the stuffing separately to prevent the turkey from drying out.

• American cornbread: sweeter and fluffier than regular bread, this biscuit's preparation is straightforward—mix and bake, no need for fermentation.

• Mashed potatoes: a classic side for turkey, made by boiling and mashing potatoes mixed with salt, butter, and milk.

• Cranberry sauce: a sweet sauce made from these fruits. Prepare it by cooking the berries with sugar and sometimes adding orange zest or juice for a citrusy touch. This sauce perfectly complements the turkey's flavor.

• Gravy: made from the turkey drippings, flour or cornstarch, and broth. Typically poured over turkey or mashed potatoes.

• Roasted vegetables: brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, buttered corn, or roasted veggies are excellent sides for this dinner.

• Pecan pie: the traditional Thanksgiving dessert. Its base comprises butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and salt; the filling contains a mix of beaten eggs, toasted and chopped pecans, maple syrup, cane sugar, and vanilla extract. Pumpkin and apple pies are also popular for this celebration.

• Beverages: this dinner often pairs with sparkling wines, apple cider, or champagne, along with the traditional eggnog.

Additionally, before the meal, it's common for each person to share something they're grateful for. Family collaboration is also widespread, with some handling complex dishes like the turkey while others manage sides and desserts, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and family tradition.

Have you gathered everything for your dinner preparation?

To ensure a perfect meal, several kitchen utensils are necessary. Here's a list of what you might need. 

• Cookware set: sets including pots and pans of various sizes are handy for cooking potatoes, vegetables, sauces, or other foods that require boiling or roasting.

• Baking trays: these will be used for the turkey, vegetables, and other dishes baked in the oven.

• Thermometer: essential for ensuring the turkey is thoroughly cooked. The Taylor Instant Read Digital Thermometer, with its compact folding design, digital display, and ability to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius, is a great option.

• Knife set and cutting board: different knives will make it easier to cut various ingredients, and the cutting board protects your kitchen surfaces.

• Electric mixer: essential for blending ingredients, especially for making mashed potatoes or pastry mixes.

• Containers: These are not necessary for dinner preparation but are useful for storing leftovers after the event.

Cooking a delicious dinner requires a multitude of utensils, and in this article, we have listed some of the most critical ones that can ensure the success of your meal. However, if you still need to include any of these essential kitchen tools, don't worry! At Max Warehouse, we have you covered. You can find all the necessary kitchenware products to complete your dinner and make it truly mouth-watering.