Tomorrow is America’s secular holiday (perhaps they’re all secular now, but Thanksgiving started out that way, not being based on a biblical event). Even its subdued religious roots (giving thanks to whom, after all?) are buried under a mountain of food, some parades and a boring football game or two. I guess the truly secular holiday is Black Friday, but how restive or contemplative is that?
So what are your plans for it?
Ours are to do some food prep before lunch (trimming and peeling of many vegetables), then take a walk, perhaps over at Pipers Creek where salmon can reliably be seen spawning this weekend, followed by the cooking and eating for which the day is renowned.
The Menu:
Cranberry/orange sauce (the first thing I make and what starts the whole process for me: 30 years it’s been that way)
Orange/orange carrots (you people in Atlanta can get these at Agnes & Muriels)
Parsnips (baked in stock, butter, salt and pepper)
Vegetarian shepherd’s pie (tofu, onions, soy sauce, chopped walnuts, topped with a rich gravy and mashed potatoes, and baked)
Salmon — grilled, most likely
Green beans — steamed until crisp
Fresh bread — makes the meal
Pecan pie (store-bought)
Pumpkin pie (home-made)
Leave your favorite menu items in comments.