Thanksgiving is one of the major holidays in the United States–a time to gather with loved ones and reflect on the many things you have to be thankful for, while also indulging in an array of delicious foods and drinks. The food varies from the infamous roasted turkey to the sweet and delicious pumpkin pie. Everyone has a favorite dish that captures the essence of this beloved holiday. Below are the favorite dishes among some college students here at Southern Nazarene University.
The dish that is a favorite of SNU senior Emmanuel Obinna is anything savory that his family cooks, such as turkey and ham. “My family always does a good job cooking the proteins for our Thanksgiving meals. Turkey and ham have always been my favorites since I was younger, but I love everything my family cooks because there’s nothing like a home-cooked holiday meal.” Obinna also spoke of loving traditional holiday sweets such as pumpkin and apple pie.
While turkey is the common main dish at a Thanksgiving meal, there is no limit to what can be considered a traditional Thanksgiving side. Sides include stuffing, sweet potato dishes, vegetable dishes, and even a cranberry sauce.
Senior Donald May’s favorite Thanksgiving dish happens to be a popular Thanksgiving side. “My mom makes really good mac-and-cheese, which I think is a staple for Thanksgiving. I also love homemade mashed potatoes, but to be honest anything my family makes I love and enjoy eating at Thanksgiving.”
While Thanksgiving is about tradition, many unique family recipes may make an appearance for this holiday. For my own family, one of my favorite dishes is unique to my family. My mom always makes a delicious cheese ball dip that you eat with your choice of crackers that my family loves to snack on as we wait for the main dishes to be cooked. She also makes a treat to touch the sweet tooth called “puppy chow,” which is a chocolate, peanut butter, and powdered sugar treat that is also delicious to snack on.
All these dishes are deeply personal and play a role in making the holiday of Thanksgiving extra special for you and your family. They do more than fill your belly; they bring people together. For college students, it offers a break from the campus cafeteria and Chick-fil-A, and an opportunity to build memories around the table with their family and friends. So, as you pile your plate high with your favorite foods, remember that you’re also celebrating togetherness, gratitude, and the comfort of being surrounded by loved ones.
Photo by: Kimalee Cook