Halloween is over you know what that means! No, not a time to start listening to “All I Want for Christmas is You,” by Mariah Carey. But a time for turkey and most importantly the sides that accompany the star of the show, the Mistys and Brocks, to the Ash Ketchems. Sometimes the supporting cast outshines the main character, so here’s some appreciation for the Thanksgivings sides.
Mashed potatoes
A true classic that could shine on its own and goes great with anything, the perfect sumptuous combination of potatoes, milk, and butter. its simplicity allows this canvas to be elevated with new flavors such as cheese, bacon, and a favorite roasted garlic. Although it’s not everyone’s immediate favorite, no one is skipping the potatoes. A tier.
Salad
Another side that you’re probably going to see at any dinner spread, thanksgiving or otherwise. It’s an amazing splash of color to your mostly brown plate. Although it’s not everyone’s immediate choice of side, it’s a nice pop of acidity to complement its heavier counterparts. All in All although it’s not everyone’s first choice, you will definitely find it on everyone’s plate for a nice change of pace and flavor. C tier.
Stuffing
To me this is one of the “Thanksgiving exclusive” sides, Of course, it can be seen year-round, but there’s something about the combination of bread and vegetables flavored with the stock of a bird that screams “Thanksgiving” to me. However, due to all the moisture it’s surrounded by, the end product usually ends up as mush. Although the flavors are warm and cozy the texture that results is that of baby food. Although it may be a Thanksgiving classic, you typically don’t see it around for much else and there’s a reason for that. D tier
Sweet potatoes
A relative of the potato, how could this be a bad side? Normally it comes in 2 forms either cut up and baked or boiled and mashed, but one thing remains the same, the amount of sugar added. If you have wondered why sweet potatoes and why one of the most popular dishes is called “Candied Yams,” that’s because of the amount of sugar added. That being said is the thought of sugar and calories in mind during Thanksgiving? Absolutely not, it’s one of the best sides forming a sweet and salty combination with anything on the plate. B tier.
Green bean casserole
It sounds much healthier than it really is, the classic version is something reminiscent of wartime rations put together, to make a not-so-bad combination of flavors and textures. Traditionally it’s canned green beans and canned cream of mushroom soup, baked for a while and topped with fried onions. It ends up as another textural issue ending up as much on your plate only green this time. D tier.
Cranberry sauce
Is it a side? Doesn’t matter it’s always seen at the Thanksgiving table so I’ll count it as one. It goes great on turkey offering a pop of bright citrusy flavor to the bird. The sauce is an appetizing deep red color. Although the thought of a jam with meat may seem weird, once the flavors of the turkey and the sauce meld together, it’s like you’ve opened your eyes for the first time. Its only detriment is that it’s too overpowering by itself. B tier
Gravy
This “side” if you can call it that can single-handedly make your entire plate so much better. Made with the excess juices from the bird and additional seasonings. A good gravy can save a dry turkey, providing it with the necessary moisture and flavor that the bird lacks almost way too often. A tier.
This Holiday season brings many great… and not-so-great sides. which ones will you be reaching towards?
