The mere thought of a Thanksgiving meal can make any sane person salivate on command. Those iconic dishes that we look forward to all year are finally within reach. For some, nothing beats grandma’s mashed potatoes served up at her very own dining room table. Many others choose to dine out on Thanksgiving to lessen the burden of cooking such an elaborate meal or to simply see what crazy ways chefs interpret the classics.
Before you get any zany ideas to create the next Thanksgiving phenomenon like a turducken, be sure to consider your customer. Are they expecting the most perfectly executed traditional meal? Are they looking for some modern twists on the classics? Or are they looking to have their mind blown by the most inconceivable concoctions? If your guests fit into the last category, these creative dishes can certainly serve as inspiration.
As soon as autumn is barely upon us, the food world explodes into all things apple and pumpkin spice. So, it should come as no surprise that a few wacky items come out in the mix. Jones Soda Company is known for making some unexpected flavored sodas, but their Tofurkey and Gravy Soda just might take the cake. While you may not be ready to add this to your menu just yet, a holiday inspired drink could be exactly the wow factor you are looking for.
Another great way to reinvent Thanksgiving dishes is by formulating some new way to mix different dishes together. Chef Amy Wisniewski created the Turkey Dinner Layer Cake using layers of stuffing and turkey frosted with mashed potatoes. L.A. based baker Yummy Cupcakes took the iconic turkey, gravy, and cranberry flavors and whipped them into a cupcake. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating winning Thanksgiving combinations.
We all know Thanksgiving dinner is as much about the meal as it is about the leftovers. If you are looking to set yourself apart from the rest this holiday season, consider creative ways to use leftovers. The Bonsai Bistro in Idaho crafted a leftover sushi roll that included turkey, stuffing, and green beans. The number of sandwiches created from Thanksgiving leftovers is probably too high to count. Then there is the leftover pizza which could even replace the actual meal.
Incorporating a bit of creativity on your Thanksgiving inspired menu this year can help guests embark on a culinary adventure. Give them something to be grateful for, a unique experience only you can provide.