Art and spirituality – two terms that may not immediately spring to mind when you think of Thanksgiving. However, without the culinary arts our celebrations this holiday wouldn’t be the same.
As Thanksgiving approaches, I think first of ‘FOOOOOD’ followed closely behind with ‘PARADES’. My mouth waters as I imagine turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy – all prepared the way my mother and hers before that made the feast. We sit around the table, set with the “fancy dishes”, enjoy the meal and one another’s company. That said, our menu items have expanded to reflect the needs of our growing family and their dietary needs.
This holiday there are many whose menu differs significantly from those passed down. Due to animal rights concerns, food allergies, or dietary restrictions, Thanksgiving meals include a variety of recipes. Thus, the dishes prepared need to be as unique and diverse as the individuals seated at the table.
My range of culinary skill is limited to pasta, grilled cheese, French toast, and hot dogs; not very creative! But my sister, Kym, she loves creating delicious and unconventional dishes all with ease and artistry. She finds excitement and peace in cooking as I do singing or writing. She is an artist – no ifs, ands, or buts about it. I can always count on her to come up with a spin on the classics or recipes I never would’ve never thought of.
This year, the two dishes I’m preparing are the same I’ve made for the past few years (carrot soufflé and green bean casserole) – the only difference from the original recipes is that they will be gluten free. As I give thanks for good food, family, and friends I’ll also be thinking how the culinary arts truly invigorate the spirit and connect us together.
As you gather with loved ones or spend your time and giving spirit preparing meals for those fallen on hard times, may your holiday be filled with love and laughter.
Your turn:
- What are your must-have items for the Thanksgiving menu?
- Do you let your creativity loose in the kitchen?
- Is your Thanksgiving menu a unique one – vastly different from the traditional?
Artistic Spirit Within 
I love to cook and I also love family traditions. My creativity is definitely challenged this year because of being diagnosed with celiac disease.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, it’s all about being grateful and spending time with family and friends.
Have a blessed Thanksgiving!
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It’s my favorite too, Doreen! Fortunately, there are a lot more gluten free products (stuffing, fried onions, gravy, and the like) then there were even 5 years ago. And my dad bakes a regular apple pie and puts some of the mix (without the crust) into ramekins for the GF family members.
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