Thanksgiving Food Traditions across America

November 23 2011 by Mike Mason

iStock_000004723851XSmall.jpgWhile it's usually a given that most families across America will be enjoying turkey this Thanksgiving, there are some regionally distinct Thanksgiving foods you may not be aware of. Depending on what part of the country you reside in, these unique dishes can range from fried Southern fare to classic Italian favorites.

With many people traveling to different regions for the holiday, we examine some of what you can expect at the dinner table this Thanksgiving, wherever you may be.

East Coast
Going to the Big Apple for Thanksgiving? If you like Italian food you may be in luck. Many Italian-American families on the East Coast celebrate Thanksgiving with ravioli con la zucca (pumpkin ravioli), lasagna and even Italian sausage and mozzarella stuffing.

Midwest
Thanksgiving in this region tends to be traditional and hearty, but there are some dishes that lean specifically Midwestern. Much of the Midwest is home to families of German, Hungarian and Scandinavian descent and this can be reflected in some of the Thanksgiving foods. There's lefse (potato based bread) or goulash (Hungarian based dish) and even Lutefisk which is a salted or dried fish usually served around Christmas but can also be served on Thanksgiving as well.

South
Southern food tends to be thought of as comfort food and down home cooking, which seem to fit perfectly with any Thanksgiving feast. What could possibly make a Thanksgiving turkey any more delicious than it already is? Why a deep-fried Thanksgiving turkey, of course! The idea of deep frying a turkey has swept the nation but most agree that it originated in the South. For dessert, a popular dish is Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie which sounds about as comforting as food can get.

Southwest
The Southwest has some of the most authentic Mexican style food this side of the border and that spicy inspiration can certainly make it into a Thanksgiving meal. How about a Chile-Rubbed Turkey with Tequila-Spiked Pan Gravy?

Wherever you may be traveling to this Thanksgiving, if given the opportunity, be sure to indulge in some of these regional delicacies!

Do you have any holiday food favorites that are specific to your region? Tell us about them in the comments section below.

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