Turkey is the iconic symbol for Thanksgiving, and has been the traditional main course served at this sumptuous feast every year. However, not everyone enjoys the taste of turkey, regardless of how it’s prepared. If you’re looking to expand your taste buds this year, but still want to enjoy a large family meal, there are several alternative main dishes for your Thanksgiving Day meal that will be just as tasty and crowd-pleasing as an original roast turkey. Consider one of these dishes to serve your hungry dinner guests this year.
Guinea Hen
A whole guinea hen is a good main dish for a couple, or small get-together. One guinea hen typically serves two people, and has a flavor that tastes like a cross between chicken and pheasant. A young guinea hen is best when slow roasted, and an older bird is best when cooked in a crock pot or casserole. Joyce Farms say it is great roasted whole or braised with a good stock and wine. Add all the same flavorful cooking ingredients, like stuffing and sage, to the small bird and serve with all your other favorite Holiday side dishes for a meal that’s sure to please.
Pork Roast
A large pork roast surrounded with all the trimmings is a sure crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving dinner. Pair with roasted red potatoes, winter squash, and your favorite cooked apple recipe and your guests will wonder why they ever ate turkey in the first place. Use a crown of pork, pork loin, or pork roast as a turkey alternative.
Roast Beef
A top or bottom round roast is a budget-friendly beef alternative that will be a welcome sight on the Thanksgiving dinner table. Make homemade gravy, whipped potatoes, green bean casserole, and candied carrots to complete the feast.
A standing rib roast, prime rib, or beef tenderloin can also be a wonderful (yet more expensive) alternative main dish on Thanksgiving as well.
Roast Chicken
A great alternative main dish for the Thanksgiving meal, and a smaller cousin of the traditional turkey, a roast chicken can be stuffed, smothered with gravy, and served with all the same side dishes at any family dinner, including the Thanksgiving feast.
Roast duck can do anything turkey or chicken can do as well, and is another main dish alternative idea to consider.
While roast turkey may be the traditional main dish on Thanksgiving, it’s not the only thing that can be served. Eat whatever you and your family likes on this famous feast day, just try to save room for a slice of your favorite pie too.
