The Turkey has Been Dethroned.

A MOUTH-WATERING GUIDE TO THANKSGIVING SIDES WITH RECIPES FROM BON APPETIT

Declared by me at this moment in history, the item amongst the Thanksgiving spread that has always reigned supreme has finally lost its title – the monarchy ruled by turkey is over. The true head of royalty is not even a singular item, but a genre, per se. You can keep your status quo and nostalgic hand-turkey designs, but I will be frank: sides are superior. For our omnivorous friends, the turkey has always been the center of attention. I get it, I do. The whole roast looks impressive. You may even stuff a duck inside of a chicken inside of a turkey.

Perhaps you fry it. It’s truly an event. This time around, let’s dig into the new oligarchy ruled by sides.

POTATOES

Year-round, this tuber vegetable is so versatile, but on the fourth Thursday of November, the masses mash it. You can make this a potato party by providing any combination of accoutrements: sour cream, chives, cheese, chili oil, or bacon bits. Your best potato for a dreamy, creamy finish will be Russet or Yukon Gold. Classically boil then add in the goods: garlic-infused milk of choice, creamy varietals, butter, and herbs.

https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/ultra-creamy-mashed-potatoes

Image Courtesy: @betterhomesandgardens on Instagram

SWEET POTATO

Sister to the mash, this is a dessert disguised as a side dish that I will unashamedly enjoy. Go crazy and top your casserole with candied pecans, brown sugar crumbles, and toasted marshmallows. If you want to go savory, slice and roast, toss them in sage brown butter, and sprinkle with toasted nuts. Try this simple, hassle-free take,

@thecafesucrefarine

https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/twice-roasted-sweet-potatoes-with-hot-honey

GREENS

It’s only common courtesy to break up the starch fest with something green. Opt-out of the traditional green bean casserole and try something cleaner like sautéed French green beans or roasted brussels sprouts tossed in a maple vinaigrette. A cold and acidic kale salad would break up the warmth if you wanted more of a variety. For you traditionalists that want to put a spin on things, go for this: https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/green-beans-and- mushrooms-with-crispy-shallots

Image Courtesy: @flora_and_vino on Instagram

CORN

There is nothing easier than one-potting cream cheese, butter, salt, pepper, a bit of sugar, and calling it a day. It’s a breath of fresh air on an otherwise chaotic day. Switch up your creamed corn by making esquites or a roasted corn salad, if you’re missing a touch of spice: https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/no-brainer-corn-salad

GRAVY

Gravy is non-negotiable if you choose to whole-roast a turkey, as this method is prone to a painfully dry bite. Fabricate the turkey beforehand for an even, tender roast. Regardless of the status of the former king, the mash is also on the table, and you need that gravy. If you want one that packs a punch sans pan drippings, go the mushroom gravy route. If a turkey is on your menu, this is your friend, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/why-is-it-so-good-gravy

MAC N CHEESE

Not to be cheesy, but who wouldn’t die for an ooey-gooey serving of a mac made with love? Famously topped with breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch, this side dish is underrated and essential. The beauty of this dish is that you can sub in any cheese you want, and add any crunchy toppings if desired, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/stovetop-mac-and-cheese

Image Courtesy: @sugarspun_sam on Instagram

BREAD

Rolls, biscuits, muffins, and cornbread are just a handful of options that can fill your breadbasket. Whether you pick up a box of Jiffy or bust out your scale and make a mean batch of dough, this carb is not a skip. If you’ve got the time, this riff on parker house rolls is worth your attention, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/pull-apart-sour-cream-and-chive-rolls

STUFFING

Some may believe stuffing is heaven-sent, while others don’t even bat an eye. Whatever your stance, there are countless variations to make it appeal to your taste. Go sweet or savory, spicy or salty, with sausage or without. Corn shines through once again in this popular recipe, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cornbread-stuffing-with-sausage-and-corn- nuts

CRANBERRY

In classic Americana fashion, opening a can of prepared cranberries and pouring the contents into a pretty dish is the extent that most go. This unsung hero can shine, though, so pick up a bag of fresh cranberries and surprise your guests. Citrus and a bit of spice make this cranberry sauce a must-try, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/cranberry-sauce-with-orange-and-cinnamon

BONUS

This section is dedicated to any ethnic or cultural sides that make their way onto the traditional American table. That’s the picture-perfect root of Thanksgiving: coming together and appreciating the culture of the natives and the pilgrims. In my Cuban family, the bonus side each year, without fail, is fluffy white rice topped with black beans and pickled red onion. Try this easy recipe for a fun, acidic addition and a pop of color:

https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/quick-pickled-onions

Image Courtesy: @thecottagejournal on Instagram

Have no shame in needing to unbutton an article of clothing after a meal as good as this. Channel your inner artist this year and make an unapologetic masterpiece of a plate; you deserve it.

Strike Out,

Writer: Gabriella Hernandez

Editor: Allie Christie

Tampa