Turkey, the quintessential centerpiece of Thanksgiving and countless other meals, is a remarkably versatile protein. While often associated with holiday traditions, its mild flavor and lean profile make it a fantastic foundation for diverse culinary explorations. The key to unlocking turkey’s full potential lies in understanding which flavors and textures complement its subtle character. This guide explores the myriad possibilities of what goes well with turkey, from classic sides to innovative pairings, ensuring your next turkey-based meal is a resounding success.
The Timeless Classics: Thanksgiving and Beyond
When thinking about what goes well with turkey, the traditional Thanksgiving spread instantly springs to mind. These pairings are classics for a reason, offering a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that elevate the turkey experience.
Stuffing: The Heart of the Feast
Stuffing, or dressing as it’s sometimes called, is arguably turkey’s most faithful companion. The possibilities for stuffing are virtually endless, allowing for personalization based on individual tastes and dietary needs. Sourdough bread stuffing with sausage, apples, and cranberries is a perennial favorite, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Cornbread stuffing, particularly popular in the South, provides a slightly sweeter and more crumbly counterpoint to the turkey.
Mushroom stuffing, often incorporating wild mushrooms like shiitake and porcini, adds an earthy and umami-rich dimension. For a lighter option, consider a wild rice stuffing with vegetables and herbs. The key is to ensure the stuffing is moist but not soggy, and that its flavors complement, rather than overpower, the turkey.
Gravy: The Unifying Sauce
Gravy is the liquid gold that binds the entire meal together. A rich, savory gravy made from turkey drippings is the traditional choice, providing a concentrated burst of flavor that enhances both the turkey and the sides. Properly made gravy should be smooth, flavorful, and free of lumps.
Variations include adding herbs like thyme and sage, or a touch of sherry or Madeira for added depth. If turkey drippings are scarce, a chicken or vegetable broth base can be used, but be sure to season it generously to compensate for the lack of turkey flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: A Sweet and Tangy Counterpoint
Cranberry sauce offers a bright and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the turkey and stuffing. Whether homemade or store-bought, cranberry sauce provides a crucial element of acidity that cuts through the richness of the meal.
Homemade cranberry sauce allows for greater control over sweetness and flavor. Adding orange zest, cinnamon, or a splash of port wine can elevate the sauce to new heights. Some prefer a smooth cranberry sauce, while others enjoy the texture of whole cranberries.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile side that pairs perfectly with turkey and gravy. The key to exceptional mashed potatoes is using high-quality potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or Russet, and incorporating plenty of butter and cream (or milk, for a lighter option).
Adding roasted garlic, herbs, or even a touch of Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor profile. Sweet potato mash is another excellent option, offering a slightly sweeter and earthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Green Bean Casserole: A Classic with a Twist
While sometimes debated, green bean casserole remains a popular addition to many Thanksgiving tables. The traditional version, with canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions, is a guilty pleasure for many.
However, there are numerous ways to elevate this classic dish. Using fresh green beans, homemade cream sauce, and crispy shallots instead of canned ingredients creates a far superior version. Adding mushrooms, bacon, or toasted almonds can also enhance the flavor and texture.
Beyond Tradition: Expanding Your Turkey Horizons
While the classic Thanksgiving sides are undeniably delicious, turkey’s versatility allows for endless culinary exploration beyond these traditional pairings.
Roasted Vegetables: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
Roasted vegetables are a simple yet elegant accompaniment to turkey, offering a vibrant array of colors, textures, and flavors. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roast beautifully, developing a caramelized sweetness that complements the turkey’s savory character.
Brussels sprouts, roasted with bacon or balsamic vinegar, offer a slightly bitter and nutty counterpoint. Other excellent choices include broccoli, asparagus, and bell peppers. Tossing the vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and spices before roasting enhances their flavor and creates a more cohesive dish.
Salads: A Refreshing Contrast
A well-composed salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the turkey and other sides. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a light and palate-cleansing option.
More substantial salads, incorporating fruits, nuts, and cheeses, can also pair well with turkey. A salad with apples, walnuts, and blue cheese provides a delightful blend of sweet, crunchy, and tangy elements. A pomegranate and arugula salad offers a vibrant and peppery counterpoint.
Grain-Based Sides: Adding Substance and Texture
Grain-based sides, such as quinoa, rice, or couscous, add substance and texture to the meal. Quinoa, with its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, is a versatile option that can be flavored with herbs, vegetables, or dried fruits.
Rice pilaf, cooked with broth and aromatics, provides a flavorful and comforting side. Couscous, with its light and airy texture, is a great vehicle for absorbing the flavors of the turkey and gravy.
Fruit-Based Salsas and Chutneys: A Burst of Freshness
Fruit-based salsas and chutneys can add a burst of freshness and flavor to turkey, particularly when served as a topping or alongside the meat. Mango salsa, with its sweet and tangy flavor, pairs well with turkey, especially when grilled or roasted.
Apple chutney, with its combination of sweet, tart, and spicy notes, provides a warm and comforting accompaniment. Cranberry-orange relish, a brighter and more acidic version of cranberry sauce, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the turkey.
Sauces Beyond Gravy: Exploring New Flavors
While gravy is the traditional sauce for turkey, there are many other sauces that can complement its flavor. A creamy mushroom sauce, made with a combination of mushrooms, cream, and herbs, provides a rich and savory alternative.
A cranberry-port wine sauce, with its sweet, tart, and fruity notes, offers a more sophisticated twist on cranberry sauce. A chimichurri sauce, made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, adds a bright and herbaceous element.
Regional Variations: Turkey Around the World
Turkey is not limited to Thanksgiving in the United States. Many cultures around the world incorporate turkey into their cuisine, often paired with regional flavors and ingredients.
In Mexico, turkey is often used in mole sauces, complex and flavorful sauces made with chilies, spices, and chocolate. In Italy, turkey can be roasted with herbs and vegetables, or used in pasta dishes. In the Middle East, turkey is often seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and served with rice or couscous.
Exploring these regional variations can inspire new and exciting ways to enjoy turkey beyond the traditional Thanksgiving spread.
Wine and Turkey: Perfecting the Pairing
Selecting the right wine can elevate the entire turkey experience. The key is to choose a wine that complements the turkey’s delicate flavor without overpowering it.
Light-bodied red wines, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, are often a good choice, offering a fruity and earthy counterpoint to the turkey. White wines, such as Chardonnay or Riesling, can also pair well, particularly if they have a slightly sweet or acidic profile.
Rosé wines, with their balanced acidity and fruity notes, can be a versatile option that complements a variety of turkey dishes. Ultimately, the best wine pairing depends on the specific flavors and ingredients of the meal.
The Art of Leftovers: Reinventing Turkey
Turkey leftovers are a culinary treasure trove, offering endless possibilities for creative and delicious meals. From sandwiches and salads to soups and casseroles, leftover turkey can be transformed into a variety of dishes.
Turkey sandwiches, with cranberry sauce and stuffing, are a classic way to enjoy leftovers. Turkey salad, made with mayonnaise, celery, and grapes, provides a light and refreshing option. Turkey soup, simmered with vegetables and herbs, is a comforting and hearty meal. Turkey pot pie, with a flaky crust and a creamy filling, is a decadent and satisfying dish.
With a little creativity, leftover turkey can be enjoyed for days after the initial feast.
Ultimately, what goes well with turkey is a matter of personal preference. Experimenting with different flavors, textures, and cuisines is the best way to discover your own perfect pairings. By understanding the turkey’s subtle flavor profile and considering the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, you can create a memorable and delicious turkey-based meal.
What are some classic side dishes that complement turkey, and why do they work so well?
Classic side dishes that beautifully complement turkey include stuffing (or dressing), mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, and green bean casserole. These options offer a diverse range of textures and flavors that enhance the overall dining experience. The starchy richness of stuffing and mashed potatoes provides a comforting base, while the tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the turkey, offering a refreshing counterpoint.
Gravy, made from the turkey’s pan drippings, adds moisture and intensifies the savory flavor profile. Green bean casserole contributes a contrasting texture and a subtly earthy flavor. The combination of these classic sides creates a balanced and satisfying meal that has become a Thanksgiving tradition for many families.
Beyond cranberries, what other fruit-based sauces or accompaniments pair well with turkey?
While cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving staple, other fruit-based sauces and accompaniments can also beautifully complement turkey. Consider a spiced apple chutney, which offers a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of warm spices. Another excellent option is a roasted pear and ginger compote, providing a sophisticated sweetness and a subtle zing that complements the savory notes of the turkey. Fig jam or preserves can also add a rich and decadent element to the meal.
These fruit-based accompaniments not only add flavor but also visual appeal to the plate. Their sweetness balances the richness of the turkey and provides a refreshing contrast. Choosing fruits with different textures and flavor profiles allows you to create a diverse and interesting culinary experience for your guests.
What vegetables are good accompaniments to a turkey dinner, and how should they be prepared?
Several vegetables pair excellently with turkey, offering a range of flavors and textures to complement the main dish. Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes provide sweetness and earthiness, which balances the savory flavors of the turkey. Green vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans can be sautéed, roasted, or steamed for a fresh and vibrant counterpoint.
When preparing vegetables for a turkey dinner, consider roasting them with herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance their natural flavors. Adding a touch of acidity, such as a squeeze of lemon juice or a balsamic glaze, can also brighten up the flavors and create a more balanced dish. The key is to choose vegetables that offer a variety of colors and textures to create a visually appealing and delicious meal.
What are some non-traditional side dishes that could add an interesting twist to a turkey meal?
For a non-traditional twist on a turkey meal, consider incorporating dishes like butternut squash risotto or a wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries and pecans. These dishes introduce complex flavors and textures that elevate the dining experience beyond the classic Thanksgiving fare. Another unique option is a kale salad with pomegranate seeds and a citrus vinaigrette, offering a refreshing and healthy contrast to the richer components of the meal.
Exploring international cuisines can also provide inspiration for interesting side dishes. For example, a Moroccan-spiced couscous with dried fruits and nuts or a Mexican street corn salad can add a flavorful and unexpected element to your turkey dinner. By stepping outside the traditional Thanksgiving menu, you can create a memorable and exciting culinary experience for your guests.
What types of bread pair best with turkey, and how can they be served?
Several types of bread pair well with turkey, offering different textures and flavors to complement the meal. Crusty sourdough bread is a classic choice, providing a slightly tangy flavor and a satisfying chew. Soft rolls, such as brioche or Parker House rolls, offer a delicate sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the turkey and other dishes. Cornbread is another excellent option, especially for those who enjoy a slightly crumbly texture and a hint of sweetness.
Bread can be served warm with butter or used for making sandwiches with leftover turkey. You can also create croutons from leftover bread to add texture to salads or soups. Consider offering a variety of bread options to cater to different preferences and enhance the overall dining experience. A simple bread basket with a selection of breads can be a welcome addition to any turkey meal.
What beverages complement turkey, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic?
Several beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can complement turkey, enhancing the overall dining experience. For alcoholic options, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais is often recommended as it won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the turkey. White wines like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, with their slightly sweet and aromatic profiles, also pair well. Sparkling wines, such as Prosecco or Champagne, can add a festive touch.
Non-alcoholic options include sparkling cider, cranberry juice, or herbal teas. A homemade spiced apple cider can also be a delicious and warming accompaniment. Remember to consider the other dishes being served when choosing beverages to ensure a harmonious pairing. Offering a variety of options allows guests to select their preferred beverage and enjoy a well-rounded meal.
How can leftovers be creatively used to create new dishes that still complement the flavors of the original turkey dinner?
Turkey leftovers offer a fantastic opportunity to create new and exciting dishes that still complement the flavors of the original meal. Consider making turkey pot pie with leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy. This comforting dish transforms the leftovers into a hearty and satisfying meal. Another option is turkey tetrazzini, a creamy pasta bake with mushrooms, cheese, and, of course, turkey. For a lighter option, try a turkey salad sandwich with cranberry sauce and walnuts.
You can also use leftover stuffing to make stuffing muffins or frittatas. Create a turkey and cranberry quesadilla for a quick and easy lunch. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, consider making potato pancakes or shepherd’s pie. By creatively repurposing the leftovers, you can minimize food waste and enjoy delicious meals that extend the flavors of your original turkey dinner for days to come.