At the center of the table, the turkey claims its spot as the king of not one, but two, holiday dinners. Both Christmas and Thanksgiving meals feature this bird as its main course, surrounded by a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and casserole. It has been a cornerstone of American culture for almost the lifespan of the United States. But how has this iconic bird risen to such fame and renown, becoming a symbol of holiday cheer?
The turkey itself is entirely native to North America. Turkeys were being domesticated by the Aztecs for years, where they were not only farmed for meat, but for their feathers, which were used to adorn ceremonial headdresses and garments. When the Spanish colonized Mexico, they brought back with them the turkey, which was a new and exciting food item for the rest of the Europeans, who, due to miscommunication, thought that this new bird came from Turkey, giving it its name. By the 16th century, the turkey had established its place as the centerpiece of royal dinners and lavish banquets. When English colonists reached America, they found that turkeys were abundant and large enough to feed a crowd, so it became the most sensible meat for Thanksgiving dinners.
But how did it worm its way into Christmas dinner? Before the rise of turkey, the main Christmas meal in England was goose. But later, turkey took its place as the main meal, because of its efficiency and abundance. One of the factors in Its rise in popularity is Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which featured the turkey as the main dish and solidified its spot as the main Christmas bird.
But what makes the turkey itself such a popular main dish? Does it even deserve its popularity? Opinions on the validity of turkey are varied and controversial. While many love the iconic bird, many state that the turkey is overrated, being dry and flavorless meat. Some replace the turkey with ham or some other meat as the main dish.
Another controversial opinion stems from the ethical concerns surrounding the mass production of turkeys. Factory farming practices, including overcrowded conditions, hormone treatments, and inhumane slaughter methods, have sparked outrage among animal lovers. For some, eating turkey for the holidays implies a disregard for animals, with many suggesting plant based alternatives
Some people also feel that the tradition of eating turkey has become too commercialized. They believe it’s less about family and tradition and more about selling a large bird for the holiday meal. As more people choose different diets, the role of turkey in holiday meals is being questioned, with some suggesting we should explore other foods that are better for the environment
Suri Coleman (11) states that “turkey is completely overrated. I can only ever eat it with gravy, and I only ever eat the sides anyway. It does smell amazing though.”
Emerson Dalba (10) says that “it does not deserve to be the main dish of the two most important holidays of the year, not counting Halloween. I really like them as an animal though. They’re super smart.”
Laurel Cowgill (12) says, “I personally don’t like turkey at all. It’s too dry, I don’t know how anyone eats it without gravy. Honestly, I think the star of the show is dinner rolls, the superior dish”
Despite the controversial opinions surrounding turkey, it remains a holiday staple. Whether that be because of tradition or just the inconvenience of changing it, the turkey does not seem to be moving from its position as the main holiday meal anytime soon.
