It’s harvest time! 5 local foods to celebrate Thanksgiving
To celebrate Thanksgiving in style, take a deep dive into the unique world of local flavours. Here are five foods you can source locally to serve at your table and delight your guests.
Click for larger images
1. Turkey
Whether farm raised or wild, the turkey is undoubtedly the focal point of the Thanksgiving feast. To create a delectable centrepiece for your dinner, roast it in the oven or deep fry it American style in a pot of oil.
2. Squash
Take advantage of autumn's gentle onset to visit your farmers' market and pick up the finest squash. Choose from buttercup, butternut, delicata, acorn squash or a selection of various gourds to add colour and flavour to your soups, salads and more.
3. Cranberries
These small, red berries are packed with countless health benefits. In addition to being homegrown, they play a key role in the local food economy. Use them as an ingredient in a sauce to serve with poultry. You can also add them to your festive cocktails and mocktails.
4. Root and stem vegetables
October is the time when turnips, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes and all their cousins reach the peak of their flavour. Whether you’re cooking them into a creamy soup or roasting them on the grill, these vegetables are always a hit.
5. Orchard fruit
To top off your feast, why not bake a delicious apple pie or a pear clafoutis? Vendors have displays overflowing with fresh, juicy local fruit. Enjoy it while you can, because the season is fleeting!
This year, go big on your Thanksgiving celebration with locally grown foods from producers with a heart for their harvest.