As most Americans know, the first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621, when settlers and Native Americans sat down for a three-day feast in celebration of goodwill.
Ever since 1863, when Abraham Lincoln officially set the final Thursday in November as Thanksgiving, it has filled our minds (and stomachs) with visions of turkey, potatoes, turnips and pies. Contrary to popular belief however, turkey played a very minimal role in the first Thanksgiving.
Although there is no official record of the menu served during the most famous meal of the 17th century, historians have
suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods. Being that this festival took place in a coastal area, historians believe that seafood played an important role in the first Thanksgiving meal. It is likely that much of the menu consisted of
fish and shellfish, including, lobster, mussels, clams, oysters and bass.
Because the Pilgrims had no oven and the Mayflower's sugar supply had diminished by the fall of 1621, the meal did not
feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which along with turkey, have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations.
Based on research by the
Calorie Control Council, "the average American may consume more than 4,500 calories and a whopping 229 grams of fat from snacking and eating a traditional dinner with turkey and all the trimmings". The
Food Research and Action Center reports that, "two-thirds of U.S. adults are overweight or obese", that totals 154.7 million Americans age 20 or older, according to the
American Heart Association.
We may be 392 years apart from the first Thanksgiving celebration, but it doesn't mean that we need to be bound to the conventional standards. While turkey may have become a Thanksgiving staple, in New England, lobster and other shellfish are frequently served alongside the bird. If that sounds up your alley, you should stop by your local fish market and bring a little of the sea to your Thanksgiving table (and maybe enjoy a more historic meal).
For this holiday season's kick off, we decided to go with a healthier menu option, Charred Texas Fiery Sweet Shrimp; this can be served as an appetizer or a side. If you're looking to make this, don't forget to use fresh
Ecuadorian Blue Foot White Shrimp, you'll sure leave your guests asking for more!
