What Other Meats Can Accompany Turkey? A Thanksgiving and Christmas Feast Guide

Chances are you’re a tax-paying, lawn-mowing, shower-taking adult. You lead a well-organized life and are aware of the practice of sandwiching cheeses and meats between two slices of bread.

When I was a lifeguard years ago, the majority of us were fairly young and hadn’t quite figured life out. We were tax-paying for sure, but mowing lawns and taking showers were few and far between.

People used to always ooo and ahh over these sandwiches that I would bring to eat during my break. Maybe you’re in the same kind of season in your life and could use some sandwich suggestions. Well I’m here to help!.

Planning a festive feast for Thanksgiving or Christmas? While turkey is often the star of the show, you might want to consider serving another meat alongside it to please diverse palates and offer a wider variety of flavors.

Here’s a look at some delicious meat options that pair well with turkey, along with insights from online discussions to help you choose the perfect complement for your holiday table:

Thanksgiving Meat Alternatives: Beyond the Bird

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving and looking for a secondary meat dish to complement your smoked turkey here are some ideas inspired by the Food52 community:

  • Roast Duck: This festive option offers a rich flavor and beautiful presentation. You can grill it for added smokiness or roast it in the oven.
  • Dungeness Crab: A regional favorite in California, Dungeness crab is a delicious and celebratory alternative to turkey.
  • Beef Tenderloin: This elegant and flavorful cut is relatively easy to prepare and sure to please your guests.
  • Prime Rib: This classic roast is a showstopper with its juicy, flavorful meat.
  • Venison Ragu: If you can source venison, this hearty and flavorful ragu makes a unique and seasonal addition to your Thanksgiving feast.

Christmas Meat Pairings: Festive Flavors for Your Turkey

Looking for a meaty companion for your Christmas turkey? Mumsnet users have shared their favorite options:

  • Ham: A Christmas classic, ham is a versatile and delicious choice. You can serve it hot or cold, and it pairs beautifully with turkey and other holiday flavors.
  • Beef: A crowd-pleaser, beef offers a variety of cuts to choose from, like a slow-roasted leg of lamb, a flavorful roast beef, or a juicy ribeye steak.
  • Pork: Whether you choose a succulent pork loin roast or a crispy pork belly, pork adds a savory touch to your Christmas table.
  • Chicken: A lighter option, roasted chicken is a simple yet satisfying choice that pairs well with turkey and other festive dishes.
  • Ham and Gammon Pie: This leftover-friendly dish combines the delicious flavors of ham and gammon in a comforting pie.

Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Meat Pairing:

  • Consider your guests’ preferences: Do you have any vegetarians, vegans, or individuals with dietary restrictions? Choose a meat that everyone can enjoy.
  • Think about the overall menu: Ensure your chosen meat complements the other dishes you’re serving, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try new recipes and explore different flavor combinations to find your perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a meat that you and your guests will enjoy. With these ideas and tips you’re sure to find the perfect companion for your turkey, creating a memorable and delicious holiday meal.

The best turkey sandwich

I believe quality of ingredients is what really makes a sandwich. Here, I use a whole wheat hoagie roll because it keeps its shape well and allows for excessive ingredient stacking. Regular sandwich bread could be used, but I can’t promise that the flavors would blend perfectly or that the bread wouldn’t collapse under the filling’s weight.

I also used deli turkey off the bone, but a smoked turkey breast would also be great. Warm or cold, toasted in a panini press or oven for a few minutes, this turkey sandwich tastes great.

what other meat goes with turkey

Do you put mayo on a turkey sandwich?

Of course, this is a sandwich, so everything I use is optional. I actually don’t eat mayonnaise, so I always leave that off, but can appreciate its value for others.

Ground Meat and Veggies Recipe! Do this with your Ground Beef or Turkey. Absolutely Delicious!!!

FAQ

What meat goes with turkey for Christmas?

Ham and Gammon What’s Christmas without a joint of ham? Delicious both hot and cold, gammon is versatile, tender and perfect for a Christmas dinner.

What is a good Thanksgiving alternative to Turkey?

Pork is another great Thanksgiving alternative to turkey, because it’s juicy and flavorful. So many beautiful holiday dinner ideas to choose from! Pork Roulade: This pork roast is stuffed with a savory sausage stuffing for a turkey alternative that still screams Thanksgiving! It’s beautiful, herb-y, and flavorful.

Can one have turkey and carrots?

Eating turkey and carrots is part of healthy habits. The turkey has meat like chicken and is another healthy poultry option. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, it is a source of vitamin A, fiber, potassium and vitamin B3.

What kind of stuffing goes well with Thanksgiving turkey?

This stuffing is a great way to elevate your Thanksgiving turkey. The addition of sausage and apples give the stuffing a delicious flavor and the perfect texture. The taste of this stuffing is out of this world. The sausage and apples complement each other perfectly, and the herbs give the stuffing a beautiful flavor.

Which meats should one avoid?

You should limit or avoid processed meat products such as sausages, salami, pate and beefburgers, because these are generally high in fat and salt. Also limit meat products in pastry, such as pies and sausage rolls. Choose lean cuts, if you are buying pre-packed meat, check the nutrition label to see how much fat it contains and compare products. Prepare turkey and chicken without the skin, as these are lower in fat (or remove the skin before cooking).

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