Canadian Thanksgiving Must-Haves.
As the crisp, cool air settles in across the great white north, Canadians eagerly await the arrival of Canadian Thanksgiving celebrations. This beloved annual tradition, falling on October 14th in 2024, is a cherished opportunity for families and friends to come together and revel in the bounty of the autumn harvest.
We are inspired by tradition and simplicity this harvest season. Here is a glimpse into the food and wine pairing recommendations we have planned for our upcoming thanksgiving dinner.
Candied pecans, figs, fragrant thyme, earthy rosemary, and rich, creamy butter are just a few of the items that will be put to good use in our kitchen. Upon our guests arrival, our table will be adorned with a simple yet elegant charcuterie board, showcasing - tangy blue cheese, cranberries, sweet candied pecans, savory salami, salty prosciutto, and briny olives.
As we make our way into the main event of the evening, the centerpiece of the meal, of course, will be the traditional roasted turkey - its golden skin glistening with a generous coating of butter infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary, thyme, lemon, and garlic.
Accompanying this showstopper will be turkey gravy, velvety mashed potatoes laced with garlic and thyme, and a vibrant medley of oven-roasted vegetables tossed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Our signature fall salad makes its highly anticipated return to the menu. Featuring a blend of mixed greens and peppery arugula, adorned with sliced red onion, halved red grapes, earthy beets, crunchy candied pecans, and crumbled blue cheese, all dressed in a simple yet elegant olive oil and fig balsamic vinaigrette. And to round out the feast, a classic stuffing will add a comforting, savory touch to the meal.
As the last bite of our thanksgiving dinner is savored, we will then turn our attention to the sweet finale. Dessert will be a true celebration of Canadian culinary traditions, with a friend's homemade apple pie paired with the creamy richness of Marianne's vanilla bean ice cream, as well as the iconic maple-infused pecan butter tarts. To accompany these indulgent treats, the table will be graced with a simple yet sophisticated cheese plate, featuring nutty mimolette, creamy brie, honey and sweet fig jam, all complemented by an array of nuts, dried fruit, and crackers.
Dessert Wine Pairing Recommendations:
2007 Vista D'oro Fortified Walnut Wine 2022 Spearhead Riesling
2015 Pondview Cabernet Franc Icewine
And to truly cap off the evening, all will raise a glass to the season, sipping on Canadian wine, Canadian Maple Whiskey, and the decadent sweetness of traditional Canadian Ice Wine. Santé!
