The state of Georgia is known for many things, but food is certainly one of its main exports. You do not have to hail from Georgia to enjoy some of its finest foods, and the Thanksgiving Day holiday is the perfect time to whip up some of your favorite southern recipes.
Chances are a few of these southern-inspired recipes are already on your Thanksgiving Day list. Many of the most popular Georgia dishes made their way to the rest of the country many years ago. Other Georgia recipes may be a bit less familiar to your northern neighbors, but this year is the perfect time to add them to your Thanksgiving Day table.
Here are some of the best Georgia Thanksgiving Day recipes and inspirations. Feel free to put your own spin on these favorite dishes as you prepare them for your own friends and family members.
Deep Fried Turkey
There are lots of ways to cook the perfect turkey, but more and more Georgia residents are cooking their birds in the great outdoors. The warm fall temperatures make outdoor turkey deep frying practical, but be sure to follow all safety precautions to avoid getting burned.
Be sure to thaw the bird completely before placing it in the deep fryer. Allow three minutes per pound plus five minutes to give the bird a deep golden skin that melts in your mouth. After trying this Georgia tradition, you may never roast a turkey again.
Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is a Georgia holiday tradition, and no Thanksgiving is complete without a big slice of pie and a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. Every Thanksgiving Day chef has his or her own special recipe, and Georgia residents spend the weeks leading up to the holiday in search of the perfect nuts and other ingredients.
If you are traveling to another part of the country for Thanksgiving, do yourself (and your friends) a favor by bringing a fresh pecan pie. You might want to bring an extra one as well, since everyone will want some to take home.
Cornbread in a Cast Iron Skillet
No Georgia Thanksgiving is complete without a thick slice of cornbread slathered in rich creamy butter, and there is no better way to make that cornbread than in a cast iron skillet. The flavor of cast iron cornbread is indescribably good, and it is something your guests will be talking about all year.
Making cornbread in a skillet is simple and easy. Just set the oven to 425 and place the skillet in the oven while you mix up the ingredients. Whisk together 1-1/4 cups cornmeal, ¾ cups flour, ¼ cup sugar, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 cup buttermilk, 1/3 cup whole milk, 8 tablespoons melted butter and 2 lightly beaten eggs. Coat the heated skillet with melted butter and bake for 20 to 25 minutes to enjoy the best cornbread in the state of Georgia.
Thanksgiving is all about fun and food, and Georgia residents are experts at both. Whether you are a Georgian visiting your northern family members or hosting your own Thanksgiving feast, these time-tested recipes will make your table more festive.