Roast Turkey Plucked This Thanksgiving, transport your family and friends back to the opulent era of the Gilded Age with a sumptuous menu inspired by authentic recipes and cooking tips from The Gilded Age Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from America’s Golden Era, authored by the esteemed food writer and historian, Becky Libourel Diamond. In this exquisitely crafted cookbook, Diamond seamlessly blends easyto-follow recipes, artistic flair, and historical insight, offering readers a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary world of the Gilded Age. Gilded Age Thanksgiving celebrations were marked by sophistication and a focus on decor and elegance. Harvest-themed decorations adorned dining rooms, featuring autumn leaves, chrysanthemums, asters, dried grasses, and grains. Fresh fruit arrangements, piled high on silver or pewter platters and embellished with vines and grape clusters, served as stunning centerpieces. The ambiance was enhanced by soft candlelight and the warmth of a glowing fireplace. The meticulous prepara-8- | SEASONS EATINGS ~ 2023
tions mirrored our modern-day Thanksgiving rituals, with dishes like puddings and mincemeat made well in advance to allow flavors to meld. Striking a balance between old and new traditions, the hostesses of the Gilded Age were advised never to experiment with a new recipe without prior testing. A departure from the customary presentation, the Gilded Age introduced the à la russe style of dining, with meals served in multiple courses. The feast typically commenced with oyster soup or bouillon, followed by roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry jelly. A palate-cleansing sorbet preceded the next courses, featuring chicken pie, stewed
corn, mashed potatoes, and squash, followed by celery, wafers, and cheese salad. Desserts were served in two parts, with Thanksgiving pudding, pumpkin pie, cake, and ice cream followed by a final course of fruit, bonbons, and nuts. Coffee, a cherished conclusion, was often served in the parlor. Thanksgiving in the Gilded Age was a time for multigenerational gatherings, where children and adults came together in grand fashion. Special arrangements were made for children, including a dedicated space adorned with colorful chrysanthemums and a miniature version of the adult table. Their separate platter featured a turkey, accompanied by an abundance of nuts, ap-
