Why is it traditional to eat turkey for Christmas dinner? The origin is more curious than it seems

Summary
Turkey has become a tradition at Christmas dinner due to its historical origin, initially linked to abundance and gratitude during Thanksgiving and later symbolizing status and celebration in Europe and around the world.

The Christmas period is marked by big parties and family gatherings. To accompany the celebrations, as with any party, of course, good food is essential. And one of the most popular dinner items around the world is undoubtedly the Christmas turkey.

The habit of eating turkey on a special evening has consolidated over time, becoming a tradition. The bird, of North American origin, was domesticated in the Mexican region more than a thousand years ago. In 1621, it became a holiday dish when English and Native American settlers served it on the first Thanksgiving. Thus, delicacy became associated with abundance and gratitude.

Later, the popularization of this delicacy in Europe occurred following the Spanish colonization in Mexico. Brought to the Old World by the Spanish, it became synonymous with status and power for being able to feed many people on a continent where its production was rare. The food was even served at banquets for the nobility of King Henry VIII. Before turkey, as unusual as it may seem, the meat eaten by royalty was wild boar.

In the 20th century, historians say, increased production made turkey cheaper and more accessible. However, the dish was already included in traditional end-of-year festivities as a symbol of abundance and, in this way, began to be appreciated by families from different social strata.

Over time, chefs and culinary enthusiasts have developed various recipes and techniques to make the preparation more and more personalized, with exotic marinades, unusual cooking techniques and signature seasonings to give even more value to this succulent meat. In Brazil, among the most advanced options, the most notable are roast turkey with orange sauce, smoked and stuffed with bacon and sausages or dried fruits and nuts. To accompany it, the farofa is essential.

However it is prepared, the time of serving Christmas turkey is unique, magical and a rite of passage. It is even eaten the next day, because of the desire aroused by the abundant and tasty meal. A toast and bon appetit!