Thanksgiving Cooking Traditions – Gratitude in Every Dish

Welcome back, everyone! In our last post, we talked about cooking with love and gratitude during Thanksgiving—something I hold dear here at From Scratch Farm. Today, we’re continuing that journey by celebrating the simple joys of Thanksgiving cooking and the way food brings people together. It’s about honoring our traditions, savoring the flavors of the season, and reminding ourselves of the blessings we’ve had.

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude—gratitude for the food on our plates, the people around our table, and the shared moments that create lasting memories. Let’s continue our Thanksgiving tradition with this spirit in mind.

Remembering What We’re Grateful For
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it’s a feeling. It’s the warmth of loved ones gathered together, the laughter that fills the room, and the simple yet powerful act of sharing a meal. When I prepare my Thanksgiving dishes, I like to take a moment to reflect on what I’m thankful for. At From Scratch Farm, our journey of sustainable cooking and farm-to-table goodness is something I am always grateful for. It’s not just about providing food—it’s about creating something meaningful, something that nurtures body and soul.

Cooking with Purpose
This year, let’s focus on the purposeful cooking that makes every meal special. When we prepare our Thanksgiving dishes, we’re not just following recipes—we’re sharing our love and care. Every time I roll out a pie crust or baste the turkey, I think about the people who will enjoy it, and that fills the cooking process with joy.

The tradition of farm-to-table cooking reminds me of the effort, love, and intention that goes into each ingredient. The pumpkins for the pie, the fresh herbs for the turkey, the vegetables for the sides—all of these have been grown with care. Thanksgiving is a celebration of that journey, from farm to feast.

Making the Holidays Gluten-Free and Inclusive
At From Scratch Farm, we always aim to make our meals as inclusive as possible, because everyone deserves a seat at the table. This means making gluten-free options and ensuring there are dishes that accommodate different dietary needs. One of my favorite parts of the Thanksgiving meal is the gluten-free pumpkin pie—rich, creamy, and full of fall spices, but without the gluten, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

Cooking with intention also means considering how we can make each dish special for everyone who will share in the meal. Whether it’s a soy-free stuffing, a beautiful gluten-free pie, or a roasted turkey bursting with flavor, we make each dish a reflection of our love and care for those around us.

Creating Traditions in the Kitchen
Thanksgiving cooking isn’t just about the final meal; it’s about the process. It’s about the laughter that comes with accidentally spilling flour, the warmth of the oven, the scent of herbs and spices, and the feeling of connection. One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is baking pumpkin pie with family. We take turns rolling out the pie crust, and there’s something so heartwarming about sharing that task. It reminds me of how food connects generations—the recipes passed down, the stories shared over cooking, and the traditions kept alive.

Recipe Highlight: Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie
Here’s my go-to recipe for gluten-free pumpkin pie—a classic dessert that’s rich in flavor and perfect for ending the Thanksgiving feast on a sweet note.

Ingredients for Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold

• 1/4 cup lard, cold

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 4-5 tbsp cold water

Instructions for Crust:

1. In a bowl, mix the gluten-free flour and salt. Cut in the butter and lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Beat the egg, then add it to the flour mixture, stirring until combined. Gradually add cold water, 1 tbsp at a time, until the dough just comes together.

3. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Ingredients for Filling:

• 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp cardamom

• 1/2 tsp ginger

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp clove

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions for Filling:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust and press it into a pie pan.

2. In a bowl, mix the fresh pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and clove.

3. Beat in the eggs, then stir in the heavy cream until smooth.

4. Pour the filling into the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set. Let cool before serving.

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate all the things we’re grateful for—the people we love, the food we share, and the memories we make together. By cooking with love and intention, we bring that gratitude into every bite, transforming a meal into something meaningful and full of heart.

This year, let’s cook with love, share with gratitude, and savor every moment spent with family and friends. From our kitchen at From Scratch Farm to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! May your holiday be filled with love, warmth, and the joy of good food.