Whether you’re a Millennial (ages 18-30) or a Baby Boomer (ages 45- 64), everyone celebrates the most treasured meal of the year with many of the same Thanksgiving traditions.
However, a new Butterball® survey reveals generational differences in cooking methods, activities and flavors. For example, while three quarters of all generations said they prefer traditional recipes, 60 percent of the Millennial generation said they are also looking for new, experimental recipes to help contemporize their Thanksgiving meal.
“Whether it’s first-timers or veteran cooks preparing the Thanksgiving feast, we support all cooks and embrace how every generation puts their own spin on the most celebrated meal of the year,” said Mary Clingman, director of the Butterball® Turkey Talk-Line.® “That’s so much of what America is all about – constantly adding to traditions to give them new life and meaning.”
Starting November 1, 2010, Clingman and the 50 experts at the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, which is celebrating its 30th year, will be available at 1-800 BUTTERBALL to help cooks of every generation enjoy their Thanksgiving traditions and share tips on how to make this year’s meal special.
Here are some Thanksgiving dinner suggestions based on generational preferences uncovered in the survey:
Serve Up a New Kind of Turkey:
While all generations agreed that a traditional roasted turkey is tops, Millennials and Gen Xers (ages 31-44) said they are also looking to try different turkey cooking methods. One in seven Millennials and Gen Xers reported deep frying, smoking or grilling their turkeys on Thanksgiving.
This year, consider making two turkeys – one traditionally roasted and one fried, smoked or grilled – to please all guests’ palates. Also, add a kick to your roasted turkey by experimenting with new flavors such as a chipotle flavored gravy, chipotle-spiced cranberries, or try Butterball’s savory Roast Turkey with Spicy Dry Rub recipe.
Don’t Try to Cut Calories:
Across the board, all generations said they do not want to trade in their favorite indulgences for lighter fare on Thanksgiving. Less than seven percent of Americans consider including healthier recipes in their Thanksgiving menu.
For a decadent treat, indulge in Butterball’s Praline Topped Apple Cranberry Bread Pudding with warm Butter Rum Sauce.
Bring Something to the Table:
More than half of Boomers, the group most likely to host Thanksgiving, will ask their guests to bring a dish to contribute to the feast. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish, try a new take on a classic.
For instance, Butterball’s Sweet Potato Bar offers a contemporary twist and features a variety of toppings, including mini marshmallows, toasted pecans, Butterball® Turkey Bacon, coconut and more.
