“Discover the Surprising Dishes That Fueled the First Thanksgiving Feast!”
So, if you’re curious about what they actually ate on the first Thanksgiving, here’s the real menu, from roasted venison to wild berries. You might find a few surprises here that could inspire a new addition to your own Thanksgiving table.
1. Venison
One of the dishes at the first Thanksgiving was venison, brought by the Wampanoag. The Wampanoag hunters arrived with five freshly hunted deer, which was a generous gift, considering food wasn’t always easy to come by.
Venison roasted over an open flame provided much-needed protein for the Pilgrims and symbolized the Native people’s hospitality. This was more than a dish; it was a gesture of trust and friendship.
2. Fowl (Duck, Goose, Possibly Turkey)
While turkey is now the star of Thanksgiving, the original feast likely featured other birds as well. Wild ducks and geese were common game, and it’s possible that turkey made an appearance, too.
These birds were roasted or boiled, served alongside other wild fare. The Pilgrims would’ve relied on the Wampanoag’s hunting skills to gather this part of the meal, a true blend of resources from both cultures.
3. Fish
Fish, especially cod and bass, were abundant along Plymouth’s coast. The Wampanoag taught the Pilgrims how to catch fish and even how to use them as fertilizer to improve crop yields.
It’s likely that fish was grilled or boiled, adding another protein source to the meal. This dish was a direct result of the Pilgrims learning essential skills from their Native hosts.
