Was There Pumpkin Pie At The First Thanksgiving
If you think of Thanksgiving, one of the first things that come to mind is pumpkin pie. It's a classic dessert that families enjoy on this holiday. But, was there pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving? Let's explore the history and see if this delicious dessert was present at the first Thanksgiving feast.
The First Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims, who were the first English settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They had arrived in America the year before, and after a long and harsh winter, they were finally able to harvest crops with the help of the Wampanoag tribe. To celebrate their bountiful harvest, they organized a feast that lasted for three days.
The Menu of the First Thanksgiving
While the exact menu of the first Thanksgiving is not known, historians believe that the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe ate foods such as venison, turkey, fish, lobster, clams, berries, and various vegetables such as pumpkins, squash, and corn. These foods were most likely prepared using traditional Native American cooking methods.
The Origin of Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a dessert that has become synonymous with Thanksgiving. It is made from pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and a blend of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The first recorded recipe for pumpkin pie was published in 1651 in a cookbook called "The English Huswife" by Gervase Markham. However, this recipe did not include a crust.
The First Pumpkin Pie Recipe
The first recorded recipe for pumpkin pie with a crust was published in 1675 in a cookbook called "The Accomplish'd Lady's Delight" by Hannah Woolley. This recipe called for a pastry crust filled with spiced pumpkin and baked in a hot oven. However, it is not clear if this recipe was actually made at the first Thanksgiving feast.
Pumpkin Pie at the First Thanksgiving
While there is no concrete evidence to suggest that pumpkin pie was present at the first Thanksgiving feast, it is possible that the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe ate pumpkin in some form. Pumpkins were a staple food of the Native Americans and were used in a variety of dishes.
The Evolution of Pumpkin Pie
Over time, pumpkin pie became a popular dessert in America, especially during the fall season and Thanksgiving. The recipe evolved, and different variations were created. Today, pumpkin pie is a beloved dessert that is enjoyed by many families on Thanksgiving.
In Conclusion
While it is not confirmed if pumpkin pie was present at the first Thanksgiving feast, it is possible that the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe ate pumpkin in some form. Pumpkin pie has evolved over time and has become a staple dessert of Thanksgiving. So, make sure to enjoy a slice of pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving, and remember the history and traditions behind this delicious dessert.