THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
Everyone celebrates Thanksgiving differently, and although the Turkey remains the centerpiece for most American celebrations, a new poll from YouGov US shows just how much variety there when it comes to creating a Thanksgiving feast.
The poll asked 1300 Americans to pick their favorite Thanksgiving dishes during a series of head to head match ups between two different items of food. The number of times a dish won a matchup was then tallied to create its percentage. For example, Turkey came out on top, winning 83% of its matchups.
Other popular dishes in the top three included Mashed Potato, which won 78% of its matchups, and Stuffing or Dressing, which won 77% of its head-to-heads. The top ten was completed by Bread or Rolls (74%), Ham (67%), Scalloped Potatoes (66%), Sweet Potatoes or Yams (65%), Gravy (64%), Green Beans (64%) and Macaorini and Cheese (52%).
YouGov US also looked at the matchups based on the region of America where respondents lived. Although turkey came out top in every region, Mashed Potatoes were tied for first place in the Midwest and in the West. The poll found other regional preferences. For example, in the West, Tamales, Glazed Carrots, Soup, Beef and Tofu were all 6% or more higher than their national rating. In the South, there was greater interest in Turnips/Turnip Greens, Stuffing or Dressing, Macaroni and Cheese, Collard Greens and Broccoli Casserole. In the North East, Fruit Salads were rated 14% higher than on the national basis, while Beans and Rice, Rice, Broccoli, Soup, Mixed Vegetables and Salad were also more popular. In the MidWest, alongside Mashed Potatoes, Deviled Eggs, Chicken and Jell-O also ranked higher than on a national basis.
Wherever you are, and whatever you choose to eat, have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Full results of the YouGov survey can be found at today.yougov.com/topics/food/articles-reports/2020/11/24/most-popular-thanksgiving-dish-poll
