Since I was around 13 years old, Thanksgiving has held a special place in my life. It's like my Super Bowl. For those in the food writing and related fields, this is our season. Unlike a sports game, there's no winning or losing. As a child of South Korean immigrants, I took on the responsibility of cooking Thanksgiving for my family when I was a teenager. My cousins and I did all the shopping, cooking, and cleaning while the adults enjoyed soju and wine. This role reversal gave our family a new tradition and brought us closer.

Professional Significance of Thanksgiving

Now, as an adult, Thanksgiving is also important professionally. It's my favorite time to be a food writer. In this line of work, we can learn a lot about quirky American history from these dishes we take for granted. By taking a closer look, we can not only cook them better but also understand why we eat them.

Turkey Preparation and Research

Since July, I've been carrying a portable blue ice cooler around the city to transport frozen turkeys from the store to my apartment. When assigned the Food section's turkey column this year, I knew I needed more space. My cooler became a lifeline as I worked on recipes, roasting bird after bird and learning everything about Thanksgiving turkey. Every year at The Times, I spend months researching, reporting, and lugging home heavy groceries to create a new Thanksgiving recipe that honors tradition while adding something fresh. This annual effort is one of the reasons my pants fit a little more tightly in the summer and fall. My cooking skills improve, and my understanding of the world grows.

Family and Tradition

Growing up, Thanksgiving was a time when our family came together in a unique way. The adults would relax while the younger generations took on the tasks of cooking and cleaning. This tradition bonded us and made us feel a part of something new in a new country. Even now, as an adult, Thanksgiving still holds that sense of family and togetherness. It's a time when we can share our love through food and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Cooking and Learning

Through the years of cooking Thanksgiving meals, I've learned so much. Not only about the art of cooking but also about different cultures and traditions. Each turkey I roast is a lesson in patience and precision. I've discovered new techniques and flavors that have expanded my culinary horizons. Thanksgiving has become a time of growth and discovery for me, both in the kitchen and in life.