14 Thanksgiving Foods that Start with U

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the letter “U” might not spring to mind as a cornucopia of culinary options.

However, nestled within this underexplored alphabetical territory lies a universe of unique and unorthodox dishes that can add an unexpected twist to your holiday table.

From the savory umami flavors that can enrich traditional recipes to unusual desserts like ube pie with its vibrant hue, foods that start with “U” offer a chance to update and uplift your Thanksgiving feast.

Letter U Thanksgiving Foods List

In this article, we delve into a variety of “U”-starting ingredients and dishes that might just become new favorites for your family’s annual celebration.

1. Udon Noodles

Thick and chewy, udon noodles offer a delightful change of pace as a Thanksgiving starter. Served in a savory broth, perhaps infused with autumnal herbs and mushrooms, they provide a comforting and warming beginning to the feast.

2. Ugli Fruit Salad

This bright and cheerful salad features the unique ugli fruit, known for its sweet and tangy flavor. Tossed with other seasonal fruits and dressed with a light honey vinaigrette, it brings a splash of tropical sunshine to the Thanksgiving table.

3. Ukrainian Borscht

Add a splash of color to your holiday spread with Ukrainian borscht. This hearty beet soup, with its deep red hue, is both eye-catching and satisfying. A spoonful of sour cream on top creates a beautiful contrast and adds a creamy touch.

4. Upside-Down Cake

Rethink the traditional Thanksgiving desserts with an upside-down cake featuring seasonal fruits. Whether it’s apple, cranberry, or pear, this cake promises a moist and fruit-forward treat that will invert expectations in the most delicious way.

5. Uthappam

Venture into global flavors with uthappam, a South Indian-style pancake made from a fermented batter of rice and lentils. Topped with finely chopped onions and tomatoes, it’s a savory pancake that can be paired with a tangy coconut chutney.

6. Umami Gravy

Elevate your gravy game by crafting a sauce that’s rich with umami flavor. This savory gravy, made with a base of mushrooms or soy, will complement your turkey and mashed potatoes with a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

7. Ube Pie

Make a statement with an ube pie, whose bright purple filling is not only visually stunning but also delicious. The sweet and nutty flavor of ube, a type of purple yam, is a wonderful end to a Thanksgiving meal.

8. Ugali

Bring a piece of African culinary tradition to your table with ugali, a starchy side made from maize flour. Its mild flavor and thick, doughy texture make it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of stews and vegetables.

9. Unleavened Bread

Simplicity is beauty with unleavened bread. This easy-to-make flatbread is perfect for scooping up gravy or enjoying with a selection of Thanksgiving dips and spreads.

10. Ugli Fruit Curd

For a twist on the usual cranberry sauce, offer an ugli fruit curd. Its bright, tart flavor and creamy texture can be a delightful spread on morning scones, a sweet addition to brunch, or an inventive filling for a Thanksgiving dessert tart.

11. Unreal Candies

Treat your guests to a sweet surprise with Unreal Candies. These delightful confections are a healthier twist on classic holiday sweets, made with less sugar and more natural ingredients. They’re perfect for a light dessert or as a sweet snack throughout the day.

12. Utz Potato Chips

For a casual appetizer or snack that’s sure to please, serve Utz Potato Chips. These crispy, classic chips can be paired with a variety of dips, from creamy onion to tangy cranberry salsa, adding a satisfying crunch to your Thanksgiving snacking options.

13. Ultra Beer

For those who appreciate a lighter brew with their meal, offer Ultra Beer. Its crisp and refreshing taste makes it an easy-drinking choice for your Thanksgiving gathering, complementing the rich flavors of the traditional holiday spread.

14. Unsweet Tea

Serve a pitcher of unsweet tea for a refreshing, low-calorie beverage option. It can be enjoyed as is, for those who prefer a less sweet drink, or customized with a range of sweeteners and lemon or herbs like mint, to cater to all tastes.

What Thanksgiving food starts with a U?

In the spirit of Thanksgiving—a holiday that embraces both tradition and the joy of discovery—it’s clear that even the less celebrated letter “U” brings its own unique flair to the festive spread.

Whether it’s through the incorporation of udon as a warming starter, the sweet surprise of an ube dessert, or the crisp crunch of Utz potato chips in a snack platter, these “U” foods enrich the holiday experience.

As we give thanks for the bounty before us, let’s also express gratitude for the culinary diversity that encourages us to explore and savor new tastes and textures, making every Thanksgiving not just a meal, but a memorable journey of flavors.