Thanksgiving has a way of evolving with time. For me, it’s a holiday steeped in memories of my Gen X childhood and transformed by the simplicity of adulthood. To honor this season, I’m making an Amaretto Sour, a cocktail that perfectly complements both the nostalgic and modern sides of Thanksgiving.
What’s in an Amaretto Sour?
The Amaretto Sour is a sweet and tangy drink that’s been a classic for decades. With its almond undertones and bright citrus notes, it’s a perfect companion for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Amaretto
– 3/4 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lemon juice
– ½ oz simple syrup
– ½ oz egg white
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to a shaker and dry shake for 15 – 30 sec.
- Add ice to the shaker.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over ice.
- Garnish with a cherry and a lemon wheel.
Now that we’ve got the cocktail ready, let’s talk Thanksgiving traditions.
Thanksgiving Then: A Gen X Extravaganza
When I was a kid, Thanksgiving was a grand event. Every three years, we’d gather with my father’s side of the family. Picture this: 15 aunts and uncles, 14 cousins, and my grandparents hosting it all. It was chaos in the best way.
The house would be bursting with people. Kids ran around, adults cooked in every corner of the kitchen, and the dining table seemed endless. Thanksgiving meant turkey, mashed potatoes, pies, and stuffing—enough to feed an army (which we basically were).
Thanksgiving Now: A Quiet Affair
These days, Thanksgiving looks very different. Mrs. Dad Drinks and I keep it simple. Sometimes, we’ll go out for a nice meal; other times, we’ll cook something small at home.
Our day usually starts with the Macy’s Parade, just like in childhood. But now, we follow it with the National Dog Show and our favorite Thanksgiving movie, Best in Show. Instead of a bustling house filled with relatives, it’s just the two of us—and maybe a cocktail like the Amaretto Sour in hand.
The quiet is refreshing. It’s a chance to reflect, enjoy each other’s company, and savor the holiday at our own pace. While I miss the big family gatherings, I’ve come to appreciate these intimate celebrations.
Cheers to Thanksgiving Traditions
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, no matter how you celebrate. Whether it’s a crowded house or a cozy table for two, the memories you create matter most. The Amaretto Sour ties it all together—a drink as versatile as Thanksgiving itself.
So, as you plan your holiday, consider mixing up an Amaretto Sour. Sip it while watching the parade, catching up with loved ones, or relaxing after the feast. Cheers to Thanksgiving, past and present, and to the stories that make it special.
