Michael Symon’s Top Picks for Underrated Holiday Meats

As the holiday season gears up, it’s easy to fall back on the classic turkey. But chef Michael Symon thinks there’s room for more variety at the table.

At the New York Wine and Food Festival, Symon shared his thoughts on exploring less common meat options that bring both flavor and festivity to holiday meals.

“I think turkey is underrated after Thanksgiving,” Symon said. “Obviously, everybody eats it on Thanksgiving. I think capon is an underrated one also.” Symon also highlighted game meats, adding, “My father-in-law used to be a big hunter. So any of the game, I think, is very underrated.”

Capon, a rooster with extra fat for tenderness, makes a rich, juicy alternative to traditional poultry. Its flavor and texture are perfect for a holiday roast, offering a taste that’s as luxurious as it is memorable.

Game meats like venison or wild boar are also fantastic choices for adventurous cooks. Their hearty flavors are a natural fit for holiday spreads, with venison’s lean, bold taste pairing wonderfully with cranberry chutney, blending European traditions with an American twist.

Wild boar, known for its slightly sweet flavor, brings a rustic warmth to dishes when paired with cornbread stuffing. Its rich, dark meat introduces a taste of Southern comfort to the holiday table.

Game meats aren’t just about expanding flavor horizons—they carry cultural ties, symbolizing age-old traditions and a connection to the land.

Introducing these meats into holiday menus doesn’t just shake things up; it brings a bit of culinary nostalgia and adventure, as Symon suggests, offering something both timeless and new.

So, this season, consider trading the familiar for something extraordinary and let these underrated meats shine.

If you’re interested in unique holiday meat options and flavors, visit our homepage for more delicious ideas and recipes.