Title: Emeril and E.J. Lagasse Continue Their Heartwarming Thanksgiving Tradition (Exclusive)
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Legendary chef Emeril Lagasse and his son, E.J. Lagasse, recently revealed their heartwarming Thanksgiving tradition that involves a unique coin-toss to determine who will take charge of preparing the festive meal each year. The close-knit father-son duo shared insights into their cherished family ritual during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the 2025 Food & Wine Classic held in Charleston.
For the Lagasse family, the annual decision of who will cook the Thanksgiving feast goes beyond a simple volunteer-based selection. Instead, the tradition involves a formal coin toss where heads signify Emeril as the head chef, while tails designate E.J. as the culinary maestro for the day. As 22-year-old E.J. disclosed to PEOPLE, the roles can sometimes shift throughout the day, with both chefs working together to create a memorable meal.
The coin-toss ceremony has grown to become a significant part of their holiday celebrations, with established rules and a set date for the event. Revealing the details, E.J. explained that the toss occurs on a specific Sunday before Thanksgiving, ensuring consistency in ingredients and dishes regardless of the outcome. The Lagasses emphasise the importance of maintaining culinary traditions while adding their own flair to the festive menu.
While the decision of who will cook may vary each year, the Thanksgiving spread in the Lagasse household typically features classic dishes like turkey and ham, along with a special addition of E.J.’s grandmother’s cherished Portuguese-style stuffing. E.J. expressed his excitement at the prospect of preparing these beloved dishes, highlighting the significance of family recipes in their Thanksgiving traditions.
Emeril Lagasse mentioned that their celebrations often incorporate elements of both tradition and innovation, with a mix of classic dishes and themed culinary experiences. While Thanksgiving is dedicated to traditional favourites, Christmas Eve signifies a seafood extravaganza reminiscent of the Feast of Fishes, while Christmas Day is reserved for classic offerings like ham and roast beef. The Lagasse family values both routine and creativity in their holiday feasting.
Looking ahead, E.J. Lagasse, who now leads the acclaimed Emeril’s flagship restaurant in New Orleans with two Michelin stars, shared insights into the future milestones he envisions. With the restaurant approaching its 40th anniversary, E.J. reflected on past achievements and the continuous strive for culinary excellence. Emeril reiterated the importance of constant improvement, focusing on refining their craft and creating memorable dining experiences for patrons.
As the culinary world eagerly anticipates the Lagasse family’s upcoming festive creations, the bond between Emeril and E.J. shines through their shared passion for food and culinary heritage. Their Thanksgiving coin-toss tradition symbolises not only a fun way to decide the chef for the day but also underscores the spirit of togetherness and collaboration within their family.
In conclusion, the Lagasse’s Thanksgiving tradition serves as a heartwarming reminder of the joy and camaraderie that come with sharing meals with loved ones during the holiday season. Through their culinary expertise and devotion to family traditions, Emeril and E.J. Lagasse continue to inspire both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike with their unwavering dedication to creating memorable dining experiences.