Thanksgiving is a time to share and give thanks, making it the perfect opportunity to explore Thanksgiving foods around the world. Dishes like Ethiopian Doro Wat or Cuban congri can complement traditional turkey and stuffing, creating a flavorful and diverse spread that celebrates global tastes.
Fun fact: The first Thanksgiving wasn’t about feasting; it was intended as a day of fasting, and turkey wasn’t even on the menu!
Let’s explore these international culinary traditions to inspire your Thanksgiving spread.
Quintessential American Spread
The holiday table in the U.S. features traditional Thanksgiving dishes like turkey, pumpkin pie, and corn, with turkey standing as a timeless symbol of abundance. Pumpkins, with their deep orange hues, represent prosperity and joy. Corn, a staple gifted by Native Americans, appears as cornbread, porridges, or even table décor. These classics embody the holiday’s origins, grounding the celebration in tradition and history.
Sweet & Spicy Braised Turkey from Korea
A rich caramelized glaze from soy sauce, cranberry sauce, garlic, and ginger gives your turkey a Korean-inspired flair. The sweet and spicy flavors delight, and leftovers make excellent next-day meals like fried rice or noodles.
Pumpkin Empanadas from Mexico
Pumpkin, already a star of Thanksgiving, takes a flavorful turn in Mexican empanadas. Filled with spiced pumpkin and baked until golden, these pastries evoke the cozy charm of fall. Fresh pumpkins lend a richness that canned alternatives simply can’t replicate. Serve these treats as a dessert or snack to capture the essence of Thanksgiving recipes by country.
Also Read: Things to Do on Thanksgiving
Beans and Rice from Cuba
Congri, a Cuban classic, blends beans and rice with the aromatic spices of garlic, cumin, and oregano for a burst of flavor. It’s a satisfying, economical choice that fits any menu. For health-conscious diners, substituting white rice with brown creates a wholesome version of this Latin American classic, perfect for balancing richer Thanksgiving dishes.
Hasselback Potatoes from Sweden
Sweden offers a visually striking take on baked potatoes with its Hasselback recipe. Thin slices create an accordion shape, crisping beautifully in the oven. These potatoes, finished with a golden crust of buttery breadcrumbs and Parmesan, are both simple to make and irresistibly elegant. Perfect for intimate gatherings, they bring flavor and charm to your Thanksgiving spread.
Doro Wat from Ethiopia
Add a bold twist to your Thanksgiving spread with Ethiopia’s Doro Wat. This spiced chicken stew, slow-cooked with aromatic cardamom, berbere, and ginger, served over tangy injera, will delight adventurous palates and warm the evening.
Lasagna from Italy
Lasagna might not be traditional, but its layers of pasta, ricotta, and savory sauce make it a universal favorite. It’s perfect for families who want a comforting alternative to turkey. Pair it with a crisp salad and garlic bread for a balanced, multicultural Thanksgiving meal.
Why Explore Thanksgiving Foods Around the World?
Thanksgiving is a perfect moment to celebrate diversity and discover new traditions. Including global dishes in your feast adds richness to the celebration and honors the cultures they come from. Whether it’s a Korean turkey, Cuban congri, or Mexican empanadas, every dish tells a story of gratitude and community. Celebrating with global Thanksgiving celebrations ensures your table is as inclusive as your gratitude.
Take your Thanksgiving feast on a global adventure. Blend flavors, exchange tales, and craft cherished memories with those who matter most. After all, food is the universal language of connection.
Which global dish will you add to your menu this year? Let’s make Thanksgiving a celebration of flavors and cultures!
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