For many, Thanksgiving is one of the best times of the year; families gather together, share delicious dishes, and spend time with one another. It may bring images of a glistening stuffed turkey and gravy poured over mashed potatoes to mind, but with the United States being home to immigrants, it is no surprise that many families prefer fixing foods native to their own countries and cultures.
Italian cooking is known worldwide for its use of pasta and savory sauces, both of which are incorporated into Thanksgiving dishes. A popular choice for people all across the world is lasagna, a dish that even picky eaters can enjoy. Ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, along with ground beef and sausage are found in many Italian dishes, and they all play a key role in what makes these dishes so enjoyable. Not only are these ingredients extremely versatile, but they also provide a healthy and filling meal to guests.
Latin dishes are also a popular choice for many. Pumpkin empañadas, a perfect blend of American tradition with Mexican roots, are made in place of pumpkin pie. Chile is a key ingredient in many Latin dishes, and many families enjoy incorporating it into their turkey rubs, adding additional ingredients like cilantro and lime to the mix before marinating the turkey overnight.
Asian cuisine is also known to incorporate a large variety of spices and oils. Pork ribs can be braised and soaked in vinegar in place of the traditional American turkey; crispy chicken wings drizzled with soy and sesame sauces are another popular dish. This cuisine also offers many vegetarian options, including kabocha squash and roasted cauliflower, both of which can be turned into side dishes. Noodles are an essential part of many main dishes, such as garlic noodles served with napa cabbage or red curry paste.
Despite the many different cultural dishes and foods from around the world, many still appreciate the traditional American foods that this season brings to the table. Several dishes even vary from state to state; Arizona and New Mexico residents prefer to make more rice-based dishes, while those that live in the Southern states tend to fall back on sides such as creamy mushroom gravy or macaroni and cheese. Similarly, desserts tend to vary across the United States, with key lime pie being a Florida favorite while Kentucky favors derby pie, made with chocolate and walnuts.
Indigenous families also enjoy their fair share of Thanksgiving dishes, although they might be different compared to the traditional dishes one might suspect, with ingredients like squash, wild rice, and turnips more commonly used. Indigenous dishes also opt for seafood, such as roasted trout and baked salmon, and bison meat rather than the traditional meats offered at most American dinners.
Regardless of where one lives or what foods one enjoys, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather together with family and friends to enjoy traditional favorites or add a new dish to the mix.