Thanksgiving with a Tasty Global Twist

Thanksgiving staples, including turkey, pumpkin, and cranberries, don’t have to be served the same way year after year. That’s why we’re excited about these  international takes on some classic favorites.

Helper Snacks

In the days before the holiday, why not roast some pumpkin seeds with different global spice mixes? They’re a savory treat that won’t fill you up as you munch your way through the pre-dinner preparations.

Beverage

For something special to sip, mix apple cider with club soda and chopped fruit for a Spanish sangria-inspired twist.

Main Dish

Chances are you’re going to have turkey—Americans gobble up nearly 50 million of them on Thanksgiving Day! But that doesn’t mean the preparation has to be expected. What would happen if, instead of gravy, you served it with Mexican mole sauce this year? 

Or switch it up and have ham or salmon cooked in a maple glaze be the star. (Thank you, Vermont and Canadian friends!). All you need to do is whisk together a little maple syrup, dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Season to taste, brush it on the meat or fish, marinate for a few hours, and cook as usual.

For a vegetarian dish, we love the idea of throwing those old recipe cards to the wind and getting really creative with this Sri Lankan pumpkin curry.

Sides

When it comes to sides, there’s usually at least one that has a hint of sweetness (think your great-aunt’s yams with marshmallows). But this year, why not mix it up with this sweet carrot pudding from India?

Or instead of wild rice, keep it simple but interesting with a heaping bowl of pearl couscous tossed with a handful of dried cranberries and chopped nuts.

Dessert

Norwegians love their rice porridge at Christmastime, but there’s no reason you can’t enjoy this warm tummy-pleaser at the end of your Thanksgiving meal.  Bonus: It’s light enough that you’ll have room for multiple pieces of pie!

For a petite sweet treat, you can’t get much cuter (or more delicious) than these bite-size Brazilian brigadeiros decorated to look like turkeys.

If you try any of these ideas or come up with your own, share them with us! Tag us at #LittlePassports on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Happy gobbling!