Thanksgiving Celebrations, but Make it Latino!

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite celebrations. Even though it is not a Latin holiday per se, I totally embrace it, though. I mean, what’s not to like about a celebration of being thankful? As Latinos though, we have given this holiday a little edge. Here are some of the most common ways Latinos celebrate Thanksgiving:

1. The turkey in the Latino home will always bring amazing “sazon” (seasoning). That’s what our turkeys are famous for: being  juicy, tender, and well-seasoned alternative to your classic turkey dinner.
2. The stuffing may be different: This turkey may be stuffed with chorizo, ground beef or adobo, whatever gives it that Latino twist and spice.
3. Celebrating with Arepas as a side dish! The simple addition of a bit of pureed pumpkin or butternut squash makes traditional arepas a delicious and seasonally appropriate addition to Thanksgiving dinner. So yummy served with some honey butter.
4. We eat rice instead of mashed potatoes. Latinos love rice and we mix it with everything;  from beans to peas, including carrots, sweetcorn, and fried sweet plantain. You may get rice even for dessert, but rice mixed with milk, sugar, and cinnamon in a delicious arroz con leche recipe.
5. Latin Music:  Expect a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of salsa, reggaeton, bachata and even some rancheras by the end of the night.

The fusion of flavors on Thanksgiving tables is a testament to America’s cultural diversity, and how each family finds its own way to honor both the holiday and their culture. Sharing is caring, and sharing food is even more of an expression of love and connection.

Happy Holidays!