Thanksgiving Goes Global With Side Dishes from Around the World

By Carl Hanson
September 15, 2020
Credit: bd.weld

This year we're taking Thanksgiving on a global adventure. True, Thanksgiving is America's original Fall Classic, typically celebrated with time-tested, traditional foods and familiar flavors. But think of it. Back in the day, the pilgrims who arrived in this strange New World were introduced to many unknown foods and exotic flavors. So this Thanksgiving, we're recreating that initial sense of wonderment by taking traditional Thanksgiving dinner in the other direction — and introducing exciting side dishes from the Old World into an otherwise familiar Thanksgiving repertoire. Come along.

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Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes

Credit: Greg Scheidemann
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Mascarpone is the pride of Lombardy, Italy. A little mascarpone in the mashers is "a delicious alternative to regular mashed potatoes," says Chef John. "They're not too rich, but just rich enough, and perfect for any special occasion."

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Chestnut Stuffing

Credit: Allrecipes Magazine
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Now here's a truly old-school stuffing. Fun fact: In Europe, chestnuts were an important source of carbohydrates before potatoes came to the continent in the 16th century. 

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Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Credit: Jackie Neese
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This Italian offering combines the best of both worlds. "A new and yummy twist on gnocchi," says ELA33INE. "Pair this up with butter or your favorite alfredo sauce."

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Grammie's Cranberry Salsa

Credit: Aurelia Traub
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It's tangy, it's sweet, and it's got a kick that really wakes up the palate.

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Spanish Green Beans and Tomatoes

Credit: SunnyByrd
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"A traditional Spanish side dish that I've served on holidays for many years. But it's a simple, tasty dish anytime!" — jed

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Hasselback Potatoes

Credit: bd.weld
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"This Swedish dish takes its name from Hasselbacken, the Stockholm restaurant where it was first served," says POMPIER850. "The seasoned potatoes turn out crisp on the outside and tender on the inside."

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Filipino Lumpia

Credit: Kim's Cooking Now
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"This is a traditional Filipino dish," says LILQTPINAY23. "The Filipino version of egg rolls. It can be served as a side dish or as an appetizer."

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Real Homemade Tamales

Credit: pelicangal
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Tamales are a traditional Mexican treat for special occasions. They're a time commitment. But they freeze well. Make them in advance, and thaw them for the big meal.

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Pork and Shrimp Pancit

Credit: Angela F.
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"A traditional Pancit taught to me by a Filipino friend while stationed overseas," says Rayna Jordan. "Delicious and easy!"

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Chinese Steamed Buns with Meat Filling

Credit: coco
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Add some Chinese dim sum to Thanksgiving dinner. "The filling is best if allowed to rest in the refrigerator overnight," says Carol chi-wa Chung.

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Bonus: Roast Peruvian Turkey

Credit: Chef John
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We couldn't forget the centerpiece dish! This Thanksgiving turkey celebrates the uniquely American holiday with flavors familiar to anyone who knows Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken. The key to this roast turkey is the magical marinade — a flavorful wet rub starring garlic, paprika, cumin, oil, and vinegar. The wet rub develops a gorgeous crust that really locks in juices. The bird emerges from the oven super moist and flavorful. Watch the video to see how to make an amazing gravy with pan drippings, chicken stock, jalapenos, cilantro, crème fraiche, and lemon juice.

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By Carl Hanson