Up until the fourth grade, I genuinely thought that everyone ate the same Thanksgiving meal that I did. The foods we served on Thanksgiving were such a tradition in my household that I never thought much of it until I overheard my classmates talking about what they were having for their Thanksgiving dinners. Every dish they mentioned sounded foreign to me, such as casseroles, dressing, green beans, cornbread and even pie. There are some common elements between your typical Thanksgiving meal and a Hispanic one, but we put our own twist on it. Here are some of the types of food we serve at thanksgiving.
1. We have corn tortillas instead of biscuits, but sometimes we have both!
Not having tortilla --, more specifically corn tortillas -- would be a disgrace at our Thanksgiving table. Have you ever had a turkey taco? If not, you should most definitely try it. Also it would be a crime if we didn't serve flaky biscuits at our Thanksgiving dinner.
2. Salsa (not the dance)
There has never not been salsa at a meal in my household. Whether it be salsa verde or salsa rojo, it's always in the middle of the table or closest to my father. Salsa isn't just for chips; there are different types of salsa for every occasion and meal, including Thanksgiving.
3. Jello instead of Pie
There is always some type of jello assortment at any Hispanic party, and Thanksgiving is no exception. It's not just your regular, run-of-the-mill jello either; it includes sweet condensed milk, which makes the jello taste better.
4.Tamales
If you ever go to a Thanksgiving dinner that serves authentic tamales, then you've hit the jackpot! This is the type of dish that you wish you had at every Thanksgiving meal. Tamales are the Mexican equivalent to casserole dishes. There are different types of tamales, just like casseroles, but the best ones come with cheese -- especially if it has cheese and pork with a little spice to it! I have only had tamales during Thanksgiving a handful of times, but when I see it on the table it's like Christmas morning.
5. Guacamole
Need I say more? Who needs a fancy platter of various types of cheeses and crackers when you can have a dip of guacamole? The best part is, guacamole doesn't cost extra because it's homemade. It's something to get the party started as well as to hold the family off until dinner is ready.
6. Family
Besides all of the savory dishes, family is the best thing about Thanksgiving. I think all types of cultures can attest to that. It is a time to be thankful for the people around you. Blood related or not, anyone can be your family.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
