While Thanksgiving has long been synonymous with the iconic turkey taking center stage at the dinner table, surrounded by an enticing array of side dishes, what if you are not a fan of turkey? There is always room for culinary experimentation, especially if you’re feeling adventurous and looking to shake up your Thanksgiving traditions.
We’ve curated a list of 5 Latin main dish alternatives that are just as delicious and will still leave a lasting impression on your guests. Get ready to infuse your Thanksgiving feast with a touch of Latin flair!
1. Pernil
Pernil is a slow-roasted pork dish commonly prepared in the oven and celebrated as a mainstay in Latin cuisine, particularly during festive holidays. The meat is cooked until fork-tender, and its highlight is its tasty and crunchy outer layer, known as the ‘cuero,’ a crispy treat that most Latinos eagerly want. Pernil is packed with a rich infusion of savory flavor, as it’s marinated in a medley of Latin seasonings such as sofrito, sazon, adobo, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Baked Ham
Baked ham, or Jamón, is a standout meat dish in Latin cuisine, particularly beloved during holiday festivities. Its distinct flavor comes from a seasoning blend of cloves, pineapples, cherries, and sugar, giving it a delightful sweetness. As the ham bakes, the sweet pineapple juices seep into the meat, making it juicy and enhancing the overall sweetness. Plus, the vibrant colors of the fruit slices add to the visually stunning appeal of this Latin favorite.
3. Latin-style baked chicken
Latin-style baked chicken is different from your typical chicken. Much like pernil, it undergoes a slow oven-roasting process, resulting in the juiciest baked chicken with a deliciously crispy outer layer. Also like pernil, it is marinated in Latin seasonings like sofrito, sazon, adobo, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, which elevates its flavor to something that all your guests will love!
4. Cuban Mojo Pot Roast
Cuban Mojo Pot Roast isn’t your usual pot roast. Like pernil and baked chicken, it’s slow-roasted in the oven, delivering a savory and flavorful dish with intense tastes. Seasoned with citrus flavors—orange juice, lemon juice, or lime juice—and Latin seasonings like onions, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, it’s one of the tastiest pot roasts you’ll ever enjoy.
5. Sancocho
Sancocho is a traditional Latin stew made with beef, veggies, and Latin seasonings. It is a soup delicacy in Latin cuisine. If your guests have dietary restrictions, try a twist with a Latin vegan version this Thanksgiving. Whether as the main dish for a Latin vegan Thanksgiving or an additional non-meat option for all your guests, it’s made with yuca, plantains, root vegetables, yams, potatoes, corn, and Latin seasonings. While it might not look as visually appealing as the other dishes, it’s packed with flavors and enticing aromas.
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