There are a variety of Thanksgiving suggestions and recipes available on the Internet and social media these days, which may make the chore of preparation seem a little daunting. The first thing that springs to mind for people unfamiliar with Thanksgiving, such as Turks, is a big family scenario seated around the dining table, featuring roast turkey and a vast assortment of finger-licking-good delicacies. Thanksgiving, a national holiday profoundly ingrained in American and Canadian culture, derives from ancient harvest festivals held wherever crops are harvested. This festival, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November every year, is a moment for individuals to express their appreciation for the benefits that make their lives worthwhile. Celebrating Thanksgiving in a foreign nation, particularly one where the holiday does not exist. You may not have family members or a friend group to genuinely joyful the event. If you are fortunate enough to host a Thanksgiving celebration with your friends, finding, the appropriate materials may be the next challenge. Before you look at our alternative Thanksgiving dishes, keep in mind that you can find Thanksgiving culinary goods at supermarkets and charcuteries in Istanbul's Nişantaş, Bebek, Levent, and Etiler areas. Cheeses, olive oils, butter, salad dressings, juices, and many more things shipped from the United States are available to homesick ex-pats. You can even go to caterers that offer ready-made Thanksgiving dinners, such as Vanesserie in Bebek. Those who do not want to make a Thanksgiving meal can take advantage of a special buffet menu at
Sahan Mezopotamian, in Auburn Road. Needless to say, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner includes a stuffed roast turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie for dessert. However, you still have time to create delectable sides to complement the roasting turkey. Here are some ideas from both outside and Turkey:
1. Herb-roasted sweet potatoes
Combine the potatoes, olive oil, thyme, garlic, pepper, and salt in a mixing bowl. Place the marinated potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Cook for 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Place on a platter and serve.
2. Steamed Carrots with Olive Oil and Lemon
Remove the carrot tops and peel the carrots. They should be steamed for about 10 minutes or until soft. Make sure not to overcook them. Fill a big bowl halfway with ice-cold water and dip the carrots in for a few seconds. Place them on a platter, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Squeeze a little lemon juice over them.
3. Cranberry juice
Cranberries should be washed and drained. Fill a pan halfway with water and add the cranberries. Bring the water to a boil. Cook, occasionally stirring, until the berries explode. Using a fine strainer, drain the juice. You are welcome to add sugar. Reheat the liquid for a few minutes longer. Avoid overheating. Fill jars with the mixture. Allow cooling before serving.
4. Anatolian Bulghur pilav
Why not make your Thanksgiving feast a little more unique this year? Anatolian bulghur pilav, a traditional Turkish side dish, will complement the roasted turkey. In a pan over low heat, heat the oil. Cook for a few minutes after adding the chopped onions. Cook for 2 minutes after adding the chopped green peppers to the pan. Now add the tomato paste and the washed bulghur to the pan. 2 minutes of stirring the ingredients. Cook on medium heat for two minutes or until the bulgur absorbs all water.
5. Turkish candied Pumpkin dessert
Instead of making a pumpkin pie to round off your Thanksgiving feast, why not try the Turkish candied pumpkin dessert? Remove the pumpkin's skin. Cut it up into significant bits. Pour the sugar over it and set it aside in a basin overnight. The next day, add 4-5 cloves to the saucepan and simmer for about 30 minutes on medium heat or until the pumpkin is mushy. Garnish with walnuts or coconut if desired. It tastes better when served cold.
Now that you can add more Turkish ways to your warm Thanksgiving, why not give us a visit at:
Sahan Mezopotamian Facebook: sahan mezopotamian 35-39 Auburn Road, Auburn NSW 2144, Australia
