Turkey Day was never about the Turkey. At least not in my vegetarian family. There’s always a lot of curiosity around what vegetarians eat on Thanksgiving. And Indians. A part of me feels like I should be having a magical tandoori tofurkey. [Note to self: Next year, make tandoori tofurkey. Make it magical.] We usually just have a big Indian feast for Thanksgiving. Last year, my niece wanted an “American” Thanksgiving, so in addition to the Indian feast, we made mashed potatoes, a vegetable tian, green beans (notably not Dad’s green beans) and a sweet potato something. That niece changed her mind when the food hit the table and opted for the Indian feast.
I’ll admit it though – I’m a little curious too though. What do other non-Turkey eating Indian families eat on Thanksgiving?
This year, I’m making Paneer Makhani and Pumpkin Pie to add to a handful of dishes that my mother-in-law and sisters-in-law are making. If you’re still menu planning, here’s a link to A Very Desi Thanksgiving from the past. And if you’re looking for some non-desi Thanksgiving dishes with a kick, here are a few of my favorites:
- Brussels Sprouts in Honey Butter with Chili Flakes
- Roasted Cauliflower with Paprika and Lemon Juice
- Couscous with Preserved Lemons and Haloumi Cheese
- Curried Corn and Cherry Tomato Couscous
- Farmers Market Vegetable Tian
Happy Turkey Day Thanksgiving!
xxoo,
Nithya
Photo Credit: Surya Das
2 responses to “2011’s A Very Desi Thanksgiving”
My main dish was butternut squash macaroni and cheese. But I also made mushroom gravy to serve with the mashed potatoes, a spicy cranberry sauce, and orange yams. I’ve long ago given up on tofurkey (rumor has it it’s nasty) or the “vegetarian loaf” available at my local Trader Joe’s market. I bring a side dish (the butternut mac ‘n cheese) that can work as MY main dish!
Oh, and my “so easy to make and serves tons” pumpkin pie cake. It’s like an upside down pumpkin pie, made in a 9×13″ pan. So it travels easily, feeds lots, and is delish!
I wonder what a tandoori tofurkey would taste like? Hmmm… 🙂
Sue – your pumpkin pie cake sounds delicious! As do all of the other dishes. I would love to hear your recipe for the butternut squash mac and cheese.