Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, food. While turkey is often the centerpiece of the traditional American Thanksgiving meal, many families celebrate with a diverse array of dishes from different cultures. This year, alternatives to turkey highlight the rich culinary traditions from around the world. In my family, we eat pernil, a slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated with garlic, citrus, and many spices. It is tender, with an extremely crispy, simply irresistible skin.

“If I could eat one dish for the rest of my life, pernil would definitely be in my top three because of how crunchy yet soft the meat is,” said Laila Moreno ‘27.

Another popular dish is croquetas, which are small, breaded, and fried rolls typically filled with ham, chicken or fish. They are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making a wonderful appetizer. Another Dominican favorite is moro, a flavorful rice and beans dish cooked with spices and sometimes coconut milk, providing a rich dish.

From Nigeria, a prominent dish is jollof rice, a vibrant and spicy one-pot dish made with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. It’s often served with chicken, fish, or vegetables and is a staple at celebrations and gatherings.

A popular traditional dish from the Philippines is lechon, a whole roasted pig that is marinated and cooked until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and flavorful.

Ham is another popular alternative to turkey, especially in American households. It is typically glazed with honey or brown sugar and baked until it is juicy and sweet, providing a savory and sweet contrast.

Some families, however, like takeout as their tradition, their palates enjoying a variety of fishes from restaurants.

“We eat Panera bread, I believe that ordering out is wonderful,” said Mahita Devarakonda ‘27.

In South Korea, some eat tteok-bokki, a popular street food made with chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy and sweet sauce, often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Italian lasagna is another option. It is made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, baked until it is bubbly and golden.
A popular favorite as a turkey alternative is American style mac and cheese, with 76.2% of people eating the dish in their Thanksgiving meals.
“I love eating my Nana’s stuffing, and I love eating mac and cheese at Thanksgiving. I also make feta pasta every year and that’s my dish I bring and it’s so good,” said Emma Beatty ‘27.