Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and food that brings people together. This year, give your table a Portuguese twist — rich in colour, tradition, and the soulful warmth of Portuguese cuisine. Here are some ways you can make your Thanksgiving with Portuguese flavor:
Turkey with Massa de Pimentão (Pepper Paste)
Start with the heart of the meal: a golden turkey brushed with Massa de Pimentão, Portugal’s iconic red-pepper paste made from roasted peppers, garlic, and salt. This paste will create a glossy glaze that’s savoury, slightly sweet, and beautifully aromatic. Marinate overnight with white wine, thyme, and bay leaves to infuse every bite with deep flavour.
Chouriço Stuffed Turkey
Take the turkey a step further with a smoky chouriço stuffing. Dice it up and combine with bread cubes, sautéed onions, garlic, and parsley. The result is a stuffing that’s rich, flavorful, and rustic — a perfect bridge between Thanksgiving comfort and Iberian charm.
Broa de Milho (Portuguese Corn Bread)
Skip the standard dinner rolls and serve Broa de Milho, Portugal’s rustic corn bread. Its hearty texture and golden crust are great for soaking up turkey juices and olive oil. Warm, humble, and deeply satisfying, this bread feels like it was made for family gatherings.
Vegetables with 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Instead of buttered casseroles, roast or sauté your sides in 100% extra virgin Portuguese olive oil. Toss carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts with garlic and paprika for a vibrant, Mediterranean edge.
Arroz Doce (Portuguese Rice Pudding)
For dessert, you can trade the traditional pie for Arroz Doce, Portugal’s creamy rice pudding. Topped with cinnamon and lemon zest, it’s simple, comforting, and elegant — a sweet reminder of home.
Pastéis de Nata (Custard Tarts)
Finish the meal with Pastéis de Nata, those irresistible golden tarts with flaky pastry and caramelised tops. Small, beautiful, and unforgettable, they bring the perfect close to a Portugal-inspired Thanksgiving.
By blending these touches — pepper-rubbed turkey, smoky chouriço, rustic bread, olive oil, and sweet cinnamon — you bring Portugal’s soul to the Thanksgiving table. A feast of gratitude, heritage, and flavour shared in every bite.