Ah, Thanksgiving in Haiti! It’s not just a meal; it’s a vibrant gathering of family, friends, and tradition. Growing up, I remember the aroma of roasted turkey mingling with the zesty scent of sour orange and garlic wafting through our home. *Haitian Thanksgiving food* is all about rich flavors that tell a story of our culture and heritage. Each dish, from the marinated turkey to the hearty rice and beans, brings us together around the table, sharing laughter and memories. It’s a time to reflect on our blessings while indulging in the comforting, soulful dishes that make our hearts and bellies full. Trust me, once you experience this feast, it’ll hold a special place in your heart, just like it does in mine!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole turkey (10-12 pounds)
- 2 cups of marinade (made with garlic, parsley, and sour orange juice)
- 4 cups of rice
- 2 cups of red beans
- 1 cup of diced vegetables (carrots and bell peppers work great)
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 ripe plantains (sliced)
- 2 cups of fried onions (for that extra crunch)
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (for frying the plantains)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first—let’s marinate that turkey! In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, parsley, and sour orange juice to create a flavorful marinade. Rub this mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor. Cover it and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but if you can, let it soak overnight. Trust me, the longer, the better!
- Once the turkey is marinated, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that golden-brown skin we all love.
- Now, place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Make sure it’s breast-side up—this helps keep the meat juicy! Roast it for about 3 to 4 hours. I like to baste it every hour with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful. Don’t forget to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- While the turkey is roasting, let’s get that rice and beans cooking! In a large pot, combine the rice, red beans, diced vegetables, thyme, and enough water to cover everything. Season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the beans are tender.
- Don’t forget those plantains! Slice them up and heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. They add such a delightful sweetness to the meal!
- Once the turkey is done roasting, let it rest for about 20-30 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices so every slice is perfectly moist.
- When ready to serve, place the turkey on a platter, top it with the fried onions for that extra crunch, and serve the rice and beans alongside. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. And voila! Your Haitian Thanksgiving feast is ready to be enjoyed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, bold flavors that celebrate Haitian culture.
- Perfect for family gatherings, creating lasting memories.
- Easy-to-follow instructions make it accessible for all cooks.
- Marinating the turkey enhances its juiciness and depth.
- Fried plantains add a sweet contrast to the savory dishes.
Tips for Success
To really elevate your Haitian Thanksgiving feast, marinating the turkey is key! If you can, let it soak overnight in that garlicky, citrusy goodness—it makes a world of difference in flavor and tenderness. When roasting, remember to baste every hour for juicy results. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
For serving, don’t rush the resting time! Letting the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes after roasting ensures every slice is bursting with juices. And when you plate it up, sprinkle the fried onions generously on top; they add that perfect crunch that everyone will love. Lastly, don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs—it’s all about those little touches that make your meal look and taste extraordinary!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to put your own twist on this Haitian Thanksgiving feast! For a spicier kick, try adding some Scotch bonnet pepper to the marinade—just a little goes a long way! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can swap out the turkey for a hearty roasted cauliflower or a flavorful jackfruit dish. It’s all about those bold flavors!
As for side dishes, consider serving a refreshing avocado salad or a sweet potato puree to complement the richness of the turkey. And if you want to mix up the rice, try adding coconut milk along with the beans for a creamy twist. Trust me; these variations will keep your meal exciting and full of flavor while honoring the heart of Haitian cuisine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your delightful Haitian Thanksgiving feast, you might have some leftovers, and that’s a beautiful thing! To store your turkey, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or placing it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the rice and beans, store them in a separate container, and they’ll last about the same time.
If you want to keep your leftovers longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to portion them out for easy meals later. The turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the rice and beans will hold up for about 2 months.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheat the turkey in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through, and for the rice and beans, a quick zap in the microwave works perfectly. Just add a splash of water to the rice to keep it moist. Enjoy the flavors all over again!
Nutritional Information
This Haitian Thanksgiving feast is not only delicious but also packed with goodness! Each serving (about 1 plate) is estimated to contain around 600 calories, with 20g of fat, 40g of protein, and 80g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 10g of fiber and 5g of sugar in there. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on portion sizes and cooking methods. Enjoy this hearty meal while celebrating the flavors of Haiti!
FAQ Section
How long should I marinate the turkey?
I recommend marinating the turkey for at least 4 hours, but if you can swing it, letting it soak overnight is even better! It really allows those flavors to penetrate the meat.
What’s the best way to know when the turkey is done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. But, hey, if you don’t have a thermometer, just look for that beautiful golden-brown skin!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the turkey the night before and roast it the next day. Just remember to let it rest after cooking to keep it juicy. The rice and beans can also be made a day in advance.
What can I serve with this meal?
Besides the traditional rice and beans, I love pairing this meal with a fresh avocado salad or even some sautéed greens. It balances the rich flavors beautifully!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Sure! If turkey isn’t your thing, you can use chicken or even a hearty vegetarian option like roasted jackfruit. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Haitian Thanksgiving Food: 7 Bold Flavors That Comfort
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A traditional Haitian Thanksgiving meal featuring rich flavors and cultural significance.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (10–12 pounds)
- 2 cups of marinade (garlic, parsley, sour orange juice)
- 4 cups of rice
- 2 cups of red beans
- 1 cup of diced vegetables (carrots, bell peppers)
- 1 tablespoon of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Plantains (2-3, sliced)
- 2 cups of fried onions
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate the turkey with garlic, parsley, and sour orange juice for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roast the turkey for 3-4 hours, basting every hour.
- Cook rice and red beans together with diced vegetables and thyme.
- Fry plantain slices until golden brown.
- Serve fried onions on top of the turkey and rice.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Let the turkey rest before carving.
- Use any leftover turkey for sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Haitian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Haitian Thanksgiving food
