Thanksgiving in Madrid

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This time of year can be a bit nostalgic for most Americans living here, having to miss out on this traditional holiday feast with family back home in the States. But nowadays, with the easy access to imported products and prepared restaurant menus, Thanksgiving can be just as enjoyable in Madrid with fellow expat and Spanish friends.

Turkey is the protagonist to the feast and are remarkably available in supermarkets. Reserving a whole fresh turkey at your local butcher or in bigger supermarkets like in El Corte Ingles or Carrefour is recommendable at least a few days in advance. Lidle also carry small frozen turkeys. Another option for those with no oven (hey, many sadly don’t believe it or not!) can opt for pre cut turkey breasts instead, knows as pechuga de pavo (not to be mistaken with lonchas, the sandwiches slices)…and make this divine recipe.

Many traditional side dishes accompany the bird such as a green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, corn, cranberry sauce & of course, the all famous Pumpkin Pie. Pumpkins, yams & sweet potatoes are all very commonly sold in local fruit stands to make pies and casseroles with, but if making it from scratch is not your cup of tea, then a canned pumpkin puréed mix can be easily found in Taste of America or Sabores del Mundo, along with many American imported goods needed to complete the feast like marshmallows, canned cranberries and pecans. You can find fresh cranberries at Gold Gourmet & Mercado de la Cebada and whole shelled pecans in Carrefour and El Corte Inglés.

If cooking is altogether out of the question or have no time to prepare at home, then you can opt instead to dine in restaurants that serve the traditional meal to homesick Americans and anyone who would like to experience this customary feast. American Comfort Food restaurant La Gringa offers a wonderful full-course Thanksgiving feast for lunch & dinner for 35€ from Wednesday the 25th – Sunday the 29th. See menu here. Reservations are needed and are booked quickly, so call asap! Remember, Thanksgiving is next Thursday, November 26th so gather up your friends and enjoy this day to be thankful (and gain a few pounds). Gobble, gobble!  

 

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