Thanksgiving may have its roots in American history, but in Mexico, families have embraced the holiday in their own special way adding bold Mexican flavors and cherished family traditions to the feast. A Mexican Thanksgiving table is a beautiful blend of classic holiday comfort foods and authentic Mexican cuisine, bringing together the best of both worlds. We at Eddie’s Mexican Restaurant love celebrating the richness of Mexican food traditions, especially during the holidays. Here is a look at what you might find on the table during a traditional Mexican-style Thanksgiving.
Mexican-Style Turkey
Turkey, or pavo, still takes center stage but with a flavorful twist! Instead of simple roasting, Mexican families often prepare the turkey marinated in a rich blend of spices, garlic, lime, and chiles, then roasted or braised to perfection. Some regions serve Pavo en Mole, where the turkey is smothered in a decadent, chocolate-chile mole sauce a dish that’s smoky, sweet, and deeply traditional. It’s a delicious symbol of how Mexican cuisine turns the familiar into something extraordinary.
Thanksgiving Mexican Sides
Mexican Rice: A colorful staple on nearly every Mexican table, arroz rojo or red rice is cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices. It’s light yet flavorful and pairs perfectly with turkey and mole.
Frijoles or Beans: Refried or whole beans are another essential. Rich and hearty, they provide the perfect complement to other bold dishes on the table.
Tamales: No major celebration in Mexico is complete without tamales! Made from masa or corn dough filled with meats, chiles, or cheeses and steamed in corn husks, tamales represent community and family because they are often made together in large batches before the big feast.
Stuffing with a Twist: Instead of the traditional bread stuffing, some Mexican households use cornbread, chorizo, or even rice-based stuffings, adding jalapeños, raisins, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Fresh & Flavorful Additions
Guacamole & Salsa: No Mexican table is complete without fresh guacamole, salsa roja, or salsa verde. These bring a refreshing burst of color and spice that livens up the entire meal.
Ensalada de Nochebuena: Though traditionally served at Christmas, this colorful salad often appears at Thanksgiving too. Made with beets, oranges, apples, jicama, and pomegranate seeds, it’s sweet, tangy, and festive, a refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes.
Desserts Worth Saving Room For
Flan: Creamy caramel flan is a timeless favorite like rich, silky, and perfectly sweet after a savory meal.
Churros: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, churros are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Pumpkin Empanadas: Combining American and Mexican traditions, pumpkin-filled empanadas bring a festive seasonal flavor with a flaky crust and spiced pumpkin filling.
A Celebration of Family, Flavor & Gratitude
A traditional Mexican Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food. It is about coming together, sharing love, and celebrating blessings. The dishes on the table reflect generations of family recipes, regional traditions, and the joy of blending Mexican culture with a holiday centered on gratitude.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine in Las Vegas, Nevada (Just Minutes from Summerlin, North LV, Paradise, Lone Mountain & Henderson, NV)
This Thanksgiving, celebrate the best of both worlds and remember that no matter what’s on the table, what really matters is who’s sitting around it. For great Mexican cuisine, come on down to Eddie’s Mexican Restaurant today.
