Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition in the U.S., centered around gratitude, family, and a feast of comforting dishes. For international students, this holiday can be a wonderful cultural experience, but it may also heighten feelings of homesickness. Including a dish from their home country can provide a comforting connection to their traditions and show how much you value them. Here are three simple recipes inspired by Chinese, Italian, and South Korean cuisines to complement your Thanksgiving table.
- Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)
Why it works: Scallion pancakes are a savory, flaky comfort food beloved in China. They’re easy to share, making them a great addition to any holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup hot water
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Mix the flour and hot water until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, cover, and rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle, brush with sesame oil, sprinkle with scallions and salt, then roll it up tightly.
- Divide the dough into smaller pieces, flatten each piece, and roll out into a pancake.
- Fry in a pan with vegetable oil until golden and crispy on both sides. Serve warm.
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- Italian Tiramisu
Why it works: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that brings a sweet, creamy familiarity to the holiday meal. It’s an indulgent way to end the celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup espresso or strong coffee, cooled
– 3 tbsp sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 package ladyfinger cookies
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar over a simmering water bath until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in mascarpone.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
- Dip ladyfingers quickly into the espresso and layer them in a dish. Spread mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat layers.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, dust with cocoa powder, and serve chilled.
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- South Korean Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)
Why it works: Japchae is a festive and versatile dish often served at celebrations in Korea. Its colorful, savory profile makes it a delightful side for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz sweet potato glass noodles
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup spinach
– 1/2 onion, sliced
– 4 oz beef or tofu, sliced thinly
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
- Stir-fry the beef or tofu in a pan with a bit of sesame oil, then add the vegetables and cook until tender.
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil, and toss with the noodles and cooked ingredients.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and serve warm.
Including dishes like these at your Thanksgiving table not only shows care but also celebrates the unique cultural backgrounds of your international students. It’s a way to make them feel at home while sharing the spirit of gratitude that defines the holiday.