Some things about Thanksgiving should never change: gravy, mashed potatoes, Aunt Jane making an untoward comment to a new significant other. But side dishes sit far enough outside the realm of Traditional Holiday Fare that unusual suspects like harissa or miso can slip right in. Here, tips for keeping things interesting—and crowd-pleasing, too.
Use the Scientific Method Change a single element at a time so a dish offers both the familiar and the exciting. Adding bacon to brussels sprouts is an old trick, but swapping in chorizo creates intrigue—just enough. Guests new to Jerusalem artichokes? Rosemary and balsamic should win them over.
Keep It Simple This is the time to try new ingredients but not new techniques. The same rules of Thanksgiving apply no matter what: Do-ahead or stovetop sides are a lifesaver, and taxing projects need not apply. Don’t bite off more than you can chew for the sake of experimentation.
Think in Categories Harissa might not be in your daily rotation, but think of it as a form of heat. Miso brings saltiness and umami flavor—not unlike all that gravy.
Sell It
It’s the most traditional meal of the year, so be prepared to do a little PR for an outside-the-box dish. Or simply try the well-established fried-calamari trick: Be as vague as possible about the ingredients (it’s worked on kids for generations). **
Do you gratin? You can and will after watching our video:
Get more veggie recipes:
Brussels Sprout Leaves with Chorizo and Toasted Almonds
Roasted Beets with Sesame and Marjoram
Harissa-and-Maple Roasted Carrots
Sautéed Collard Greens with Caramelized Miso Butter
Crispy Jerusalem Artichokes with Aged Balsamic
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