15 Pakistani-Inspired Dishes to Serve at Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a major holiday in the United States and Canada. While it isn’t a traditional celebration in Pakistan, many people of Pakistani origin who now live in North America enjoy combining Pakistani flavours with classic Thanksgiving dishes. If you want a menu that honours bold Pakistani spices while keeping the spirit of a traditional Thanksgiving spread, the ideas below will inspire you.
Note: Turkey is the staple meat for a traditional Thanksgiving meal, but it is uncommon in Pakistani cuisine. That’s why Pakistani-style turkey recipes are rarer. You can, however, adapt many Pakistani chicken recipes for turkey—just adjust cooking times. A medium chicken usually needs about 1–1.5 hours to become tender, while a medium turkey can take up to four hours, depending on size. Check your bird’s weight and cooking chart for accurate times.
15 Pakistani Recipes For Your Thanksgiving Dinner
1
Lahori Chargha – whole chicken, just like in Lahore
This fragrant, finger-licking Lahori Chargha is a top pick for a Pakistani-style Thanksgiving main. It’s spiced with cumin, ginger, garlic and lemon for bright, bold flavour. The post also includes a homemade Lahori spice mix that works great on wedges or roasted vegetables. To use this method with turkey, increase the steaming and roasting time according to your bird’s size.
Check out this recipe
2
The Aziz Kitchen
Steam Roast
A reliable steam-roast method that yields tender, juicy meat every time. If converting to turkey, be sure to adjust cooking times to match the turkey’s weight.
Check out this recipe
3
My Heart Beets
Tandoori Roast Turkey
A Thanksgiving turkey roasted with classic South Asian tandoori flavours—ideal if you want to keep turkey as your centerpiece while introducing aromatic spices and a vibrant red tandoori crust.
Check out this recipe
4
Urdu Mom
Hara Masala Roast Turkey
Hara Masala—literally a green sauce made from fresh mint and coriander—gives a bright, herby marinade. It’s lighter than heavy red spice rubs and perfect for those who prefer fresher, less fiery flavours on their roast.
Check out this recipe
5
Flour and Spice Blog
Roast Mutton Leg
If you prefer to avoid turkey or chicken, a well-roasted leg of mutton can be a stunning Thanksgiving centerpiece. Robust spices and slow roasting deliver rich, satisfying results.
Check out this recipe
6
Curried Green Beans and Potato – Aloo Phali
A classic vegetable side given a Pakistani touch. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, Aloo Phali pairs beautifully with roasted meats or breads and brings a familiar yet spiced element to the table.
Check out this recipe
7
Tangy Potatoes – Khatte Aloo
Khatte Aloo are tangy, spiced potatoes that make a lively side. They’re quick to prepare and versatile—try mashing them for a tangy version of mashed potatoes or serve as a roasted side.
Check out this recipe
8
Cumin-spiced Mashed Potatoes
Originally a samosa filling, this cumin-spiced potato mix is versatile enough for mashed potatoes. Add milk, butter or cream for a smooth, creamy texture with warm, aromatic spices.
Check out this recipe
9
The Spice Spoon
Spicy Glazed Carrots
Sweet carrots with a spicy glaze make a colourful, flavourful side that fits right into a Thanksgiving table while echoing Pakistani spice profiles.
Check out this recipe
10
The Shazia Blog
Roasted Mix Vegetables
A simple, spiced roasted vegetable dish that complements virtually any main course. It showcases the spices commonly used in Pakistani cooking while letting the vegetables shine.
Check out this recipe
11
Mashed Potato Cutlets – Aloo Tikki
Aloo Tikki are mashed potato patties that offer creamy, carby comfort in a handheld form. They make a fun, non-traditional twist for a Thanksgiving spread and are excellent as starters or sides.
Check out this recipe
12
Plum Chutney
A Pakistani take on cranberry sauce, this plum chutney balances tangy fruit with warming spices such as cinnamon, cumin and coriander. It pairs well with roast meats, vegetables, or a cheese and cracker board as an appetizer.
Check out this recipe
13
Pumpkin Halwa
Pumpkin Halwa is a rich Pakistani dessert that cooks pumpkin into a fudgy, aromatic pudding. With warming cardamom and a dense, moist texture, it’s an ideal holiday-season dessert to include on your Thanksgiving table.
Check out this recipe
14
Almond Halwa – you can make this with pecans or any nuts!
Almond Halwa is another rich, nutty pudding. You can substitute the almonds for pecans, hazelnuts, pistachios or other nuts—pecans pair especially well with Western holiday flavours. Serve warm with ice cream for an indulgent finish.
Check out this recipe
15
The Spice Spoon
Pakistani Bread Pudding – Shahi Tukray
Shahi Tukray is a beloved Pakistani bread pudding—rich, milky and scented with cardamom. It’s a comforting dessert that complements a Thanksgiving menu beautifully.
Check out this recipe
Would you add anything to this list? Do you have a Pakistani recipe that’s regular at your Thanksgiving table? Share your favourites—I’d love to hear about them in the comments.
