Thanksgiving may seem non-existent in Germany. Yet, in recent years this holiday is becoming more celebrated by immigrants, expats, and the ever curious locals.
However, hosting a Thanksgiving feast in Germany can be a little tricky. From buying a turkey in advance, to finding ingredients like pumpkin puree and corn syrup… careful planning is important.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and considerations to make sure your Thanksgiving celebration in Germany is an absolute success.
Turkey Troubles
Order in Advance
The showstopper of any Thanksgiving feast is undoubtedly the turkey.
In Germany, however, getting a turkey that matches the size and quality typical of American standards can be a hard.
It’s important to order your turkey well in advance, especially if you live outside major cities where international food markets may be limited. Local butchers or specialty stores may have them, but make sure you give them plenty of notice so you can secure the perfect bird for your celebration.
*Also, keep in mind the size of your turkey, and the size of your German oven. German ovens tend to be a lot smaller than the American versions!
Navigating the German Grocery Aisles
Uncommon Thanksgiving Ingredients
Certain Thanksgiving staples may not be as easily available in Germany as they are in the United States. To avoid unexpected surprises (and near panic attacks), make a detailed shopping list and consider visiting international (such as Turkish markets) or specialty stores.
Ingredients such as canned pumpkin puree, corn syrup, and certain spices may require a bit of hunting. Additionally, be prepared to explain these items to store staff, as language differences are confusing.
Whether you speak German or not, some of the ingredients may be difficult to translate.
Alternative Thanksgiving Ingredients for a Unique Feast
Pumpkin Predicament: DIY Pumpkin Puree
In Germany, fresh pumpkin is widely available, but canned pumpkin puree, on the other hand, is not. Instead of giving up on the beloved pumpkin pie, consider making your own puree. Roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also ensures an authentic touch to your Thanksgiving dishes.
Simply halve a small pumpkin, remove the seeds, roast until tender, and blend the flesh until smooth. Voila! You now have homemade pumpkin puree ready for your pies and other tasty treats.
Alternative to Corn Syrup
Corn syrup, a common ingredient in many Thanksgiving recipes, might be a bit challenging to find in Germany. Fear not; there are alternatives that can give you the same level of sweetness. Look for glucose syrup or golden syrup as substitutes. These can usually be found in larger supermarkets or specialty baking stores.
Keep in mind that the flavor might still be a little different, so make sure you do a small test batch before the big day.
Cornmeal for Cornbread
In the absence of traditional cornmeal, consider using “Mehl vom gelben Mais” (yellow corn flour) or “Polenta” to create a German-style cornbread. These alternatives can be found in most grocery stores and are perfect for getting that that slightly coarse texture and sweet corn flavor.
Cranberries
Instead of relying on the classic cranberry sauce, try substituting it with “Preiselbeeren” or lingonberries. Not the same…but almost. These slightly tart berries can be found in many German supermarkets and add a delightful burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving meal.
Dry Brown Sugar
Brown sugar in Germany tends to be very dry, not at all like the brown sugar you will find in the US. Whether you have dry brown sugar or “Rohrzucker” (raw sugar) and some “Ahornsirup” (maple syrup). Mix the two to create a rich and flavorful syrup that can be used in various Thanksgiving recipes, from glazing ham to sweetening desserts.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
More often than not you will not be able to find the popular “Pumpkin Spice.” So you will have to simply create it yourself. You can do this by using a combination of ground “Zimt” (cinnamon), “Ingwer” (ginger), “Nelken” (cloves), and “Muskatnuss” (nutmeg) as a substitute for pumpkin pie spice. This blend will infuse your Thanksgiving treats with warm and aromatic flavors reminiscent of German holiday baking.
Embrace Local Flavors
Incorporate German Elements
While staying true to Thanksgiving traditions is important, consider embracing local flavors to create a unique and memorable experience. Incorporate German elements into your menu by exploring local produce, cheeses, and wines. This not only adds a personal touch to your celebration but also allows you to share the richness of both cultures with your guests.
- Turkey Stuffing: Enhance your turkey stuffing by incorporating traditional German ingredients like “Lebkuchengewürz” (gingerbread spice) or “Maronen” (chestnuts). These additions will impart a unique flavor profile to your stuffing, creating a memorable dish for your Thanksgiving table.
The Language Barrier
Communicate with Local Suppliers
For all the non-German speakers–when ordering your turkey or searching for specific ingredients, language differences may be a bit of a challenge.
Take the time to communicate with local suppliers, whether it be your butcher or grocery store staff, to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Provide clear details about the type of turkey you want, the quantity, and any specific requirements for ingredients. A little effort in effective communication can go a long way in making your Thanksgiving preparations smoother.
*Trick: Make a list of ingredients including pictures and translations, and also prepare for possible questions they may ask you before hand.
Potluck Perfect
Collaborate with Guests
If the thought of navigating German grocery stores and kitchens seems daunting, think about hosting a potluck-style Thanksgiving. This will with out a doubt make things a little bit easier on the host but also allows guests to contribute dishes that are meaningful to them.
Let your guests know in advance to so you’ll have a nice Thanksgiving spread that combines traditional American dishes with a German twist.
Adapt and Improvise
Be Flexible in the Kitchen
Thanksgiving in Germany may not unfold exactly as it would back home, and that’s perfectly fine! Adapt and improvise my friend.
If a specific ingredient proves impossible to find, just make up a creative substitution that aligns with the local offerings. Flexibility in the kitchen is a key ingredient for a successful international Thanksgiving celebration.
Don’t forget…Have Fun!!!
Hosting a Thanksgiving feast in Germany comes with its unique set of challenges, but with careful planning and a flexible mindset, it can be an super fun and can create some great memories. Each step contributes to a unforgettable celebration that bridges the gap between American traditions and the rich cultural tapestry of Germany.
So, roll up your sleeves, hit the local markets, and get ready to create a Thanksgiving feast that brings friends and family together, no matter where in the world you find yourself.