A Jamaican Thanksgiving
Going to a friend’s house who isn’t Jamaican is an absolutely, no, no. Knowing the turkey will not be jerked or will not be spicy is enough to say, no thank you. If the person is a good friend, then I usually bring a bottle of Jamaican pepper in my expensive looking purse :))) Then I sneak every single drop :)) Jamaican’s love a bit of spice and deep flavors, so prepping and cooking usually starts days before the actual day. Just like most Americans. Honestly, the only part of the turkey Jamaicans care about is the turkey neck. It never even occurred to me when I was growing up, that a turkey had an actual body. Sorry vegans, vegetarians, and Rastafarians!! I personally didn’t like turkey initially because of its lack of flavaaaaaa (insert Jamaican accent)! It was just way too bland and I like my birds tender and brown on the outside. Thankfully, Jamaicans know how to spice up anything. Just a little bit of scotch bonnet pepper and some pimento would take a turkey from bland to amazeballs. A touch of ginger would have guests worshipping the cook. Of course, something will be curried. Usually, goat and chicken because just the bland bird, isn’t enough. Like I said, it is just a bit on the dryer side and us Jamaicans like our meat juicy and full of flava (insert Jamaican accent).
Foods to Expect
Expect to see a turkey (not bland), Curry goat, Curry Chicken, Red beans and Rice, Jerk Chicken, Manish Wata, Fish, Fricassee Chicken and Baked Chicken. Also, expect lots of vegetables to be served as well. Though we love to eat meat, we love our veggies equally. Yes, to candied yams! Give me that Sugaaaaaa (insert Jamaican accent). If it is not a Rastafarian house or vegetarian, then you may find Jerk Pork and Ham at a Jamaican Thanksgiving, too. For dessert, there can be a range of goodies. Of course, Apple Pie and Pumpkin Pie, but the stand out favorites are Jamaican desserts. Sweet Potato Pudding, Jamaican Fruit Cake, and Upside Down Pineapple Pie Cake (not Jamaican, but wi like it) are the real MVPs. I usually can be found by the Rum Punch or dessert table. Just to keep an eye on everything 😉
Adult Beverages
Entertainment
Insert Jamaican accent all over this post! I am so thankful to be able to share my thoughts and passion on this blog with you. Also, I am so grateful to be alive, happy and well. Jamaican or not, if you are reading this, then I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving. What are you most thankful for this thanksgiving? Stay irie and please leave your thoughts in the comments section below. xo