Thanksgiving should feel joyful — not like a marathon in the kitchen. This year, I created a cozy, soulful, African-inspired menu using some of my favorite recipes from the blog. These dishes are warm, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for hosting without stressing yourself out.
And yes… you can find many of the tools I use for these recipes in my Amazon storefront (linked throughout and at the end of this post). A girl has to help you cook easier and keep the lights on!
Let’s get into it.
Starter: Amaranth Soup
We’re opening the meal with a cozy bowl of Amaranth Soup — silky, nourishing, and just comforting enough to set the tone for your Thanksgiving table.
It’s a beautiful way to introduce your guests to a traditional African ingredient in a way that feels familiar and elegant.
Main Course: Chicken With Mushroom Sauce
Instead of wrestling with a giant turkey, serve tender, juicy Chicken with Mushroom Sauce.
This dish is creamy, rich, and surprisingly simple — perfect when you want a holiday meal that feels luxurious without the hours of prep. It pairs effortlessly with every side on this menu.
Side Dishes That Shine
Cassava Croquettes
Crunchy outside, soft inside — these croquettes are the fun, African-inspired alternative to traditional stuffing. They disappear fast, so double your batch!
Boiled Plantains With Tilapia
Sweet boiled plantains paired with perfectly seasoned tilapia create a balanced, comforting side dish your guests won’t stop talking about. It brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia all in one plate.
Crispy Garlic Bread
Not traditional — but absolutely welcome.
It’s perfect for dipping into your mushroom sauce or soaking up leftover soup. And really… who’s ever complained about garlic bread at a feast?
Dessert: Beignets With Cranberry Sauce
We’re closing the meal with fluffy, golden beignets paired with a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce. It’s the perfect fusion of African and classic American holiday flavors. Light, festive, and unforgettable.
What to Drink: Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Options
To elevate the menu even more, here are drink pairings that complement the entire meal beautifully.
Alcoholic Drinks
1. Sparkling Rosé
Great for starters and dessert — light, fruity, and refreshing.
2. Chardonnay (Lightly Oaked)
Pairs beautifully with the Chicken in Mushroom Sauce.
3. Pinot Noir
A perfect red wine option that won’t overpower the dishes.
4. Apple Cider Sangria
Seasonal, festive, and easy to batch ahead.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
1. Hibiscus Tea (Bissap)
Serve chilled or warm — bright, floral, and perfect with plantains and tilapia.
2. Sparkling Apple Cider
Classic, kid-friendly, and very “holiday.”
3. Ginger Beer (Non-Alcoholic)
Pairs well with rich, creamy dishes thanks to the bold ginger flavor.
4. Citrus-Mint Mocktail
Refreshing and palate-cleansing between bites.
Hosting Essentials I Use (Available on My Amazon Storefront)
From cookware to serving platters, you’ll find many of the tools I love linked in my storefront.
You can browse everything here:
👉 https://amzn.to/47Y7UC9
A few helpful items for this menu:
- Nonstick crêpe or beignet pan
- Dutch oven for soups
- Wooden cooking spoons
- Garlic press
- Beautiful serving platters
- Wine glasses + holiday tumblers
- Air fryer (for easy croquettes)
Final Thoughts
With this African-inspired Thanksgiving menu, you get comfort, warmth, flavor, and just enough uniqueness to make your table memorable — without spending the entire day stressing in the kitchen.
Everything here is simple, soulful, and made to bring people together.
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