Thanksgiving with a French Flair: The Main Dish You Need to Try

 Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends to celebrate gratitude and share a festive meal. While it's traditionally an American holiday, there are many ways to incorporate different cultural flavors into your Thanksgiving feast. If you want to add a touch of French elegance to your celebration, why not try a French-inspired main dish? This article explores French Thanksgiving traditions, what French people typically enjoy for a holiday meal, and most importantly, the main dish you should try to bring some French flair to your Thanksgiving table.

What Is the Traditional Main Dish for Thanksgiving in France?

In France, Thanksgiving is not as widely celebrated as it is in the United States, but the French do have their own rich culinary traditions for festive occasions. When it comes to holiday meals, what is the main dish for thanksgiving in France, if not turkey? While many French families might adopt American Thanksgiving traditions, others turn to French classics like roasted goose, duck, or even a hearty roast lamb as their main dish.

While turkey is somewhat common in France during special meals, especially around the holidays, the French might opt for something a bit more luxurious or intricate, such as a perfectly roasted duck with a flavorful sauce, or a rich French cassoulet filled with tender meats and beans.

How Can You Add French Elegance to Your Thanksgiving Meal?

Thanksgiving meals are famous for being hearty and comforting, but incorporating French elements can elevate the dining experience. The French are known for their culinary finesse, and there are several ways to integrate French flavors without completely abandoning traditional American dishes.

One option is to combine French techniques with American ingredients. For example, you could make a classic American turkey with a French twist—such as stuffing it with a mixture of wild mushrooms, chestnuts, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. The French often use rich stocks, delicate herbs, and intricate sauces to add depth of flavor to their dishes, so you can take these elements and weave them into your Thanksgiving spread.

Another way to embrace French cuisine is by serving a French side dish alongside your turkey. Consider preparing gratin dauphinois (a creamy, cheesy potato dish), or a colorful French salad with vinaigrette dressing. These side dishes can provide the perfect balance to your turkey or main dish.

What Is the Best French Main Dish for Thanksgiving?

If you want to go beyond turkey and really immerse your Thanksgiving meal in French culture, consider these traditional French main dishes:

1. Roast Duck with Orange Sauce

A classic French choice for a special occasion meal, roast duck with orange sauce (canard aux oranges) offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional turkey. The crispy skin and tender meat of the duck pair wonderfully with the sweet and tangy orange sauce, creating a dish that's both rich and refreshing. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a combination of savory and sweet flavors.

2. Coq au Vin

Another classic French dish is coq au vin, a slow-braised chicken cooked in red wine, with vegetables, mushrooms, and herbs. The deep, complex flavors of this dish come from hours of cooking, making it an ideal option for a Thanksgiving feast. While this dish may not be as commonly associated with Thanksgiving, it carries the essence of French cuisine and can be a perfect fit for the occasion.

3. Cassoulet

For something hearty and warming, you might want to serve a traditional French cassoulet. This rustic dish is made with a variety of meats such as duck, sausage, and pork, along with beans and herbs. The slow-cooked, savory flavors make it a comforting option for Thanksgiving, especially in cooler months.

4. Roast Goose with Herb Stuffing

While goose is not as common as turkey in the U.S., it is a beloved dish in many parts of France for special occasions. A roast goose, stuffed with a delicious mixture of herbs, chestnuts, and perhaps apples, offers a rich, flavorful alternative to turkey. The crispy skin and tender meat are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of French elegance to your Thanksgiving meal.

Can You Make a French-Inspired Stuffing?

One of the key components of a Thanksgiving meal is the stuffing, and French-inspired stuffing can elevate the entire meal. Unlike the typical American bread-based stuffing, French stuffing often incorporates chestnuts, mushrooms, and wild rice, which offer both texture and flavor. You could also try making a stuffing with French baguette cubes soaked in a flavorful stock, then adding herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary.

If you're feeling adventurous, a stuffing that includes foie gras (a French delicacy) or pâté could give your Thanksgiving dinner a true French touch. These luxurious ingredients are rich and full of flavor, and they'll definitely impress your guests.

What Are Some French Desserts for Thanksgiving?

No French-inspired Thanksgiving meal would be complete without a delicious dessert. The French have an incredible variety of sweet treats that can add a sophisticated finish to your meal.

1. Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin is a classic French upside-down caramelized apple tart that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. The apples are slowly cooked in butter and sugar before being covered with pastry and baked until golden. The result is a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy dessert that will be a hit at your dinner table.

2. Crème Brûlée

For something creamy and indulgent, consider making crème brûlée. This classic French dessert features a rich custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. It’s easy to make and adds a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving dessert selection.

3. Madeleines

Madeleines are small, buttery French sponge cakes that can be flavored with vanilla, lemon, or orange zest. These delicate treats can be served on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea to end your Thanksgiving meal on a light note.

Should You Include French Wines in Your Thanksgiving Celebration?

A Thanksgiving dinner with a French flair wouldn’t be complete without a selection of French wines. France is home to some of the best wines in the world, and selecting a few bottles to pair with your meal can elevate the entire experience.

For a Thanksgiving feast, consider serving a red Bordeaux or a Burgundy wine, both of which are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes, including roast meats and duck. A white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling wine such as Champagne could also complement your meal beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your main dish.

Conclusion

Bringing French flair to your Thanksgiving meal is a delightful way to mix things up while celebrating with your loved ones. Whether you opt for a classic roast duck, coq au vin, or a cozy cassoulet, French-inspired main dishes can bring new flavors and excitement to your holiday table. Additionally, side dishes, stuffing, and desserts like tarte tatin or crème brûlée will create a meal that’s both sophisticated and comforting. By adding French elements to your Thanksgiving dinner, you can create a memorable celebration that blends the best of both cultures.