A Taste of Gratitude – My Family’s Thanksgiving Story
A Taste of Gratitude – My Family’s Thanksgiving Story
As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on how grateful I am for all of you — our incredible Basoli family. Over the past two years, your love and support have meant the world to us. Whether you’ve shared our sauces at your family table, gifted them to loved ones, or simply enjoyed them on a quiet evening at home, you’ve become part of our story. This Thanksgiving, I wanted to share a little piece of mine with you.
I was only twelve when my family and I moved to Canada. I didn’t know a full sentence of English at the time, but within six months, my brothers and I were fluent — I guess being young and eager to learn has its advantages! One of the first Canadian traditions I discovered was Thanksgiving. I remember listening wide-eyed as my classmates shared stories about their family dinners — the turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and all the laughter around the table.
When I came home that day, I told my parents all about it. My father, who was busy running his restaurant, was surprised by how enthusiastic we were. But my mother and I decided that we would celebrate too — in our own way. We didn’t make a turkey that first year, but we filled our table with love and flavor: spiced chicken, fragrant rice, mixed vegetables, and a creamy Kheer (sweet rice pudding cooked in milk) for dessert. It wasn’t a traditional Thanksgiving meal, but it was ours — a fusion of cultures, made with heart.
Since then, that tradition has never left our family. Every year, we find new ways to blend the flavors of my Indian heritage with the warmth of Canadian celebration. Today, I carry that same spirit forward with my own family. This year, our Thanksgiving menu includes my grandmother’s Malai Chicken, made using our signature Basoli Malai Sauce — rich, creamy, and full of love. Alongside it, we’ll have garlic mashed potatoes, fried rice, mixed vegetables, and for dessert — my homemade Crème Brûlée, a sweet touch to end a comforting meal.
What Thanksgiving Means to Me
Thanksgiving has always reminded me of how far we’ve come — from arriving in Canada as newcomers to now building a life rooted in love, food, and community. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and feel grateful for the small, simple joys that make life meaningful — sharing meals, laughter, and the comfort of home-cooked food.
Our Blended Traditions
Our Thanksgiving table might look a little different — with butter chicken instead of turkey and naan beside the mashed potatoes — but that’s the beauty of it. It’s a reflection of who we are: a family that blends cultures, flavors, and memories with every celebration. Food has always been our way of connecting generations, honoring where we come from, and embracing the country that gave us a new beginning.
From the Basoli Kitchen
In the Basoli kitchen, Thanksgiving is extra special. We simmer our sauces, test new recipes, and prepare orders for customers who are sharing Basoli at their own tables. The aroma of garlic, cream, and spices fills the air — a reminder that food truly connects us all, no matter where we come from or what we celebrate.
Whether you’re cooking a traditional turkey or creating your own version of Thanksgiving, I hope your day is filled with warmth, laughter, and gratitude. From my kitchen to yours, thank you for being part of our story — and for letting Basoli be part of yours. ❤️
Lots of love, Pam & The Basoli Family.
