Autumn in Charlotte brings relief from summer’s steamy grip, as the leaves begin their annual show of vibrant colors ahead of the holiday season. For professional chefs across the Queen City, there’s often a dual emphasis on creating both memorable meals for patrons and for the dining table at home. SouthPark Magazine asked six Charlotte chefs and bakers for their take on the annual fall gratitude fest, from holiday memories to favorite dishes — plus some sage advice for the home chef…

 

For Carlos Nevarez, Thanksgiving typically involves a visit to his brother’s farm in central Florida, north of Miami, where he grew up.

“Cooking during the holidays can be stressful,” says the Puerto Rico native. “My top tips for home chefs are to stay calm, don’t get overwhelmed and remember to cook from the heart.”

For Nevarez, cooking from the heart means traditional dishes such as turkey alongside savory and sweet Puerto Rican dishes such as arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas), alcapurrias (beef and plantain fritters) and coquito, a coconut-based version of eggnog.

ON THE MENU: While El Puro will be closed for Thanksgiving, the restaurant will host a special pre-holiday event Nov. 15-17 to mark its third anniversary. The weekend includes special dance and musical performances…

 

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