The air was thick with the scent of spices and laughter as our family gathered around the old wooden table in Abuela’s kitchen ( my kitchen 🤪) last Thanksgiving. It was one of those chaotic, heartwarming fiestas where cousins spilled stories from the year, tías debated the best Salsa playlist, and the kids darted between legs like fireflies. But this year, we decided to shake things up—no more predictable roast turkey that leaves everyone in a food coma. Inspired by my abuela’s tales of her Puerto Rican roots, this year God willing, we will dive into Pavo en Fricassé—a Spanish-inspired simmered turkey dish that’s equal parts comfort and celebration. It’s like a hug from the holidays, but with a zesty twist that will have everyone clamoring for seconds (and thirds). As the pot bubbles away, we will blend tradition with a fresh flair that will make our festivities feel alive and vibrant.

If you’re ready to elevate your own holiday table, here’s Abuela’s tweaked recipe for Pavo en Fricassé. It’s simpler than it sounds—think tender turkey thighs stewed in a garlicky sofrito with olives, potatoes, and a splash of white wine for that subtle sparkle. Serves 6-8, and prep time is about 30 minutes, with a cook time of 1.5 hours.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs turkey thighs or drumsticks (bone-in for extra flavor)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic vibe)

• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup pimento-stuffed green olives

• 1/4 cup raisins (for a sweet pop—trust me!)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional: A pinch of saffron for that golden glow

Instructions:

1. Season and Sear: Pat the turkey dry, season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the turkey pieces on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside—don’t skip this for that caramelized magic!

2. Build the Sofrito: In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and cook for 2 more minutes to deepen the flavors.

3. Simmer to Perfection: Return the turkey to the pot. Pour in the white wine (or broth), scraping up any browned bits. Add potatoes, olives, raisins, and enough water to just cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour, or until the turkey is fall-off-the-bone tender.

4. Finish and Feast: Uncover and simmer 15-20 minutes more to thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice or crusty bread to soak up every drop.

Pro tip: Make it ahead—the flavors mingle even better overnight, leaving you more time for those family dance-offs. As we savored our plates that night, the conversation turned to how the holidays aren’t just about the food; they’re about feeling radiant inside and out. Which brings me to the real sparkle of the season: glowing skin, bold lips, and outfits that turn heads without the fuss. That’s where my Avon favorites come in—timeless picks that make holiday prep as joyful as the party itself. Monique Rodriguez’s Avon Online Store is blooming with beauty must-haves that fit right into your festive routine. Here are a few I’m loving right now to keep you shining through every toast and twirl.

Skincare Staples for That Post-Feast Glow

Nothing says “holiday ready” like skin that’s hydrated and luminous, especially after indulging in rich dishes like our fricasé. Start with Avon’s Anew Ultimate Multi-Performance Night Cream—this powerhouse works overnight to smooth fine lines and plump with hyaluronic acid, waking you up to a refreshed canvas. Pair it with the Anew Vitamin C Brightening Serum for a vitamin-packed boost that fights dullness and evens tone, perfect for those late-night family chats. At under $30 each, they’re affordable luxuries that deliver spa-level results without the spa price.

Makeup Magic for Festive Flair

Amp up your look with a pop of color that lasts through the laughter (and maybe a few spills). The Avon fmg Glimmer in Chilli red glides on creamy and stays put, giving you that confident, kiss-proof smile for midnight countdowns. For eyes that mesmerize, try the Glazewear Sparkling Shadow Stick—a shimmery wand that blends effortlessly for subtle daytime glam or smoky evening drama. Holiday-proof and buildable, these are in my clutch every time.

Fragrance That Lingers Like Memories

Seal the night with a scent that’s warm and inviting, like the spices in our turkey stew. Avon’s Far Away Morrocon Nights Perfume is my go-to—notes of exotic orchid and amber that evoke far-off adventures, minus the jet lag. It’s long-lasting but light, so you won’t overwhelm the room during close-quarters toasts.

Fashion Finds to Steal the Show

Step into the season’s softest seduction with Avon’s Faux-Fur-Trim Dress, where cozy meets couture in a whisper of winter whimsy. This knee-skimming sheath, spun from buttery-soft faux suede in a lush merlot red that rivals holiday holly, drapes elegantly over your silhouette with a subtle stretch for all-night ease—whether you’re ladling Pavo en Fricassé or leading the conga line. The star? Plush faux-fur accents at the neckline and hem, fluffy as fresh snowfall yet cruelty-free, framing your décolletage like a flirtatious frame while hidden side seams ensure a flawless fit from brunch to bubbly hour.

This holiday, let’s make it about more than turkey and trimmings—let’s bloom into our best selves. Head over to Avon Online Store to snag these picks and discover your new favorites. What’s your holiday glow-up secret? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear! ¡Feliz fiestas!

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