Christmas is a time when family and friends come together to celebrate the season. It is known for its rich traditions, dating back centuries and encompassing a wide range of cultural customs. Among the most cherished are giving, socialising, sharing stories and, of course, preparing and eating delicious food. At this time of year, houses smell of spices, roasted meats and sweet delicacies, creating a special atmosphere that can only be felt once a year.
When thinking about what to put on the table for Christmas dinner, it is important to consider not only the flavours, but also the meaning of each dish. Some dishes have become a symbol of Christmas because of their historical or cultural connection, others because of their ability to bring people together around the table. In this spirit, we have come up with some great ideas that not only satisfy the taste buds, but also reflect the spirit of celebration.
1. Main course
Roast chicken marinated in buttermilk
Roast chicken is a classic that always goes down a treat. To make your chicken extra tasty, marinate it in buttermilk. This dish is a great choice if you want something traditional but with an interesting twist.
Pork roast in pepper sauce and pea puree
Pork roast is a great choice for those who like meat dishes. For an extra tasty note, prepare pepper sauce and pea puree. This combination is sure to delight your guests.
Salmon in puff pastry
If you''re not a meat lover, salmon is a great alternative. For an even more festive effect, wrap it in puff pastry and bake it in the oven. This dish is sure to impress your guests.
2. Side dishes
Tasty side dishes: Vegetable tian, roast potatoes
A variety of side dishes go well with the main dishes. Vegetable tian is a tasty and healthy side dish that is sure to impress your guests. In addition, baked potatoes always work well.
Vegetable tian is an elegant and simple dish prepared by slicing different vegetables such as courgettes, tomatoes, aubergines, and red peppers into equally thick slices. The vegetables are then placed close together in a baking dish, usually in a circular or longitudinal pattern, and seasoned with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Bake everything together in a preheated oven at a medium temperature (about 180 °C) until soft and slightly golden brown, about 30 to 45 minutes. Tian can be served as a side dish or as a light main course.
Salad: Pear salad with gorgonzola
Don''t forget the salad! The quick and easy pear salad with gorgonzola will be a feast for the eyes and a tasty accompaniment to other dishes.
3. Dessert
Traditional Christmas desserts: biscuits, cake
Christmas is not really Christmas without dessert. Traditional Christmas biscuits or cake are always a good choice. In addition, you can also prepare other desserts such as various cakes or pastries.
The queen of Christmas desserts, the cake is the centre of the festive table and a symbol of hospitality and abundance. Characterised by its spiral shape and rich filling, it is a true art of baking, combining traditional flavours and the skill of handmade craftsmanship. Its dough, soft and tender, serves as a canvas for a variety of fillings - the most popular being walnut, poppy, raisin or curd. The preparation of the cake takes time and patience, as the dough must be kneaded well and then left to rise before being rolled out and spread with the filling. After rolling and baking, which creates a golden-brown crust, the potica is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Served as the centrepiece of a Christmas feast, potica is not only a dessert but also an expression of the culinary heritage and warmth of home.
4. Drinks for Christmas Dinner
Wine: Harmony of Tastes
Choosing the right wine is key to complementing the flavours of the dish. Consider red or white wine, depending on the main course chosen.
If you''re tired of traditional drinks, offer mulled gin - a modern festive drink that combines the rich flavours of gin with spices such as cardamom, cinnamon and orange peel to create a warm and fragrant drink. Use our Spice Mix for strudel and pie. This innovative drink is ideal for those looking for an alternative to traditional mulled wine. In addition, hot apple cider is also popular during the festive period and is often served with the addition of spices such as cinnamon and cloves. This cider is an excellent choice for a family Christmas dinner, as it is suitable for both adults and children. Both mulled gin and hot apple cider offer warmth and spiciness that are perfect for the festive atmosphere.
During this festive season, when homes are filled with warmth and joy, Christmas dinner time is an opportunity to bond with loved ones over a table full of delicious dishes. From classic dishes such as roast chicken and vegetable tian, to mouth-watering desserts such as cake and innovative festive drinks such as mulled gin and hot apple cider, every meal is an opportunity to celebrate and create unforgettable memories.
A festive dinner is more than just a meal; it is an expression of love, tradition and shared joy. May your table be full, your home warm, and your heart full of joy. Merry Christmas!