Christmas celebrations wouldn’t be complete without the centerpiece of roast turkey or ham, while a warm, indulgent pudding is the perfect dessert. These beloved British dishes are staples at family gatherings during the holiday season, often accompanied by an assortment of other festive favorites. As you ponder which traditional Christmas treats to serve, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of must-haves that will leave you craving more and get you in the holiday spirit.
Roast Turkey
Turkey takes center stage on many a Christmas dinner table, its popularity rivaled only by its nutritional benefits. As a rich source of protein, it’s sure to keep you satisfied until the afternoon. When it comes to cooking this festive favorite, stuffing is key. By filling the turkey with delicious aromas before roasting, you’ll ensure a juicy, mouthwatering centerpiece for your holiday feast.
To achieve perfection, preheat your oven to 190C/gas mark 5 and position the bird breast side down in a large roasting tin. Cover the tin with foil and roast for 20 minutes per kilo, then remove the foil and continue cooking for an additional 90 minutes. Verify the turkey’s doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into its thickest thigh portion. If the temperature reaches 70°C/160°F and the juices run clear, it’s ready to be devoured.
Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Bread Sauce
Bread sauce is a quintessential British Christmas tradition that brings people together around the festive table. This versatile condiment has been a staple at many a holiday gathering for centuries, with its origins tracing back to medieval times when cooks would use leftover bread to thicken sauces and make sure nothing went to waste. Today, bread sauce remains a beloved favorite in British households during the Christmas season because of its ability to complement a wide range of dishes.
Whether it’s served hot or cold, this tasty addition is always a crowd-pleaser. To create your own delicious bread sauce at home, you’ll need:* 600ml milk* 50g butter* 1 chopped onion* Garlic* 6 peppercorns* A bay leaf* Thyme* 100g breadcrumbs* 4 tbsp cream* Grated nutmegCombine the milk, onions, butter, cloves, peppercorns, herbs, and garlic in a pan and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain the mixture and return the liquid to the pan. Add the breadcrumbs and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Finally, stir in the cream and nutmeg before serving.
Mince Pies
Mince pies are an integral part of British Christmas celebrations, offering a sweet and indulgent treat after the holiday meal. The traditional filling consists of a mixture of dried fruits and nuts, suet, and generous amounts of butter, topped with a lavish dollop of thick cream. With a history dating back to the Middle Ages, mince pies didn’t become synonymous with Christmas until the Victorian era.
Today, there are two primary varieties: the shortcrust type featuring flaky pastry and the open-top version showcasing sweetened fruit fillings. For those looking to indulge in these festive treats at home, it’s possible to purchase pre-made options or bake them from scratch using puff pastry, mincemeat, and a pinch of icing sugar. To create your own mince pies, simply roll out the dough, cut circles, and fill them with the sweet mixture.
Fold the edges over the filling, brush with an egg wash, and seal the edges with a fork before baking at 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6 for 10 to 12 minutes. Once cooled, dust with icing sugar and serve.
Braised Red Cabbage
In Britain, red cabbage is a beloved side dish at Christmas gatherings. The secret to preserving its signature crunch, vibrant color, and rich flavor lies in a gentle cooking process. Start by boiling the cabbage, then transition it to a low heat simmer for 30 minutes. This slow-cooking method allows the natural sweetness of the cabbage to shine through.
To take your red cabbage to the next level, consider adding a pinch of pepper, a pat of butter, or a splash of vinegar to elevate its flavor profile.
Traditional British Christmas Pudding
In British tradition, Christmas pudding is a beloved staple of holiday gatherings, typically crafted from a medley of sweet and savory ingredients like currants, raisins, sultanas, candied peel, dates, glacé cherries, almonds, mixed spice, and rum. The mixture is then contained within a cloth bag and steamed or boiled to perfection.
This festive dessert has been an integral part of British Christmas celebrations since the 14th century, when it was referred to as ‘frumenty.
‘ Initially, frumenty consisted of mutton, beef, raisins, currants, wine, and spices, and was enjoyed throughout the holiday season, rather than being reserved solely for Christmas Day.
For a simple yet satisfying Christmas pudding, one can combine all the ingredients in a cloth bag, tie it securely, and boil it for three hours. As the pudding cooks, its flavors will meld together, resulting in an even more delectable treat.
Roast Potatoes
Roasting potatoes is an incredibly popular method for cooking them, and it’s something that people of all ages enjoy doing, regardless of the season. However, there’s no denying that roasting potatoes takes on a special significance during the holiday season, when they’re often served alongside other festive favorites.
When it comes to achieving the perfect roast, the key is to combine simplicity with a touch of finesse.
To start, place your potatoes in a large roasting tin, then sprinkle a generous amount of salt over them before drizzling with oil. Finally, give the tin a good shake to ensure every potato is evenly coated.
The end result is a dish that’s not only delicious on its own but also serves as the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of flavors.
And, for added depth and complexity, you can always add some fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage – or even a sprinkle of garlic powder – before serving.
Cranberry Sauce
For centuries, cranberries have been an integral part of British cuisine, often used to add a burst of flavor to hearty stews and soups. As the 20th century progressed, their sweet and tangy taste found its way into desserts, and today they’re a staple in many sauces and jams. This festive favorite has become so deeply ingrained in Christmas traditions that it’s hard not to associate cranberries with the holiday season.
In fact, they’re a crucial ingredient in many British classics, including cranberry sauce, brie and cranberry sandwiches, and cranberry jelly.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have a rich history that dates back to the 5th century in northern Europe. Specifically, they originated in the Brussels region of Belgium, which lends them their name. Over time, their popularity grew and spread throughout Europe, eventually making its way to Britain. Today, these small yet mighty vegetables are a beloved staple of British roast dinners, including Christmas celebrations where they often take center stage.
When roasted to perfection and paired with ingredients like butter, olive oil, vinegar, pepper, and more, Brussels sprouts showcase their natural flavor in all its glory.
British Ploughman’s Lunch
In Britain, few foods evoke a sense of national identity like the humble Ploughman’s lunch. A staple of working-class cuisine for generations, this satisfying repast has become an integral part of the country’s culinary heritage. At its core is a simple yet flavorful sandwich, typically filled with cheese, pickle, potato crisps, and a cold slice of meat – a combination that may not sound exciting on paper but is, in fact, a masterclass in understated elegance.
While originally designed as a fuel-efficient meal for laborers, the Ploughman’s lunch has transcended its working-class roots to become a beloved institution at British Christmas gatherings. It’s not uncommon to see these unassuming sandwiches served alongside roasted turkey or ham, their rustic charm providing a delightful contrast to the more formal trappings of the holiday season.
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding, a quintessential English accompaniment, is often overlooked despite its rich history. The traditional method of preparation involves combining flour, milk, eggs, and seasonings to create a batter that’s then cooked in a hot pan. This delectable treat has long been a staple at British tables, particularly during the festive season when it’s paired with roast meats like beef.
In fact, the classic combination of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding is an integral part of many families’ Christmas celebrations. Whether you’re looking to add some traditional flair to your holiday gatherings or simply seeking to expand your culinary repertoire, mastering the art of making Yorkshire puddings is a must.
Roast Beef
Roast beef is an integral component of many British Christmas dinner spreads, typically served alongside roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy, stuffing, and peas. The meat’s preparation involves the ‘rolling’ technique, where it’s wrapped tightly in foil before roasting. This method helps to lock in moisture and preserve juiciness, yielding a more flavorful final product.
By employing this approach, cooks can achieve a tender and savory roast beef that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Parsnips
Parsnips, a staple in the Mediterranean region, have gained widespread recognition globally. Their versatility has made them a favorite among chefs, who cleverly incorporate them into their culinary creations. Typically, parsnips are used in soups, stews, and casseroles, but they also shine when roasted, often being a mainstay of Christmas celebrations.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts have a rich history dating back to ancient China, where they were first cultivated around 2200 BC. From there, cultivation spread throughout central Asia and eventually reached Europe during the Middle Ages. England was one of the earliest European adopters, with the nuts initially serving as a food source for livestock before being introduced to human consumption.
By the 18th century, roasted chestnuts had become a popular street food in London, and their appeal only grew stronger over time. Today, they’re closely tied to Christmas traditions and are often featured in festive treats like mince pies, cakes, and other sweet delights, as well as being enjoyed on their own.
Stuffing
The quintessential British Christmas dinner staple, stuffing is a harmonious blend of breadcrumbs, dried fruit, herbs, and seasonings. This mixture typically originates from stale bread and serves as a flavorful filling under the skin of poultry, game birds, or occasionally pork loins. When paired with roasted turkey, goose, duck, or chicken, stuffing is an indispensable component of any respectable British Christmas dinner.
The process of crafting this delectable side dish involves soaking breadcrumbs in water, subsequently draining excess liquid, and incorporating dried fruits, herbs, salt, pepper, and spices. The resulting mixture is then carefully packed into the bird and slow-cooked to a golden brown perfection.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine, a warm and aromatic beverage, originates from the ancient tradition of mixing red wine with spices, sugar, and water. The process, known as ‘mulling’, gives rise to its name. This delightful drink has long been a staple of winter celebrations, particularly around Christmas time when it’s often served at festive gatherings and holiday dinners.
Pigs In Blankets
Pigs in blankets, a quintessential English Christmas tradition, typically consist of plump sausages swaddled in rich, savory bacon, then expertly cooked until the bacon is crispy and golden. The final product is nothing short of heavenly, often served warm and indulgently paired with a drizzle of rich gravy for added depth and complexity.
Gravy
Gravy is a type of thickened sauce that typically accompanies meat dishes like roast beef, lamb, pork, and veal. Its versatility stems from the fact that it can be prepared in various ways. You can opt for store-bought granules or create your own by combining stock, flour, and seasoning, then simmering the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. For added convenience, you can also purchase ready-made gravies in a range of flavors, including mushroom, tomato, and Worcestershire sauce.
Whether you prefer a homemade or store-bought approach, gravy is a staple condiment that adds depth and richness to many meals.
Final Thoughts
With an array of beloved traditional British Christmas dishes, the festive season is sure to be filled with delicious meals and warm gatherings. Prepare to indulge in a variety of mouthwatering options that evoke the spirit of holiday cheer.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.