A Tradition Honored: Christmas Dinner Menu and Beyond
The magic of Christmas dinner lies not just in the Christmas dinner menu, but in the cherished traditions that have been passed down for generations. For many families, this is a time when time-honored practices are celebrated and embraced, regardless of how much the world changes around us.
Continuing Family Traditions
As the years go by, even after children have left home and started their own families, many of our beloved traditions remain intact. This is reflected in the recurring menu choices during the holiday season. For instance, every Christmas, my household still adheres to the same Christmas dinner menu passed down by my mother. It's always a beef Wellington, gammon, a baked potato with dauphinois potatoes, creamed spinach, and glazed carrots. The starter is always a warm, comforting soup. Puddings are always trifle, fruit salad, and Christmas pudding, a symbol of good fortune and joyous celebrations.
Our Family's Christmas Dinner
For our big holiday dinner, we will have a prawn cocktail starter with my husband's special sauce and fresh brown bread, accompanied by a glass of champagne to kick off this special occasion. The main course will be a roasted turkey with gravy, accompanied by our most beloved vegetables: mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls. For those who prefer something different, there will be sweet potatoes, butternut squash bake stuffed shells, or lasagna from my sister's side of the family. The day ends with my homemade Christmas pudding, a dessert that's a cherished tradition in our household.
My Sister's Christmas Dinner
My sister, on the other hand, is preparing her own version of the traditional British Christmas dinner menu. She will start with turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and vegetables (maybe sweet potatoes and butternut squash), followed by a delicious lasagna and a variety of desserts. For some, this means multiple helpings of her special recipes, while for others, it means trying something new. There's a sense of excitement about the diverse family traditions, each with its own unique flavor and customs.
The Traditional Scandinavian Christmas Dinner
While some families stick to the classic British Christmas dinner, others may opt for a different cultural tradition. The traditional traditional British Christmas, however, is a staple for many. It usually starts with a starter such as a prawn cocktail, which is a light and refreshing way to begin the meal. The main course features a roast turkey, accompanied by all the usual accompaniments: stuffing and mashed potatoes, carrots and brussels sprouts, peas in a cheese sauce, and gravy made from the turkey giblet stock. Finally, a traditional meal will always conclude with a homemade Christmas pudding and brandy sauce, a delightful way to end a feast.
Whatever the holiday meal preparation may be, the spirit of the season is what truly matters. It's all about coming together with loved ones, sharing stories, and enjoying each other's company. Whether it's a classic British Christmas dinner or something altogether different, the spirit of giving and togetherness remains the same.
As we start this tradition, let's embrace these customs and keep the joy and warmth of the holiday season alive for generations to come. After all, it's not just about the food; it's about the love and memories shared around the table. Happy Holidays!