Christmas traditions are as diverse as the cultures that celebrate them, and so too are the dishes that make up holiday meals around the world. This year, step outside the usual holiday fare and explore festive dishes from around the globe that will infuse your holiday menu with new flavours and stories. From the savoury roasts of Europe to the sweet treats of Asia, here’s a guide to some of the most iconic Christmas dishes from around the world, perfect for adding an international twist to your holiday table.
Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes
In Italy, especially in coastal regions, Christmas Eve is marked by La Vigilia, the Feast of the Seven Fishes. This tradition involves a variety of seafood dishes served throughout the evening, with seven different types of fish (though the exact number can vary). Common choices include baccalà (salted cod), calamari (squid), shrimp, and anchovies, prepared in a variety of ways - fried, stewed, or in pasta dishes. This meal is symbolic of the tradition of abstaining from meat on Christmas Eve. Paired with Italian grape, fresh bread, and a variety of antipasti, the Feast of the Seven Fishes is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage.
Swedish Julbord – Christmas Smorgasbord
In Sweden, Christmas is a grand affair, celebrated with a lavish buffet called julbord. A festive spread, julbord includes an array of dishes that are meant to be shared among family and friends. The centrepiece is usually julskinka, which is glazed with mustard and brown sugar, then served alongside lutfisk (dried fish reconstituted in lye), pickled herring and various cheeses. For dessert, knäck (Swedish toffee) and pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) are commonly served, along with a warm glass of glögg (spiced mulled grape). The julbord offers a cozy and celebratory way to bring everyone together over traditional holiday favourites.
Mexican Bacalao a la Vizcaína
In Mexico, Christmas dinner often includes bacalao a la vizcaína, a rich and flavourful salt cod stew. This dish is prepared with salted cod, tomatoes, olives, capers, and various spices, creating a savuory, slightly tangy flavour profile. Bacalao is usually accompanied by ponche (a warm fruit punch made with tejocotes, guavas, and sugarcane), and it is traditionally served as part of the Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) dinner. The dish’s deep, comforting flavours make it a favourite holiday treat that carries with it a sense of tradition and warmth.
British Christmas Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding
In the UK, Christmas dinner is often centreed around a hearty roast, with roast beef being a common choice. The beef is typically seasoned with salt and pepper and roasted to a perfect medium-rare, served alongside Yorkshire pudding, crispy roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and rich gravy. The addition of Yorkshire pudding - a savoury, golden batter baked in beef drippings - is a traditional side that perfectly complements the roast. This classic British holiday meal is a deliciously rich affair, full of bold flavours and comfort.
German Stollen
In Germany, Christmas isn’t complete without stollen, a dense, fruit-filled bread that’s rich with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. This traditional Christmas bread is studded with dried fruits, candied peel, and often marzipan, then dusted with powdered sugar. Stollen is usually enjoyed with a cup of Glühwein, and its dense, sweet, and spicy flavour makes it a perfect addition to any holiday spread. The bread is often made in advance and stored, as the taste improves over time, making it the perfect make-ahead treat for Christmas.
