Christmas is fast approaching, and you're wondering what you could serve your family for dinner. While for most people, the traditional roast turkey and Yule log are a must, I can understand that some of us might want a change. Good news if you're one of them: there are hundreds of recipes you can try for a unique Christmas because, as you can imagine, traditions vary greatly from country to country. So we've put together a list of 10 dishes to serve for Christmas that have been inspired by specialties from around the world.
Mexican tamales
In Latin America, corn dough stuffed with meat, vegetables, or cheese is eaten during the holiday season. It is wrapped in corn husks and steamed. The result is a soft texture that melts in your mouth with refreshing spices.
Italian panettone
If you've ever visited Milan, you're probably familiar with this soft brioche filled with raisins, candied fruit, and sprinkled with citrus zest. Taller than regular brioches, it has a light texture that gives it a pleasant lightness, made even better when a little chocolate is added.
Polish pierogi
A very popular winter dish in Poland, these dumplings are often filled with potatoes, cottage cheese, mushrooms, sauerkraut, meat, or blueberries. Not exclusively reserved for Christmas meals, pierogi will warm your heart as soon as they enter your mouth. Try them as soon as you get the chance!
Bacalhau da Consoada
In Portugal, dried cod was initially eaten during Lent, but its popularity has made it a staple of Christmas Eve dinner. The traditional recipe involves boiling it with vegetables and olive oil, but you can also make a gratin with cream.
Tandoori chicken
We all know that Indians love spices! And we have to admit that when you marinate chicken in a mixture of colorful spices and yogurt before baking it, the result is exquisite, both in terms of taste and appearance. This is just what you need to impress your guests.
Lechón
Roast suckling pig is a festive dish in the Caribbean and the Philippines. Marinated or stuffed with garlic and citrus fruits, it must be roasted slowly on a spit over hot coals. And the wait is worth it, because the result is a wonderfully crispy skin that is a delight for the taste buds!
Japanese curry
Japanese kari is a must-try for those who love Asian cuisine but can't handle too much spice. It can be made with vegetables, beef, or chicken, and its thicker texture is so comforting during the holidays. It is usually served with rice, and a vegetarian version is also available.
Gravlax salmon
Want something original that's also easy to prepare? Gravlax salmon ticks all the boxes. This Scandinavian specialty involves drying a salmon fillet marinated in salt, dill, sugar, and pepper. You can then enjoy it with a little sauce or with potatoes.
Fruit pavlova
This dessert, which originated in Australia and New Zealand, is simple to prepare but requires a fairly long time to bake and cool. It consists of a meringue coated with whipped cream and topped with fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, etc.
South African bobotie
In concrete terms, it is a mixture of minced meat, spices, dried fruit, and eggs that is baked in the oven. You can expect a complex blend of flavors, including sweet, salty, and a little spice. A festive national dish in South Africa, it will take you to unexplored horizons.