On the 17th of December……dinner is served…at least it will be on 25th!

As I mentioned in yesterday’s post about traditions, cooking (and eating) a traditional Christmas Dinner is one of my highlights.

My daughters usually help set the table in the dining room, one of the few times we eat in there! We usually have some fun writing out the menu and  making place cards.  Planning a red and silver theme this year. This photo is how it looked last year.

Crackers are another part of the tradition – even though the paper hats never fit, the jokes are terrible, and the “gifts” aren’t up to much – we love them!!!

Here is what we usually serve (this year for 12 – 7 adults and 5 kids)

We don’t always serve a starter, but if we do it will be something light and simple – melon, brie and cranberry filo parcels, a small salad.

The Main Course (and the main event!)

Turkey – of course – to me it isn’t Christmas Day without the turkey

Baked and roast ham (my Mum always provides this, my one attempt was NOT a success!)

Potatoes – roast and mashed would be traditional, but we usually serve “riced” potatoes using my inherited potato ricer

Veg – a selection, which must include some sprouts, usually carrots as well

Maybe honey roast parsnips

Then all the trimmings – cranberry sauce (Marks and Spencers do a particularly delicious one), lots of gravy, little cocktail sausages

My mother in law used to make an amazing amount of side dishes, and every Christmas a dish would be discovered during the washing up that had been forgotten to be served!

Dessert (Not that we have any need OR room for it)

For the traditionalists among us we have Christmas pudding – served with custard or brandy butter – again Marks and Spencers usually oblige. I have yet to attempt a Christmas pudding … I know my limitations.

For the rest of us – pavlova or fruit salad

Later on, when the dishes are done and our tummys have settled, there will be coffee, christmas cake and probably some chocolates from under the Christmas tree.  Mini mince pies, and maybe a cheese board will do for tea, although some are ready for some leftover turkey and ham already.

So how does this compare with what you eat on Christmas Day?   I would love to know. What bits do you make from scratch, and what parts do you take shortcuts with?!!

Over 70% of schools were closed here in Northern Ireland following the worst snow in 25 years, and it is set to continue for the next few days. I would predict some snowy photos on my blog tomorrow.