THE TOP 10 HOLIDAY MEALS

Based on our research and analysis of our website data, we have carefully selected and compiled a list of The Top 10 Holiday Meals from around the world  for your Christmas or Holiday Feast. Get ready to be pleasantly surprised by the wide array of options at your disposal. Will any of these delectable choices grace your holiday menu? Feel free to share your favorite in the comments below, even if it’s not on our list.

1. Roast Turkey

History: The tradition of serving turkey at Christmas dates back to the 16th century in England. Turkeys were introduced to Europe from the Americas, and by the 19th century, they became a symbol of a festive feast.

Popularity: Its popularity during Christmas is due to its size, making it suitable for larger gatherings. Also, its juicy meat and the ability to complement various flavors and stuffing have made it a staple of holiday celebrations.

Brined Roasted Turkey Recipe from @Grillin_With_Dad Recipe + Video – Click Here

2. Ham

History: The tradition of serving ham during Christmas has roots in Northern European countries. It was initially associated with pagan winter festivals and later adapted into Christian celebrations.

Popularity: Ham gained popularity due to its rich flavor and ease of preparation. It’s often glazed with sweet sauces like honey or brown sugar, adding to its appeal during the holidays.

Pineapple-Glazed Kurobuta Bone-in Ham with Bourbon-Cherry Sauce Recipe + Video – Click Here

3. Prime Rib

History: Prime rib has been a popular dish since the 18th century in England. The term “prime” originally meant the meat sourced from the primal rib section of the animal, known for its exceptional popularity and top-notch quality.

Popularity: Its tenderness and marbling make it an indulgent choice for a holiday meal. The slow roasting process retains its juiciness, making it a favorite among beef lovers.

Chris Sussman’s American Wagyu Prime Rib Roast Recipe + Video – Click Here

4. Beef Tenderloin

History: Beef tenderloin, known for its tenderness, has been a prized cut of meat for centuries. It gained popularity among royalty and the wealthy due to its luxurious texture.

Popularity: Its tenderness and ability to be seasoned with various herbs and spices make it an elegant choice for a special occasion like Christmas.

Classic Beef Tenderloin Recipe – Click Here

5. Lamb

History: Lamb has been a traditional dish in many cultures for centuries, symbolizing sacrifice and celebration. It has historical significance in religious feasts and festivals.

Popularity: Its unique flavor and versatility in cooking methods contribute to its popularity during Christmas, especially in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Dijon Crusted Rack of Lamb Recipe – Click Here

6. Lasagna

History: Lasagna’s origins trace back to ancient Greece, but its modern form developed in Italy during the Middle Ages.

Popularity: While not a traditional Christmas dish in many cultures, its hearty layers of pasta, cheese, sauce, and meat (if wanted) make it a comforting and popular option, especially for those seeking a non-traditional meal.

Grilled Lasagna Recipe (veggie or add meat) – Click Here

7. Beef Wellington

History: Beef Wellington, a dish consisting of fillet steak coated with pâté and duxelles, wrapped in puff pastry, has British origins.

Popularity: Its luxurious presentation and rich flavors have made it a popular choice for special occasions, including Christmas dinners.

Beef Wellington Recipe – Click Here

8. Salmon

History: Salmon has been a significant part of Nordic Christmas traditions, particularly in countries like Sweden and Norway, where it symbolizes abundance and good health.

Popularity: Its versatility in preparation and rich taste make it a popular alternative to meat-based dishes, especially for those who prefer seafood.

Cedar-Planked Salmon Recipe – Click Here

9. Vegetarian or Vegan Options

History: While not tied to a specific historical tradition, the rise of vegetarian and vegan options during Christmas dinners reflects a growing cultural shift towards plant-based diets.

Popularity: With an increasing number of people adopting vegetarian or vegan lifestyles, offering plant-based options during Christmas caters to diverse dietary preferences.

Veggie Noodle Stir-Fry Recipe – Click Here

10. Tamales

History: Tamales have ancient Mesoamerican origins and have been a traditional dish during Christmas in Latin American countries for centuries.

Popularity: Their flavorful fillings wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves make them a cherished holiday dish, symbolizing family unity and celebration.

We didn’t have a tamale recipe on the website (we’ll work on that) but you can also count on our EGGhead Forum for great recipes, tips, and advice.
Christmas Tamale Recipe – Click Here

These dishes showcase the diverse culinary traditions and preferences that enrich Christmas or holiday celebrations worldwide. Whether it’s a classic roast turkey or a culturally specific dish like tamales, these meals bring people together to celebrate the holiday spirit.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from around the world – French: Joyeuses Fêtes, Spanish: Felices Fiestas, German: Frohe Feiertage, Italian: Buone Feste, Portuguese: Felizes Festas, Dutch: Vrolijke Feestdagen, Swedish: Goda Helger, Russian: Счастливых праздников, Japanese: ハッピーホリデー, Chinese (Mandarin): 节日快乐, Arabic: عطلات سعيدة, Korean: 행복한 휴일 보내세요, Greek: Καλές διακοπές, Hindi: हैप्पी हॉलिडे, Turkish: Mutlu Tatiller, Polish: Wesołych Świąt, Finnish: Hyvää Joulua, Vietnamese: Lễ hội vui vẻ, Norwegian: God Ferie, Danish: Glædelig ferie, Thai: สุขสันต์วันหยุด, Icelandic: Gleðileg jól, Hebrew: חג שמח, Filipino: Maligayang Pasko, Swahili: Likizo Njema, Romanian: Sărbători fericite, Ukrainian: Щасливих свят, Malay: Selamat Hari Raya, Czech: Veselé svátky, Indonesian: Selamat Hari Raya