'Tis the season for gluttony: 5 Christmas party dishes

Photo credit: canstockphotos

Top 5 must-have dishes for your holiday party

It's that time of the year again when you have a good excuse to break out the wine, splurge on gifts for loved ones (and yourself, if you so please), and invite friends and family over to sit down for a Christmas feast. Here are five out of many traditional Christmas dishes to look forward to during this period.

1. Roast turkey

When planning the main dishes, roast turkey definitely tops the list. Succulent and juicy, when done right, it's sure to be a crowd favourite.


Photo credit: Tim Pierce via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Roast turkey is one of the most popular Christmas dinner main dishes not just in Singapore, but also around the world. The tradition of serving roast turkey started in England in the 17th century, and has continued to be a must-have during the Yuletide season.

The roast turkey is usually brined before cooking, allowing it to become moist before roasting. Occasionally, the turkey is stuffed with fillings such as cornbread, sausage meat, and other ingredients to add some extra flavour.

2. Christmas ham

Another popular main dish is Christmas ham, and is usually served alongside roast turkey.


Photo credit: Jessica Spengler via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Serving ham was originally a German New Year pagan tradition before being adapted by the Roman Catholic Church. Eating ham was used as a test for Judaism converts as a way to prove that they had given up their faith.

The most common way to prepare ham for Christmas is as gammon ham steaks. The thick and circular cut produces the thickest portion of meat. When served during Christmas, the ham is usually glazed with honey and boiled with spices.

3. Mashed potatoes

When it comes to side dishes, you can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes. Potatoes are perfect because they are a great accompaniment to any main dish.


Photo credit: jeffreyw via Flickr (Creative Commons)

The versatile side dish complements any kind of meat, and nothing works better for your turkey and roast beef than mashed potatoes with cranberry sauce. The dish is easy to make, although getting the right consistency and fluffiness requires patience and some skill.

4. Green bean casserole

A classic vegetable side dish for your Christmas dinner is green bean casserole.


Photo credit: Jessica Rossi via Flickr (Creative Commons)

This well-liked dish works well with the main dishes, and is quick and easy to make. Simple yet delicious, this vegetable dish consists of two main ingredients: mushrooms and green beans, and can also include French fried onions.

5. Chocolate Yule log


Photo credit: Aaron Jacobs via Flickr (Creative Commons)

What would Christmas be without a log cake to finish off the meal? Originating from France, the chocolate Yule log is a popular Christmas dessert, and is usually a chocolate Swiss roll decorated with icing and frosting to resemble snow. It even has edible leaves, berries, and fake branches to complete the look. 

Everyone looks forward to special treats during this festive season, and this includes everything from the gifts to the delicious food. When planning your Christmas dinner, think of foods that are heartwarming and comforting so that you can enjoy a great evening with your loved ones. Fortunately, even if cooking is not your strong suit, you can get catering services to ensure that this special occasion will be a success. 

Visit SgFave's business directory for caterers to help you prepare the perfect Christmas meal. Check our Christmas consumer guide to find out about Christmas preparation tips and related businesses in Singapore.