Christmas Gastronomy around the World

British traditional Xmas day dinner is roast turkey with brussel sprouts, roast potatoes, stuffing, pigs in blankets and gravy, but Xmas dinner is very different around the world. Here we take a look at a few other traditions. Most European countries tend to have their main Xmas celebrations on December 24th rather than on Xmas day.

Italy

In Rome Xmas eve is probably more important than Xmas day. Families attend midnight mass after first gathering for dinner. Traditionally the meal is meat free so consists of several types of fish, with starters of anti-pasta. Each region varies in its traditions so some may have spinach & ricotta ravioli. Christmas Day dinner goes on for hours! Starters of anti pasta or Parma ham, then filled pasta. Next is the roast with an abundance of vegetables followed by sponge cake. As is the case in most countries, the left overs get used up on Boxing day. My favourite part of the Italian Xmas tradition is that the children do not write letters to santa asking for expensive gifts but rather write a letter to their parents telling them how much they love them. If you are planning on spending xmas in Italy, make sure you book your car hire in Rome early.

France

In France there are celebrations on Xmas eve when they have a long dinner party. Traditionally they go to church and then have the meal when they get home, after which they open the presents. The meal consits of fish, crepes, 7 meatless dishes, 13 deserts(symbolising Jesus and the 12 apostles), roast game or fowl(served after midnight), cheeses and regional wines. This will vary depending on the region, so in Burgundy they will feast on turkey and chestnuts whereas in Paris they are more likely to be eating oysters and pate de foie gras! It goes without saying that the Xmas day dinner is slightly less grand . Spending a romantic xmas in France, don't forget your car hire in Paris to make your trip complete.

Spain

Xmas eve is when families get together for a feast eaten late in the evening and lasts for hours. Gifts are not exchanged though, this is done on Epiphany - 6th January. A typical Spanish menu would be tapas to start. The first course could be fish soup, white asparagus or seafood pasta. Main course is roast meat or poultry with roast potatoes and salad. Desert is traditional Spanish sweets and biscuits. There are so many regions in Spain, like France, so each one will have its own signature dishes.Travelling to Spain this xmas? Book your car hire in Madrid now to avoid missing out!