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Around the world, baked dishes have been a part of Christmas and New Year's Eve events for a long time. They bring warmth, richness, and holiday flavours. In many Western countries, baking is an important part of the holiday season. Families get together to make sweet and savoury foods like roasts and pastries. Seasonal foods like dried fruits, spices, and nuts are used to make these meals, which makes the table feel cosy. Baking is also a part of tradition, as recipes are passed down from generation to generation and homes are filled with the delicious smells of roasting foods and sweet treats.
Video Credit: Recipetin Eats
In India, Christmas and New Year's meals may be different depending on the area, but baking is becoming more and more important. In places like Kerala, Goa, and Bengal, baked meats and breads are common at holiday meals. The flavours come from both local and foreign influences. Adding spices, nuts, and dried fruits to baked goods gives them a unique flavour and brings out the country's rich culinary history. In India, baking during the holidays brings families and communities together. It's a way to celebrate with hearty, tasty meals that make the day feel warm and happy. Whether it's for a big meal or a small get-together try these savoury baked dishes that are popular across the globe.
Roasted Stuffed Turkey
While no Thanksgiving day is complete without a roasted stuffed turkey, it has become an important dish for Christmas and New Year's Eve menus as well. This dish takes center stage at any festive meal with its crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. The stuffing, often made with a mix of bread, herbs, and sometimes sausage, complements the flavours of the turkey perfectly. You can infuse the turkey with additional flavours by using ingredients such as cranberries, apples, or chestnuts in the stuffing. Roasting the Turkey at a slow, steady temperature ensures the perfect texture, and the result is a glorious, golden centerpiece that will impress guests.
Baked Ham With Pineapple Glaze
Baked ham with a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze is a holiday classic. The ham is first glazed with a mixture of pineapple juice, brown sugar, mustard, and cloves, which caramelizes as the ham bakes in the oven. The result is a beautiful contrast between the savoury ham and the sweet, sticky glaze. Serve it sliced alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and you have an unforgettable dish that’s both easy to make and crowd-pleasing.
Vegetable Shepherd's Pie
For a vegetarian twist on a classic, a vegetable shepherd’s pie is a hearty and satisfying dish. The base consists of sautéed vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, and mushrooms, cooked in a savory gravy and layered under a generous amount of mashed potatoes. When baked, the top forms a crisp golden crust, while the vegetables remain tender and flavourful beneath. This dish is perfect for those seeking a comforting vegetarian option or for guests who prefer plant-based meals during the holidays.
Baked Mac And Cheese
Rich, creamy, and decadent, baked macaroni and cheese is a holiday favourite that brings both nostalgia and indulgence to the table. The combination of tender pasta and a velvety cheese sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and cream creates a dish that’s impossible to resist. Topping it with breadcrumbs before baking gives it a delightful crunch. Add-ins like bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted vegetables can elevate the flavour and make it an even more decadent treat for your guests.
Christmas Roast Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a quintessential side dish for holiday feasts. These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside potatoes are perfect for pairing with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or beef. Toss them in olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a pinch of sea salt, and bake until golden and crispy. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it is always a crowd-pleaser.
Baked Brie With Cranberries And Walnuts
Baked brie is an elegant appetiser that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. A wheel of brie cheese is wrapped in puff pastry and baked until golden and oozy. Top it with a mixture of fresh or dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savoury bite that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers. This warm, melty cheese is the perfect start to any holiday meal.
Panettone
Panettone is an Italian sweet bread traditionally eaten during Christmas. It is a light, fluffy bread made with ingredients like butter, eggs, flour, and sugar, with candied fruits and raisins incorporated into the dough. The bread is baked in a tall, cylindrical shape, creating a beautifully golden crust. Its light texture and citrusy, fruity flavour make it a wonderful addition to any holiday breakfast or as a gift for loved ones. Sliced and served with a cup of coffee or tea, panettone brings a festive touch to the table.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a baked dish that’s perfect for a holiday vegetarian option. Sliced eggplant is breaded and fried until golden, then layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. After baking, the result is a delicious, melty, and flavourful dish with rich tomato sauce and a crispy crust. This dish pairs well with pasta or a fresh green salad and adds a satisfying element to any holiday spread.
