How is Christmas Celebrated in Ireland?
Ireland has a rich set of Christmas traditions, some of which are unique to the country or have distinct Irish variations. These traditions include the ‘candle in the window’, dating back to the time when it was a sign of welcome to Mary and Joseph. It's a symbol of hospitality and a beacon to guide travellers. Another fun - and some may say brave - tradition is Christmas day swims. This particular tradition involves many people starting their festivities with a cold dip in the sea or river, often raising money for charity whilst doing it, highlighting the true meaning of Christmas.
Enjoy an Irish Christmas Dinner
Irish Christmas dinner consists of all the usual trimmings, including turkey, roast potatoes, sprouts, cranberry sauce and more. Historically, goose and duck were often served around the table in Irish homes, however these days it is less common as turkey and ham have become the new norm. In most Irish families, you’ll also find a selection of root vegetables, roasted parsnips and possibly even traditional Irish sides such as soda bread. Of course, you can’t have a full Christmas lunch or dinner without some mouth-watering desserts. Irish households are often filled with an array of festive treats including mince pies, yule logs, trifles and more. If you choose the Christmas Roast Turkey Dinner from our festive favourites in your next HelloFresh food box you can get a small taste of an authentic Irish Christmas at home. All of the ingredients will be delivered to you as always, pre-portioned with step-by-step instructions on how to cook them.
Alternative Christmas Dinners
Not everyone loves a full roast dinner with all the trimmings, but that doesn’t mean you can’t put a twist on festive favourites that you’ll actually enjoy. For example, if you’re not a fan of all of the vegetables and gravy but love turkey and cranberry sauce, why not use it in something different, like our deliciously festive Cheesy Turkey and Bacon Burger. A little bit different from the norm, it has all the festive flavours of the Christmas season, only sandwiched between two soft brioche buns. We also have another delicious alternative Christmas recipe for you to try at home, our Festive Turkey Burger and Chorizo Sprouts. Much like our other festive burger, only this time served with rich, delicious chorizo sprouts, it’s a fun and creative take on the usual Christmas dinner staples to get your teeth stuck into.
Irish Christmas Dinner Ideas the Whole Family Will Love
Sometimes it’s difficult to find Christmas food that the whole family will enjoy. Some people prefer chicken over turkey, while sprouts often remain up for debate around the table. We have included some delicious Irish Christmas dinner ideas that we think the whole family will enjoy.
Christmas Ham: Glazed ham is a popular choice in Ireland, often flavoured with a mixture of brown sugar and mustard.
Cabbage and Bacon - This classic Irish dish features boiled cabbage and bacon, and it's a staple for many Irish families on Christmas.
Boxty: These Irish potato pancakes are a delightful side dish that adds a unique touch to your meal.
Colcannon: Mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale and plenty of butter. It's simple and comforting Irish recipe.
Mince Pies: These small, sweet pies filled with a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and suet are a popular Christmas treat in Ireland.
Want to try out a delicious Christmas turkey recipe in the run up to Christmas? Adding a festive favourite like this Hazelnut Crusted Turkey and Cranberry Sauce to your weekly food box will allow you to sample the flavours ahead of the big day.