From rich and savory dishes to decadent desserts, the French Christmas table is a feast for the senses. Ready to discover the magic of French Christmas food? Let’s dive into the culinary delights that make this time of year so special in France.
What a traditional French Christmas dinner looks like
Christmas Eve in France is often celebrated with a grand meal. This feast typically features luxurious ingredients and elegant dishes, setting the stage for a joyous Christmas Day.
Starters
Canapés and verrines, small elegant appetizers, are passed around to whet the appetite.
A “plateau de fruits de mer” (seafood platter) might feature fresh oysters, shrimp, whelks, and other delicacies from the sea.
Smoked salmon is another classic starter, adding a touch of sophistication to the table.
Foie gras, a rich and buttery delicacy made from duck or goose liver, is often served with toasted bread and fig jam.
Main course
For the main course, roasted poultry reigns supreme. Chapon (castrated rooster) or turkey, often stuffed with chestnuts are popular choices. These succulent roasts are typically accompanied by some pommes sautées (sautéed potatoes) and a selection of seasonal vegetables.
Cheese course
No French meal would be complete without a cheese course. A variety of cheeses, from creamy camembert to pungent roquefort, are presented on a platter, allowing guests to indulge in their favorites. This course provides a savory interlude before the sweet treats arrive.
Dessert
And then comes the highlight of the evening for those with a sweet tooth – dessert! The star of the show is often the Bûche de Noël, a decadent log-shaped cake that symbolizes the Yule log traditionally burned during the Christmas season. This chocolate sponge cake, rolled with buttercream and adorned with festive decorations, is a true feast for the eyes and the palate.
Drinks to accompany the feast
To complement the rich flavors of French Christmas food, a variety of beverages are enjoyed throughout the meal. Festivities often commence with an apéritif like Kir Royale, a delightful mix of crème de cassis and Champagne.
Throughout the meal, wine takes center stage, with red wines like Bordeaux or Burgundy pairing perfectly with roasted meats and cheeses. Of course, no French celebration would be complete without Champagne, adding a touch of sparkle and elegance.
After dinner, coffee and tea aid digestion, while digestifs such as Cognac or Armagnac offer a warming finish for those who prefer something stronger.
Some snacks in case you are still hungry
Even after the main feast has concluded, the celebration continues with some treats left on the table for guests to enjoy throughout the evening. Bowls of roasted chestnuts offer a comforting and nostalgic snack, while oranges and mandarins with their juicy sweetness provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.
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