7 Essentials For A Delicious Christmas Dinner In Philippines

The Philippines, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and love for celebrations, especially during Christmas. The holiday season is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and indulge in delicious food. A traditional Christmas dinner in the Philippines is a grand feast that features a variety of dishes, each one more mouth-watering than the last. In this article, we will explore the 7 essentials for a delicious Christmas dinner in the Philippines.

Christmas is a significant holiday in the Philippines, and the preparations for the big day begin weeks in advance. One of the most exciting aspects of Christmas in the Philippines is the food. A traditional Christmas dinner in the Philippines typically features a mix of Filipino and international dishes, all carefully prepared to satisfy the taste buds of family and friends.

To ensure a delicious Christmas dinner, there are several essentials to keep in mind. From the preparation of traditional Filipino dishes to the selection of the perfect ingredients, every detail counts. In this article, we will discuss the 7 essentials for a delicious Christmas dinner in the Philippines.

Essential 1: Traditional Filipino Dishes

A traditional Christmas dinner in the Philippines is not complete without certain Filipino dishes. These dishes have been passed down through generations and are an integral part of the country's culinary heritage. Some of the most popular traditional Filipino dishes served during Christmas include:

• Lechon

Lechon is a whole roasted pig that is slow-cooked over charcoal. The pig is marinated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and vinegar before being roasted to perfection. Lechon is a staple of Filipino celebrations and is often served as the centerpiece of the Christmas dinner.

• Adobo

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish made with marinated meat or seafood cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. The dish is simmered until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Adobo is often served with steamed rice and is a favorite among Filipinos.

• Lumpia

Lumpia is the Filipino version of spring rolls. The dish is made with a mixture of vegetables and sometimes meat, wrapped in a thin dough wrapper and deep-fried until crispy. Lumpia is a popular snack and appetizer during Christmas celebrations.

Essential 2: Fresh Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients used in cooking is crucial to the success of a delicious Christmas dinner. Fresh ingredients ensure that the dishes are flavorful and nutritious. Some of the essential fresh ingredients to include in your Christmas dinner are:

• Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits such as strawberries, grapes, and melons are perfect for a Christmas dinner. They can be served as a refreshing dessert or used as a topping for salads and other dishes.

• Leafy Greens

Leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, and pechay are essential for salads and other dishes. They add a burst of freshness and nutrition to the meal.

• Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic are essential for adding flavor to the dishes. They can be used to marinate meat, season vegetables, and add a boost of flavor to soups and stews.

Essential 3: Traditional Christmas Desserts

No Christmas dinner is complete without traditional Christmas desserts. In the Philippines, some of the most popular Christmas desserts include:

• Leche Flan

Leche flan is a creamy custard pudding topped with a layer of caramel sauce. It is a popular dessert during Christmas celebrations.

• Maja Blanca

Maja blanca is a Filipino version of coconut pudding. It is made with coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch, and is often flavored with vanilla or pandan.

• Barquillos

Barquillos are thin, crisp cookies made from egg whites, sugar, and flour. They are often flavored with vanilla or ube and are a popular snack during Christmas celebrations.

Essential 4: Beverages

A delicious Christmas dinner is not complete without refreshing beverages. Some of the most popular beverages served during Christmas celebrations in the Philippines include:

• Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a favorite among Filipinos during Christmas. It is made with rich, dark chocolate and is often served with a sprinkle of sugar and a dollop of whipped cream.

• Fresh Fruit Shakes

Fresh fruit shakes are a refreshing way to end the meal. They can be made with a variety of fruits such as strawberries, bananas, and mangoes.

• Iced Tea

Iced tea is a popular beverage during Christmas celebrations. It can be made with a variety of flavors such as lemon, peach, and mint.

Essential 5: Table Setting

A beautifully set table is essential for a delicious Christmas dinner. The table setting should reflect the festive spirit of the season. Some of the essential items to include in the table setting are:

• Christmas-themed Tablecloth

A Christmas-themed tablecloth is a must-have for a festive table setting. It can be made of cotton, linen, or polyester and can feature a variety of Christmas designs such as reindeer, snowmen, and Christmas trees.

• Candles and Centerpieces

Candles and centerpieces add a warm and cozy ambiance to the table setting. They can be made of a variety of materials such as glass, metal, and wood.

• Christmas-themed Plates and Utensils

Christmas-themed plates and utensils add a festive touch to the table setting. They can feature a variety of Christmas designs such as reindeer, snowmen, and Christmas trees.

Essential 6: Music and Ambiance

A delicious Christmas dinner is not complete without festive music and ambiance. Some of the essential items to include in the music and ambiance are:

• Christmas Carols

Christmas carols are a must-have for a festive ambiance. They can be played in the background while the family enjoys their meal.

• Christmas Lights

Christmas lights add a warm and cozy ambiance to the dinner setting. They can be hung from the ceiling or placed around the table.

• Fresh Flowers

Fresh flowers add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dinner setting. They can be placed in vases or used as centerpieces.

Essential 7: Family and Friends

A delicious Christmas dinner is not complete without family and friends. The holiday season is a time for loved ones to come together and share in the joy and spirit of the season. Some of the essential items to include in the family and friends are:

• Inviting Loved Ones

Inviting loved ones to join in the celebration is essential for a delicious Christmas dinner. It can be done through formal invitations or casual get-togethers.

• Sharing Stories and Memories

Sharing stories and memories is an essential part of the Christmas celebration. It can be done through storytelling, photo albums, or home videos.

• Playing Games and Activities

Playing games and activities is a great way to bond with family and friends during the Christmas celebration. It can be done through board games, card games, or outdoor activities.

A delicious Christmas dinner in the Philippines is a grand feast that features a variety of traditional Filipino dishes, fresh ingredients, and festive ambiance. By including these 7 essentials in your Christmas celebration, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience for your family and friends.