“Time-Honoured Traditions of Popular Christmas Foods” by Pip Pedley, Chef at the Kilchrenan Inn

18 December 2023

"As the festive season unfolds, our kitchen comes alive with the warmth of tasty traditions! As a chef at the Kilchrenan Inn, I am always thinking of new dishes to add to our menu that will make our guests feel cosy and festive! Scotland, and the UK in general, boasts a rich tapestry of culinary customs, with a few iconic dishes taking center stage during the holiday season. In this blog, we'll delve into the cherished traditions behind three popular Christmas foods that have become synonymous with Yuletide celebrations."

Mince Pies: A Bite-sized Tradition

The humble mince pie has been a staple of Christmas celebrations for centuries. Despite its name, mince pies do not actually contain minced meat in the modern sense- but of course you knew that! The filling consists of a delightful concoction of dried fruits, spices, suet, and sometimes a hint of brandy or other spirits. The history of mince pies dates back to medieval times when they were initially filled with meat, symbolising the gifts presented to the baby Jesus by the three wise men.

Over the years, the recipe evolved and the meat was gradually replaced by sweet ingredients. Today, mince pies are bite-sized delights, encased in a golden, buttery pastry. They are often enjoyed with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of brandy butter. Tradition dictates that making and sharing mince pies during the festive season is a way of spreading joy and goodwill.

I like my mince pie with lashings of brandy butter! Heat them up, pop the lids off and add a good spoonful of the boozy butter. Put the lid back on, loosen your belt and enjoy!

Christmas Pudding: Steeped in Symbolism

Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, is another iconic Christmas dessert with a rich history. This dense, moist, and darkly spiced pudding is a culmination of diverse ingredients, including suet, flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, and a variety of dried fruits. The distinctive flavor comes from a heady mix of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The crowning glory is often a generous dousing of brandy, which is set ablaze just before serving, creating a spectacular display of blue flames.

The origins of Christmas pudding trace back to medieval England, where it was initially a savory dish containing meat and spices. However, by the 17th century, the dish had evolved into a sweeter version, and the meat was eventually omitted. Christmas pudding became deeply intertwined with Christmas festivities, and its round shape symbolises unity and completeness.

Participating in the preparation of Christmas pudding is a cherished tradition in many households. Families often gather weeks before Christmas to mix the ingredients, each member taking a turn to stir the pudding and make a wish. As the pudding steams, its rich aroma fills the kitchen, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and togetherness.

Roast Turkey: The Grand Centrepiece

No Christmas feast is complete without the grand centrepiece—the roast turkey. While turkey itself is not native to Britain, it became popular during the 16th century when it was introduced to the country. The tradition of serving turkey at Christmas gained prominence in the 19th century, thanks in part to Queen Victoria, who adopted the custom after her husband, Prince Albert, who was of German descent, introduced it to the royal table.

Roast turkey embodies the spirit of abundance and celebration. The bird is typically seasoned with a mix of herbs and spices, then roasted to golden perfection. It is served alongside an array of festive accompaniments, including stuffing, roast vegetables, cranberry sauce, and rich gravy. The act of carving the turkey at the table has become a ceremonious affair, symbolising the sharing of a bountiful meal with loved ones.

My preferred way of making the perfect stuffing is... to ask Phil! He makes the best stuffing ever. Buy him a pint of Guinness and ask if he'll give you his recipe!

Merry Christmas from all at the Kilchrenan Inn- we hope to see you soon!

Whether it's the bite-sized sweetness of a mince pie, the rich complexity of a Christmas pudding, or the grandeur of a roast turkey, these culinary delights bring families and friends together, creating cherished memories that endure through the ages. As the aroma of spices and roasting turkey fills your homes this Christmas, I hope these traditions not only satiate your appetites but also nourish your spirits, making this a truly special time of year.

Photo credit: Sebastien Gouwy, Chef at the Kilchrenan Inn.