Traditional French Christmas Dinner 

Christmas is beloved and celebrated in countries across the globe but that doesn’t mean that it is observed the same way. A traditional Christmas dinner varies, and changes based on what country you visit, the region, or just family styles and traditions. The best part about embracing the differences between other traditions is that you can try the delicacies from each of those places. Traditional French Christmas dinner is not an exception, and it is one you do not want to miss out on.  

The French are experts in elevating cuisine and making it a life-changing experience with every bite that you take. Since cooking is a part of the heartbeat of French culture, every bite seems to be made with love -- a French Christmas feast is no exception. Since a French Christmas is focused more on the food than the presents, there is no doubt that you will leave a French Christmas dinner indulged.  

         France celebrates Christmas on December 24th instead of Christmas Day. The menu is planned out weeks in advance and is ready for family and friends to gather around for a perfectly curated five-course meal.  

The first course, “L’Apéro,” starts with small bites and champagne. This pre-dinner tradition is a special moment for people to snack, talk, and stir up an appetite for dinner.  

The second course is for starters. After moving to the dining room to begin the meal you will have a few different dishes on the table to try. Foie gras is one of the most popular dishes to serve as a starter during Christmas and is eaten with a baguette. Escargot with butteris likewise a prevalent Christmas dish as these snail shells filled with butter are a French delicacy. Oysters are sure to be at the table if you are having Christmas by the coastline of France. Lastly, if you have never had creamy chestnut soup then you are missing out on one heartwarming French Christmas dish. This aromatic and luxurious soup is a Christmas necessity and will warm your heart with Christmas cheer.  

The third course is the main course. A traditional French Christmas always has a large roasted turkey. While there are many ways to roast the turkey, one of the best is a roasted turkey filled with oranges and chestnut stuffing.  

      One popular side dish to go with the Christmas turkey in a Christmas dinner is pommes dauphine. These bite-sized puffed potatoes are delicious comfort food that will leave you wanting more. They are made from mashed potatoes that have been wrapped in a choux pastry and then deep-fried — and anything deep-fried is delicious. Other side dishes that you will find next to the turkey might include smoked salmon, vegetables, and even caviar if you have the extra funds to afford it.  

The fourth course is all about cheese and salad. You cannot have a French meal without cheese and Christmas is no different. This course has elaborate cheeseboards with a variety of nuts and fruit to pair with each type of cheese. After a plate of cheese and light salad you are prepared to move to dessert.  

The fifth, and final course is for decadent French dessert. As if you were not full already, you can always make room for cake, truffles, and chocolates.  

After five courses of some of the most decadent culinary dishes, you can finally say you have experienced a French Christmas feast and you may never look at Christmas dinner the same way again.