Ideas for Christmas Dinner This Year

Certainly, this year has been a year of unknowns. As a result, many people have been keeping a distance. So, what does that mean for the holidays? Some people will be able to celebrate within their “bubble.” Meanwhile, others will have to keep things small. However, that doesn’t mean that Christmas isn’t happening. It just means we need to be a little creative this year. For this reason, we have decided to help you out. In this month’s blog, we share all our favourite ideas for Christmas dinner. Plus, a few more we found. It’s time to make the best of the season!

The “Socially Distanced” Christmas

Firstly, we have to address this. Christmas this year will be different. There are no “ifs, ands, or buts” about it. For everyone’s safety, we must follow the rules. That applies to us too. We are taking all precautions to keep people safe. Most importantly, this means we have to rethink our ideas for Christmas dinner.

Typically, do you gather with friends and family to celebrate? Us too! Yet, we aren’t giving up on this year. There are many ways to celebrate while keeping safe. You can thank technology for that. With the use of phones and computers, we can stay connected. It’s easier than ever.

So, it’s time to start planning. Try one of these fantastic ideas for Christmas dinner, and you’ll be sure to have a holly jolly Christmas.

To begin, it’s not all about Facetime. There are tons of great apps out there. Not sure where to start? Try one of these options:

• Skype
• Zoom
• Facebook Messenger
• WhatsApp
• Houseparty

Of course, we agree it’s not the same. However, it’s a chance to spend some time with family and friends. As we said, it’s all about creativity this year.

Recipes Ideas for Christmas Dinner

Just because your dinner will be smaller doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice tradition. Christmas is Christmas. Which means we still have to come up with recipe ideas for Christmas dinner.

For larger families, cooking a whole turkey still could work. However, if it’s just the two of you, we’ve still got your back. At Hilltop Acres, we have lots of options for you to choose from. Plus, we have already started taking orders for our Christmas turkeys. Don’t get lost in the hustle and bustle of this year and forget to order yours!

Non-Traditional Ideas for Christmas Dinner

If you’re cooking for just a few people this year, cooking a whole turkey might be too much. So, what else can you do?

If you haven’t heard of a turkey roll, then you’re in luck. A turkey roll is kind of like a turkey without the bones. However, it is not to be confused with a turkey breast. This product still has a mix of white and dark meat. Not to mention, it can be stuffed perfectly as well. This idea is great for novice cooks or smaller gatherings. You can find turkey rolls in the Hilltop Acres Store and custom order it just the way you want it!

Unlike a whole turkey, a boned turkey will cook much faster. If you aren’t sure, follow this Turkey Cooking Calculator.

Not feeling like turkey this year? Why not keep the festive flavors but try out some ideas for Christmas dinner using chicken. This Balsamic Cranberry Roasted Chicken has all the flavors of Christmas. But with a bit of flare.

Classic Turkey Dinner

Do you have a larger family? Or do you love leftovers? Cooking a classic Christmas dinner is still a great idea. If you love to cook, it’s a way to keep your traditions alive. Yet, there are so many ways to go about cooking a turkey. If you aren’t sure where to start, you can find more information in our blog How to Cook a Turkey.

Start by choosing a turkey based on how many people you need to feed. We can help you find the perfect size. Then, choose how you’d like to cook your bird. For the classic roast turkey, follow a few easy steps:

Season, season! Don’t limit yourself to just the outside of your turkey. The inside is just as important. Another tip is to make sure the flavours get under the skin as well. Please take it to the next level by creating a compound butter too. As your turkey cooks, the butter will make that crispy brown skin that everyone loves.

Fill with aromatics. Now that you have seasoned EVERYWHERE. It’s also a good idea to take your favourite flavors and make a bundle to go inside. To get you started onions, thyme, sage, and garlic are the perfect addition to turkey.

Don’t forget to baste! A simple step that is often missed. Yet, it really does make a difference. Not only does it keep the meat moist, but it also enhances the flavor. Wine or beer is also used. Choose something you like to drink, but don’t break the bank.

Add some sauce. Gravy is classic. It is a staple. But, if you’re sick of gravy – try out something new. Whip up a cranberry compote to serve with your turkey instead for a sweet and savoury change.

Christmas Activities

It’s time to put on your Christmas spirit and find the joy in all your regular Christmas activities. Even if they have to be virtual this year, you and your family can enjoy all the things you love about this time of year despite the distance. Some people may stick to Christmas dinner. However, if you are looking for a little more fun, try out one of these cool ideas for celebrating Christmas this year:

Long Distance Secret Santa. This one is easy. Just mail your gifts out, or drop them off if you are close enough. Then, on Christmas day, everyone can open together.

Virtual Dinner and Drinks. As simple as it sounds – eat and drink with the ones you love most while on a live video call!

Online Wine Tasting. A fun way to celebrate with family or friends. This is a new trend that gives people experience in their own homes.

Christmas Cookie Decorating. If you live close enough, drop off the supplies. Otherwise, have everyone prepare ahead of time and decorate virtually.

This year may look a little different, but we know you can make it one for the books and create lasting memories. We know we will! We wish you all a very Merry Christmas – stay healthy and well and we hope to see you soon at our farm store!