By Suprita Mitter
Updated:Dec 04, 2024
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India, with its rich cultural diversity, celebrates Christmas with unique culinary traditions that blend local flavours with global influences. From hearty curries to indulgent desserts, Christmas feasts in India are an exquisite affair. Here are seven dishes commonly prepared in different parts of India during this festive season.
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Goan Christmas tables are laden with Portuguese-influenced dishes like bebinca (a layered dessert) and feijoada (bean stew with meat). Known for its Christian population, Kerala showcases dishes like mutton stew, Christmas puddings, and traditional wines made from local fruits. Pork dishes like smoked pork curry or fermented bamboo shoot pork are often highlights in Nagaland and Meghalaya. Roast chicken, puddings, and mince pies feature prominently in Anglo-Indian Christmas celebrations across cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Duck Moilee
Kerala’s Syrian Christian community celebrates Christmas with Duck Moilee, a creamy curry made with duck meat, coconut milk, and spices like turmeric, curry leaves, and green chillies. Paired with appams or rice, this dish reflects the region’s love for coconut-based curries and rich, festive flavours.
Roast Chicken
A centerpiece at many Indian Christmas tables, roast chicken combines the universal appeal of this dish with Indian spices and flavors. Typically marinated with a blend of yoghurt, garlic, ginger, chili, and garam masala, the chicken is roasted until golden brown and tender. The result is a succulent, flavourful dish with a crisp exterior and juicy interior. Served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fragrant rice, roast chicken has become a popular festive choice in households across India, blending global traditions with local spices.