Holidays are for celebration. And if there’s one thing we all have in common, it’s not a celebration without delicious food! Here are seven signature dishes from around the world that people enjoy during special times of the year.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab jamun is a popular Indian dessert that is often served during festive occasions, including Diwali and weddings. These small, round sweets pack a punch with their nutty richness. They’re made from khoya (reduced milk) and are deep-fried until golden brown, then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup flavored with rose water and cardamom. The result is a soft, syrupy treat that melts in your mouth—and a flavor that’s certainly worth celebrating.
Sauerbraten
Sauerbraten is a traditional German pot roast, often considered the country’s national dish. Typically made with beef, the meat is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices for several days before being slow-cooked to tender perfection. The dish is usually served with red cabbage, potato dumplings, or boiled potatoes. Sauerbraten is a comforting meal that reflects the heartiness of German cuisine and is often enjoyed during festive gatherings, especially around Christmas.
Panettone
Panettone is a sweet bread and holiday treat that originated in Milan. It’s often enjoyed around Christmas with a glass of wine or cup of coffee. The bread is bejeweled with candied fruit and raisins with bright notes from citrus zest. The dough is slowly fermented, leading this Italian baked good to have its characteristic lightness and distinct flavors.
Roast Turkey
Thanksgiving is synonymous with roast turkey in the United States. And that’s not even half of it—there’s mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie. Any of these recipes could make it on this list because they’re all so iconic Thanksgiving dishes. But the turkey is usually the traditional centerpiece of this holiday.
Feijoada
Feijoada is a hearty black bean stew that is considered the national dish of Brazil, often served during festive occasions, especially on special holidays like Carnival. This dish is made with a variety of salted pork or beef, slow-cooked with black beans and spices. It’s a celebration of Brazilian culture, so it makes sense that it would be served during such a holiday!
Kugel
Kugel is a traditional Jewish dish that can be served sweet or savory, often making an appearance during Jewish holidays like Passover and Hanukkah. The sweet version, typically made with egg noodles or potatoes, is baked with ingredients like apples, raisins, cinnamon, and sugar, creating a comforting, custard-like dish. Savory kugel may include onions, cheese, and vegetables. Regardless of the variation, kugel is a beloved staple that reflects the warmth and tradition of Jewish culinary heritage.
Tamales
Tamales are a cherished holiday tradition in Mexico, particularly during Christmas and the Día de los Muertos celebrations. Made from masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheeses, or vegetables, tamales are wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. The process of making tamales is often a communal activity and responsible for bringing families together to prepare and enjoy them. That makes them even more special!
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