A traditional Christmas meal in France is a festive and elaborate affair, often enjoyed with family and friends. It varies from region to region, but there are some common elements that can be found at many French Christmas tables.
The meal typically starts with a variety of appetizers, known as entrées. These may include:
Foie gras: A rich delicacy made from duck or goose liver, often served with toast or on a brioche.
Oysters: Particularly in coastal regions, fresh oysters are a popular choice during Christmas.
Smoked salmon or other seafood platters: These are served with lemon, capers, and a variety of sauces.
The main course is often a hearty and lavish dish, such as:
Roast meats: A roast dinde (turkey) or chapon (capon, a special type of rooster) is a classic choice, often stuffed and served with a rich gravy. In some regions, poularde (hen) may be served instead.
Bûche de Noël: A traditional Yule log-shaped dessert, made of sponge cake and buttercream, often flavored with chocolate or coffee. This is a symbolic part of the Christmas meal.
Vegetables: Side dishes often include roasted vegetables, pommes de terre (potatoes), and chestnut
Cheese Course:
Before dessert, the French often enjoy a selection of cheeses. The cheese platter may include:
- Brie, Camembert, and Roquefort: These are some of the most well-known French cheeses, alongside others like Chèvre (goat cheese) or Comté.
Dessert:
The dessert is usually quite elaborate and marks the end of the festive meal:
- Bûche de Noël: As mentioned, this Yule log-shaped cake is a must-have, decorated to look like a log, with icing resembling bark, and often adorned with edible decorations such as meringue mushrooms or holly leaves.
Drinks:
A traditional Christmas meal in France is often accompanied by a selection of drinks:
- Wine: Red or white wine, often from a local region, is served with the meal. Champagne or sparkling wine is common for toasts and celebrations.
- Cognac or Armagnac: These are traditional French brandies often served after the meal, along with coffee.
