The holidays can be a stressful time; family, friends, parties, presents, etc. I have come to rely on a few recipes over the years to get me through the craziness of the holidays. Here are ten of my favorite, tried and true recipes that work for quick gatherings amongst friends or elaborate dinners with family.
1. TOURTIÈRE
What can’t I say about this magnificent meat pie? It has been a staple in my life since day one and is still a holiday favorite. My secret? My spices; cloves, cinnamon, allspice and a little something extra that I cannot divulge. To me, tourtiere just smells and tastes like the holidays.
2. PORK ROAST
Oh the pig! I Enjoy roasting his big ‘ol hind leg with tons of savory and oh the cracklin’! Enjoy him hot out of the oven and the next day, cold and thinly sliced on toast with a slathering of the now solid pan/fat juices.
3. PUDDING CHOMEUR
Maple syrup dessert overload! If you love maple syrup and you love dessert, this scrumptious French Canadian pudding is for you. Forget about the buche de Noel, make this dessert your go to for the holidays.
4. BAKED BEANS
Especially good cooked with pork belly, maple syrup and salted lard. These beans are worth making over the holidays. They are also awesome the next day, heated up in a skillet and served with eggs and bacon.
5. SEAFOOD CHOWDER
A big bowl of warmth on a cold holiday eve. Santa Claus would certainly be happy getting a bowl of this after delivering all those toys than sugary cookies. This is a Maritime favorite, and has become one of mine since moving here. I like to add smoked oysters to my chowder to make it extra special.
6. SALTED CARAMELS
This is the gift that I give during the holidays. The perfect hostess gift and a perfect way to win over the mother in law. These buttery little treats go fast, so make sure to stash a few for yourself.
7. FRUIT CAKE
Yep, I love fruit cake! Soaked in dark rum and aged for over a month, this boozy cake is best eaten as a midnight snack with a glass of wine. Not a lover? Try this one and I guarantee it will win you over.
8. CHICKEN LIVER PARFAIT
Unctuous, buttery and decadent. What better way to start a holiday gathering than having some of this spreadable goodness? Easy to make, easier to eat. The best holiday hors d’oeuvre.
9. SPICED NUTS
Salty, spicy nut? Why yes, thank you. How about a glass of Nova Scotia sparkling to accompany it? So tasty, these little treats will keep your guests happy and have them begging for more once they have run out.
10. SHUCKED OYSTERS
Briny bivalves are a great way to ring in the New Year or eat on a quiet night at home. A Lavallee holiday favorite, you can’t go wrong with a few dozen shucked Black Point or Eel Lake oysters and mignonette.
The holidays are a great time of year. I especially love the eating and entertaining. These ten holiday favorites have made my life easier, and I am sure they will for you too. Have a few holiday favorites of your own? Please feel free to share them with me as I always love to hear your feedback.