Greek Christmas Food to Make at Home
Each dish, from savory to sweet, served for Christmas tells a story of Greece’s rich cultural heritage. It is a feast for the senses, where every bite is a taste of tradition and togetherness. Greek cuisine is overflowing with delish recipes, so it is no surprise that the holiday table is loaded with some of the best foods you can taste. This list is too short to name all the delicacies that come from this Mediterranean country, so stick with me and see the most common Greek Christmas food!
Christopsomo – Christ’s Bread
This isn’t just any dish but a part of Greece’s thousand-year-old sacred traditions. In literal translation, Christopsomo means Christ’s bread, and it is believed to strengthen the health, well-being, and happiness of the household, making it an inevitable part of the Christmas feast. It is packed with walnuts and raisins, plus the addition of wintery spices makes it highly aromatic, as well.
Greek Braised Pork
In many Greek households, pork is a centerpiece of Christmas dinner; thus, you can’t be wrong about whatever recipe you choose to make. This one is a classic – braised fine-quality pork induced with sweet and savory herbs, spices, and fruits. The special aroma and juiciness come from orange juice, honey, and white wine, yum!
Lahanodolmades – Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
If you’ve never had this culinary gem before, you’re missing out on so much! Cabbage rolls are a Christmas staple, and there is rarely someone who doesn’t love them. The filling always includes rice and herbs, while minced pork or beef is optional but super delish! P.S. Making cabbage rolls is surprisingly simple and fun!
Avgolemono Soup – Creamy Lemon and Chicken Soup
This traditional Greek soup is a usual first course of Christmas dinner, and for a very good reason! It is an incredibly rich, silky soup loaded with lemon, making it an obvious choice for a winter meal. I like the ingredient combo so much – chicken, veggies, and absolute star: orzo!
Lamb Roast
Lamb roast is the second most popular meat of the Greek Christmas feast. When you prepare it properly, it will be the most succulent meat you’ll ever have. Greeks do it best, though, as the spice blend for the rub is flawless. Don’t forget to serve lamb’s best friend – roasted potatoes!
Kakavia – Fish Soup
Kakavia, aka Greek fisherman’s soup, is a coastal staple made with the freshest fish. There is no “right” recipe, as it calls for a blend of various types of fish plus potatoes, onions, and olive oil. Of course, it is a must to finish it with lemon and different herbs for a real coastal winter delicacy.
Pastitsio – Greek Lasagna
This dish is an ultimate comfort food, more popular by the name “Greek lasagna.” Similar to its Italian sister, there are hearty layers of sauce with minced meat (usually pork and beef blend), béchamel sauce, and pasta. The difference lies in the type of pasta, as this recipe asks for bucatini, penne, or ziti. In a real Greek style, feta is also inevitable here!
Melomakarona – Honey Cookies
Greeks go all out on desserts for every holiday, so Christmas is no exception. This is a special holiday recipe: honey cookies infused with cognac, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. But what really makes them stand out is aromatic syrup, which gives these cookies a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Kourabiedes – Snowball Cookies
Maybe you won’t get a white Christmas in the heart of the Mediterranean, but you can always make Greek snowballs! These almond cookies have a truly unique taste – rich but light, as the icing sugar gives almost a cooling effect to every bite. They are just the right amount of crumbly while melting on your palate at the same time.
Baklava
Greeks have a huge respect for their baklava, so even though they prepare it all year round, it is still the main star of Christmas dinner. Thin, crispy, sugary layers of phyllo dough and grounded nuts are out of this world! When it comes to choosing the right nuts, you can go with anything you like the best; my favorite is a blend of walnuts and hazelnuts.
Loukoumades – Greek Doughnuts
I can confirm these are better than any other doughnut in the world! Greek donuts are specific – they are tiny, deep-fried, and best enjoyed steaming hot. They became a Christmas market staple, making them a true messenger of winter! P.S. They are the best in pair with chocolate or tossed in cinnamon!
Dear Greeks and lovers of Greek cuisine, thank you for sharing these fantastic recipes with the whole world! I made an entire list of recipes to make ASAP!