Are you counting days? Yes, we’re just a few days away from the grand celebration of Christmas. The soothing breeze of Christmas has made the town go all gala. And we can’t wait enough to celebrate Christmas in India.
The festivals bring out the best of food, and that is something that you cannot miss out on! Here, we have enlisted all the best wonders of Christmas India. India is an experience like no other—a mix of traditions, festivities, and, of course, delectable food!
As much as we all love the cakes and cookies, the heart of Christmas in India lies in the unique winter delicacies that make this festival extra special. Every region brings its signature touch to the Christmas feast, making it a flavorful celebration of the country’s diversity. From coastal flavors to hearty northern meals, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s dive into 5 unique ways to celebrate Christmas in India with traditional flavors, famous winter dishes, and a whole lot of festive cheer.
1. Indulge in Kerala’s Christmas Feasts with Appam and Stew
Down south, the state of Kerala knows how to celebrate Christmas in India with grandeur. Beyond the decorated churches and vibrant processions, the highlight of Christmas in Kerala is the Christmas lunch or dinner feast.
At the heart of the table is the comforting combination of appam (fermented rice pancakes) and a warm, aromatic mutton or chicken stew. The stew, slow-cooked with tender pieces of meat, creamy coconut milk, and a medley of spices like cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon, is a true winter delight.
2. Taste Goa’s Classic Sorpotel and Sannas
Goa, India’s party capital, becomes a paradise during Christmas. The streets are alive with festive lights, choirs, and midnight masses, but the food steals the show. Christmas celebrations in Goa are incomplete without the iconic Chicken sorpotel.
This dish, rooted in Portuguese tradition, is a spicy and tangy curry made with meat, vinegar, and a blend of bold spices. It’s best paired with sannas, soft and fluffy rice cakes that balance the richness of the curry.
Another Goan favorite to try during Christmas in India is vindaloo, a fiery chicken dish made with a tangy vinegar marinade and red chilies. These dishes are staples at every Goan household during Christmas, making the celebration a true gastronomic delight.
3. Relish Kolkata’s Anglo-Indian Flavors with Mutton Curry and Yellow Rice
Kolkata, the City of Joy, celebrates Christmas with pomp and splendor. From St. Paul’s Cathedral hosting midnight Mass to Park Street glittering with lights and Christmas markets, the city knows how to embrace the festive spirit.
But the food, oh the food! Kolkata’s rich Anglo-Indian heritage comes alive in the form of delectable dishes like mutton curry paired with yellow rice. The mutton curry is slow-cooked with aromatic spices, resulting in tender meat and a rich, flavorful gravy. The yellow rice, infused with turmeric, bay leaves, and whole spices, adds a fragrant touch that complements the curry perfectly.
For seafood lovers, Kolkata’s prawn malai curry, with its creamy coconut base, is another must-try winter specialty. Paired with steamed rice, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for the chilly season.
4. Experience Nagaland’s Unique Smoked Meat Delicacy
Head to the northeastern state of Nagaland, and you’ll find a Christmas celebration steeped in tradition and rich, earthy flavors. Nagaland’s cuisine is known for its simplicity and reliance on local ingredients, and smoked chicken with bamboo shoot is a prime example of this culinary ethos.
The dish features slow-cooked with bamboo shoots, ghost chilies (for those who love spice), and fragrant herbs. The result is a smoky, spicy dish that’s packed with flavor and best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For a milder option, try axone meat curry, which uses fermented soybeans to add a tangy twist to the dish. This traditional dish is a testament to the Naga community’s love for sharing hearty meals during Christmas.
5. Savor Punjab’s Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti
Though Punjab isn’t typically associated with Christmas, the state’s winter culinary treasures are perfect for the season. A steaming plate of sarson da saag paired with makki di roti is a favorite among Punjabis during the winter months and makes a delightful addition to Christmas celebrations.
Sarson da saag is a flavorful mustard greens curry, cooked with spinach, spices, and dollops of butter or ghee. It’s served with makki di roti, a cornmeal flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This combination is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing, making it an ideal meal for chilly winter days.
Add a side of butter-loaded dal makhani or tandoori roti, and you’ve got yourself a true Punjabi winter feast that’s perfect for celebrating Christmas in warmth and style.
The True Flavor of Christmas in India
Christmas in India is a reflection of the country’s vibrant culture, where traditions meet regional diversity. From Kerala’s creamy stews to Nagaland’s smoked chicken, from Goa’s tangy sorpotel to Punjab’s buttery sarson da saag, each dish tells a story of community, warmth, and festivity.
So this Christmas, skip the desserts for a while and indulge in these savory, heartwarming dishes that truly embody the spirit of Indian winters. Whether you’re hosting a family feast or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these delicacies are guaranteed to make your celebration memorable.
Here’s wishing you a Merry Christmas full of flavors, warmth, and joy!
