Christmas is a special time of year celebrated in many unique ways around the world. While people in the UK might gather around a roast turkey with all the trimmings, those in the Eastern Mediterranean indulge in their own festive dishes and customs. Christmas in the Eastern Mediterranean is marked by vibrant food, warm gatherings, and rich traditions that reflect both cultural and religious diversity.

Families in the Eastern Mediterranean prepare an array of special dishes that show off the flavours and ingredients of the region. From sweet treats to savoury mains, these foods play a big role in the celebrations. The smells of spiced cookies and sizzling meats fill the air, bringing people together and creating a festive atmosphere.

Even though Christmas is celebrated differently in the UK and the Eastern Mediterranean, the love for good food and shared traditions bridges many miles. By exploring these unique customs and dishes, we gain a better understanding of how diverse and rich Christmas can be across different cultures.

Comparing Christmas Traditions in the UK and Eastern Mediterranean

Christmas in the UK tends to revolve around traditions like decorating Christmas trees, carolling, and exchanging gifts. Families gather for a big meal on Christmas Day, which usually features a roast turkey with stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and gravy. Christmas pudding and mince pies are popular desserts that often cap off the meal.

In the Eastern Mediterranean, Christmas celebrations vary widely but share a common thread of family gatherings and festive feasts. Instead of roast turkey, the centrepiece might be a whole lamb or goat, spiced and slow-cooked. In Greece, for example, Christmas bread known as "Christopsomo" is baked with nuts and spices and given a cross pattern on top. Lebanese families might prepare "Kibbeh," a dish made from bulgur, minced onions, and finely ground lean beef, lamb, or goat. These dishes reflect the rich culinary traditions of the region, offering a delicious contrast to the UK's Christmas fare.

Both regions cherish the act of coming together to share food and celebrate, but the flavours and customs differ, making each Christmas a unique experience. These differences highlight the beauty of cultural diversity and the many ways that people celebrate this festive season.

Eastern Mediterranean Christmas Foods and Unique Dishes

The foods served during Christmas in the Eastern Mediterranean are as varied and colourful as the region itself. These dishes often use ingredients like olives, nuts, honey, and a variety of herbs and spices, which bring out rich and layered flavours that make the holiday meals special.

1. Baklava: A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. Baklava is often served as a festive treat in countries like Turkey and Greece.

2. Dolma: Grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and herbs. This dish is a favourite in many Mediterranean countries and is often included in Christmas feasts for its flavours that balance the earthiness of the leaves with the fresh taste of the filling.

3. Kebabs: Skewers of meat, usually lamb or chicken, marinated with herbs and spices before being grilled. These kebabs are popular in places like Lebanon and are often served alongside vegetables and bread.

4. Maamoul: These are shortbread cookies stuffed with dates, pistachios, or walnuts. Common in Lebanon and Syria, these cookies are often made in large batches before Christmas and shared with friends and family.

5. Fatteh: A layered dish made from pieces of crispy pita bread, chickpeas, yoghurt, and spices. It's a comforting and filling dish that's often enjoyed during festive gatherings in countries like Egypt and Lebanon.

These unique dishes showcase the fantastic range of flavours and ingredients that make Eastern Mediterranean Christmas meals unforgettable. The attention to detail and the use of traditional cooking methods ensure that every bite is full of history and taste.

Festive Ingredients and How They're Used in Traditional Recipes

Christmas recipes from the Eastern Mediterranean feature ingredients that give dishes their unique flavours. These ingredients are fresh, local, and full of flavour, which is why they are so special for holiday meals.

1. Olives and Olive Oil: Olives and their oil are used in many dishes, providing a rich and slightly bitter taste. Olive oil is often used in baking and cooking, adding depth to everything from pastries to roasted meats.

2. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are common in Eastern Mediterranean cooking. They are frequently used in sweets like baklava and maamoul but also add crunch to savoury dishes like stuffed peppers and stews.

3. Honey: This natural sweetener is a staple in many festive treats. It is used to create syrups for desserts and adds sweetness to dishes like honey-glazed meats and festive breads.

4. Spices: Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhance the flavours of Christmas dishes. They are especially common in baked goods and savoury meals, giving them a warm and aromatic quality.

By understanding these key ingredients, you can appreciate how traditional recipes come to life during the festive season. They are part of what makes Christmas meals in the Eastern Mediterranean so memorable and delicious.

Cultural and Religious Diversity in Christmas Celebrations

Christmas in the Eastern Mediterranean is a time of joy and togetherness, celebrated with both cultural and religious customs. For some, it is a deeply religious festival, while for others, it is a cultural event filled with family traditions and communal gatherings.

In countries like Greece and Cyprus, Christmas is a significant religious holiday. People attend midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, followed by a festive meal with family and friends. Special songs called "kalanta" are sung, and children often go from house to house singing for small treats or coins.

In Lebanon and Syria, Christmas is both a religious and cultural celebration. Many people decorate their homes with lights and nativity scenes. A special meal is prepared, often featuring roasted meats, stuffed vegetables, and a variety of sweets. The celebrations can extend beyond one day, with continuous gatherings and shared meals.

Turkey, with its diverse cultural background, has smaller Christian communities that celebrate Christmas. These celebrations are often intermixed with local customs, creating a unique blend of traditions. While Christmas may not be a national holiday, it is still celebrated with joy and communal feasts within these communities.

These diverse celebrations highlight the rich cultural tapestry of the Eastern Mediterranean. Regardless of religious beliefs, food remains at the heart of the festivities, bringing people together in celebration.

Conclusion

Christmas in the Eastern Mediterranean offers a beautiful mix of culinary delights and rich traditions that highlight the region's diverse cultural and religious landscape. The festive season is marked by sharing meals and creating memories with loved ones. From the intricate flavours of baklava to the hearty taste of kebabs, each dish tells a story and brings people together.

The ingredients and cooking techniques used in these festive dishes showcase the importance of fresh, local produce and traditional methods. This creates meals that are not only delicious but also deeply connected to the cultural heritage of the Eastern Mediterranean. Families gather around tables laden with these special dishes, celebrating both the season and their shared history.

By exploring the unique Christmas traditions and foods of the Eastern Mediterranean, you gain a deeper appreciation for the ways people celebrate across the world. This festive season, why not bring a taste of the Eastern Mediterranean to your own celebrations?

Experience the rich and diverse flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean at CERU. Join us to savour these traditional Mediterranean food in London and make your Christmas celebrations truly memorable. Treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the spirit of the season.