Christmas is just around the corner. And if you haven’t already planned your Christmas dinner, get things rolling now. While the top three Christmas dishes across include roasted potatoes (76%), mashed potatoes (75%), and turkey (73%), why not shake things up and give your holiday feast a flavorful twist? How about an Asian Christmas dinner?
Sounds delicious, right?
But we totally understand if you are not keen to spend the entire day in the kitchen. Like most gracious but smart-working hosts, you want something that offers a rich combination of color, textures, and taste without much leg work. And infusing the festive spirit with the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine doesn’t have to be labor-intensive. Many popular Asian Christmas dinner ideas are easy on the prep but offer great taste.
Let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for seconds.
Put your kitchen apron on!
A. The Essence of Asian Cooking Pastes
You must have experienced the explosion of flavors in Asian Christmas food. Ever wondered where that comes from? And the secret to those mouthwatering creations is nothing but the enchanting world of Asian cooking pastes. These unassuming jars are the alchemists of your favorite Christmas chicken dishes, curries, seafood, and more. Just one jar weaves together spices, herbs, and aromatics that can elevate your culinary experience.
That said, not all Asian cooking pastes are made equal. Each paste is a unique masterpiece and contributes distinctive flavor to your Asian Christmas recipes. From the fiery kick of chili paste to the umami goodness of miso, these pastes are the unsung heroes of Asian cooking. In other words, you can play with the flavors as you want, cooking a memorable Christmas dinner for your family and guests.
Still not sure how Asian cooking pastes can transform your family dinner this Christmas? Check out the following Asian Christmas recipes using cooking pastes.
Appetizers with an Asian Paste Kick |
Main Dishes: A Fusion of Traditions |
Lemongrass Turmeric Fruit Crepes |
B. Tips for a Festive Asian-Inspired Christmas Dinner
Whatever your Asian Christmas dinner idea may be, it is incomplete without a suitable ambiance. Asian-themed decorations, table settings, and lights can bring your dinner plan together, creating an immersive experience for your family and guests.
However, your Asian Christmas dinner decorations should go beyond the ordinary. So, try to think beyond the traditional red and green color scheme. You can opt for a palette with rich reds, deep greens, and hints of gold. That will create a visually stunning fusion of Christmas cheer and Asian flair.
Set the stage for your Asian Christmas dinner with bamboo placemats. They will add a touch of sophistication to your table setting. You can also consider using elegant chopstick holders as a practical and stylish addition. For the centerpiece, you can blend the traditional with the exotic by combining poinsettias with delicate orchids. There is no better way to strike a balance between Christmas tradition and Asian beauty.
You can illuminate your dining space with the soft glow of lanterns or string lights. It’s an excellent way to evoke the charm of an Asian night market. Hang delicate paper lanterns above the table to add a whimsical touch to the overall ambiance.
Take your table settings to the next level with personalized name cards and handwritten calligraphy. It’s a thoughtful touch to your overall decorations. But most importantly, it elevates your Asian Christmas dinner experience.
Remember, the small details often make a big impact. With these decorations, your Asian Christmas dinner will be a feast to remember.
Now, let’s dive into the menu.
Start with a refreshing lemongrass and ginger-infused cocktail to set the tone. Move on to an appetizer of crispy spring rolls filled with succulent shrimp and fresh vegetables. You can serve these with a zesty sweet-chili dipping sauce.
For the main course, why not swap the traditional turkey for a fragrant Thai green curry roast chicken? The aroma alone will have your guests drooling with anticipation. Pair it with coconut milk-infused jasmine rice and a side of wok-tossed vegetables for a well-rounded feast.
And if that sounds too much work, try one of our other Asian Christmas recipes. You won’t regret going with an Asian-themed dinner for your family and friends.
Conclusion: A New Tradition in the Making
Chances are you have already planned your Christmas dinner by now. But if you haven’t or want to try something new, why not plan an Asian Christmas dinner? As you gather around the table, filled with the aromatic delights of your Asian-inspired Christmas feast, you’ll realize you’ve embarked on a new tradition. It’s not just about breaking away from the norm. It’s about creating memories that would leave your guests licking their fingers. So, here’s to embracing new culinary traditions and stepping out of your comfort zone.
So, let the fragrance of ginger and the kick of chili fire up your Christmas dinner this year. Buy one of our Asia pastes online now, or use our store locator to find a retailer near you today!