December 25th 2024.
I have to admit, there's nothing about this that looks appetizing. I know, I know, I'm being quite opinionated. But if I had to sum myself up in one word, it would definitely be "opinionated". Ever since I was able to talk, I've been expressing my thoughts on everything and anything. It's just who I am.
But there's one thing that I say that always seems to stir up controversy and silence the room. And that is... drum roll please... I hate Christmas dinner. Yes, I said it. I never liked it. In fact, I find some of the classic components of a festive feast to be some of my least favorite foods in the world. Turkey, for example. It's just a drier, blander version of chicken. And don't even get me started on the gravy that usually accompanies it. Let's just say, it's not my cup of tea.
And then there's cranberry sauce. I mean, come on. It's basically just jam. And pigs-in-blankets? Don't even get me started on bacon. It's Britain's most overrated ingredient, in my opinion. And let's not forget about stuffing. It's just... unpleasant. I've even gone so far as to slander sprouts, and I stand by my recent claim that roast potatoes are just "chips for cowards".
But here's the thing, I'm not alone in my dislike for turkey. A 2020 YouGov poll showed that only about half of Brits would consider it a must-have for their Christmas dinner. And it seems like the younger generation, specifically Gen Z, are turning their backs on the bird. According to a recent survey by Sainsbury's, 77% of 18-25 year olds said they would forgo turkey this festive season.
Every year, I hear the boos of Christmas traditionalists. But I always knew the kids were alright. People are opting for alternative meats like beef, chicken, goose, and ham. And there's also a growing trend of vegetarian options being chosen. But for me, the whole concept of a Christmas dinner just doesn't appeal to me. It's basically just a fancier version of a Sunday roast, another British staple that I've always disliked. But that's a topic for another day.
Instead, my family and I opt for something different. We go to our local curry house for our Christmas meal. I know, it's shocking. And when I reveal this fact to my friends, I'm met with gasps of disbelief. Some traditionalists can't understand why we wouldn't cook at home, while others reach "peak Mark from Peep Show" when they realize there will be "no f****ing turkey" at our dinner table.
But let me tell you, our Christmas curry is not lacking in festive spirit. There are decorations, crackers with bad jokes and even worse hats, and even curried sprouts for those who want a spicy twist on a classic. And let's not forget about the cleverly named dishes, like "Korma All Ye Faithful" and "We Three Kings Prawn Bhuna". And what's more festive than enjoying a pint of Cobra beer before 3pm? It's a tradition in itself.
Not to mention, going out for dinner means avoiding the stress and mess of cooking and washing up. It's a win-win situation.
As I was preparing to defend my belief that naan bread is just as festive as Die Hard being a Christmas movie, it hit me. I've been just as dismissive of those who stick to a traditional Christmas as they have been of my choice to ditch the turkey. Besides my unpopular opinion on Christmas dinner, I've also been judgmental of those who start their preparations months in advance. I distinctly remember advising classmates whose parents made them watch the Queen's Speech to call Childline. But I've come to realize that everyone's festive rituals are special in their own way.
Whether it's my family's tradition of having croissants and bucks fizz for breakfast, our unconventional dinner, or our drunken singalongs and competitive charades, these are the little quirks that make Christmas unique for us. And I'm sure you have your own traditions, whether it's wearing pajamas to open presents or watching EastEnders together. Ultimately, it's the people we spend the holiday with that make it special, not what we eat.
So this Christmas, whether you're enjoying parsnips or poppadoms, turkey or tikka, I hope you have a fantastic day filled with all the little traditions that make it truly yours. Just don't get me started on gravy. Do you have a story to share? Let us know by emailing jess.email. And don't forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy holidays!
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