While traditional Nigerian meals like Jollof rice, Fried Rice, and Pounded Yam are staples and loved by many, there’s always room for a little culinary adventure, especially during the festive season. The idea is to create a Christmas lunch that feels like a holiday feast, even if you’re spending the day at home. So, if you are game, let’s explore five easy-to-prepare, delicious meals that bring a twist to your Christmas lunch using locally sourced ingredients.
Spiced Roast Chicken with Thyme and Lemon
A juicy, aromatic roast chicken can be the centrepiece of your Christmas table. It’s simple yet feels special enough for the occasion.
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken
2 lemons, halved
A bunch of fresh thyme
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 teaspoons of paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Recipe:
Preheat your oven to 180°C.
Rub the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon halves and thyme.
Roast in the oven for 1.5 hours or until the juices run clear.
Let it rest before carving.
Honey-glazed carrots and Green Beans
It is a vibrant, sweet side dish that pairs well with any main course.
Ingredients:
500g carrots, sliced
500g green beans, trimmed
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste
Recipe:
Steam the carrots and green beans until tender.
In a pan, melt butter and honey.
Add the steamed vegetables and toss until glazed.
Season with salt and serve warm.
Coconut Rice with Mixed Vegetables
A tropical twist to the traditional rice dishes.
Ingredients:
2 cups of rice
1 can of coconut milk
2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, sweet corn)
Salt to taste
Recipe:
In a pot, sauté onions until translucent.
Add rice, coconut milk, broth, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked.
Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
OVEN BAKED Spicy Plantain and Sweet Potato
A delicious and easy-to-make dish that adds a sweet and spicy touch to your meal.
Ingredients:
3 ripe plantains, sliced
2 sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Salt to taste
Recipe:
Preheat your oven to 200°C.
Toss plantains and sweet potatoes with olive oil, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Arrange in a baking dish in layers.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
Fruit Salad with a Citrus-Honey Dressing
A refreshing and light end to your festive meal.
Ingredients:
1 pineapple, cubed
2 mangoes, cubed
3 bananas, sliced
2 oranges, segmented
1 tablespoon honey
Juice of 1 lemon
Recipe:
Combine all the fruits in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice.
Pour the dressing over the fruits and toss gently.
These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also bring a delightful change to your Christmas lunch. They are designed to be versatile, allowing you to substitute or add ingredients based on availability and preference. The key is to enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing these meals with loved ones. Remember, a special Christmas lunch doesn’t necessarily mean complex recipes; sometimes, simplicity, combined with a touch of creativity, is all it takes to create a festive and memorable meal. Happy cooking, and Merry Christmas!
