A Festive Curry Feast: A Bold Alternative for Your Christmas Celebration

Sometimes something wonderful comes out of adversity. My wife and another couple had arranged to have a joint Christmas feast.

 Unfortunately when it came to prepare the turkey (bought from an 'exclusive' local butcher) we realised the turkey was not fit for consumption.

 So, what to do? Prepare a very tasty curry in a hurry! My wife is justifiably renowned for her curries. (We got our money refunded after Christmas.) 

So, why not look at a curry for your Christmas feasting this year?   

Please read on!

Christmas is often associated with the traditional roast dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. But what if this year, instead of opting for the same old fare, you introduced a little spice into your festive celebrations? 

Picture this: the warm, aromatic blend of herbs and spices, a colourful spread of curries, and the unmistakable comfort of naan bread and rice. A curry feast can be a wonderful and bold alternative Christmas meal, bringing together rich flavours, vibrant colours, and a sense of adventure to the dinner table.

Why Choose a Curry Feast?

A Break from Tradition

While the classic Christmas meal is beloved by many, opting for a curry feast can add an element of surprise and excitement. It’s a break from the norm that allows for creativity and experimentation, giving guests the chance to try something new.

Curry Brings People Together

Curries, with their variety of flavours, are perfect for communal dining. A curry feast encourages sharing, whether it’s dipping naan into a rich, creamy sauce or passing around bowls of fragrant rice. It turns the Christmas meal into a social experience, bringing a real sense of togetherness.

Vibrant, Warming Flavours

The spices in a curry spread – from cumin and coriander to ginger and turmeric – offer a warming, comforting quality, perfect for a winter feast. These bold flavours not only excite the palate but also provide a satisfying contrast to the cold weather outside.

Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly

One of the best things about curries is how versatile they are. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians, vegans, or meat-eaters, there’s a curry for everyone. From a hearty vegetable biryani to a rich chickpea masala or a spicy lamb curry, the possibilities are endless.

Creating Your Festive Curry Feast

1. Begin with a Selection of Starters

Begin your feast with a selection of small bites to tantalise the taste buds. Mini samosas filled with spiced vegetables or chicken, crispy onion bhajis, and chutney-laden poppadoms make for a delicious and fun appetiser. Pair them with a variety of chutneys – mint, mango, and tamarind – for added freshness and zing.

2. The Main Event: Curries Galore

For the main course, serve an array of curries to suit all tastes. Here are some festive favourites to consider:

Butter Chicken: A classic dish loved by all, this creamy curry is rich with butter, tomatoes, and a subtle blend of spices. Perfect for those who prefer milder heat.

Rogan Josh: This aromatic lamb curry from Kashmir is ideal for meat lovers. Slow-cooked lamb in a sauce of yoghurt, garlic, ginger, and ground spices, with a hit of chilli, will warm everyone up.

Paneer Tikka Masala: A fantastic vegetarian option, with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, flavoured with garam masala and coriander.

Saag Aloo: For the vegans or veggie lovers, this spinach and potato curry is a light yet flavourful addition to your spread. The earthy potatoes and vibrant spinach bring colour and heartiness to the table.

3. Don’t Forget the Sides

A curry feast isn’t complete without a variety of sides. Fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, and chapatis are must-haves for scooping up those delicious sauces. Add some cooling raita (yoghurt with cucumber and mint) and tangy pickles to balance out the richness of the curries.

4. A Sweet Ending

No feast is complete without dessert. To keep with the Indian-inspired theme, serve gulab jamun, small doughnut-like balls soaked in rose-flavoured syrup, or mango kulfi, a creamy, frozen dessert that’s sweet and refreshing after a spicy meal.

How to Set the Festive Scene

The atmosphere is key to turning your curry feast into a true festive celebration. Brighten up your dining table with colourful tableware, vibrant fabrics, and tealight candles to create a warm, inviting space. You can even add some festive touches, such as crackers or a centrepiece of fairy lights and baubles to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

Play some soft Indian music in the background to set the mood, and encourage guests to dress comfortably, perhaps even in festive colours. The beauty of a curry feast is its relaxed, fun nature, allowing you to focus on enjoying the food and the company rather than worrying about rigid formalities.

A Festive Feast to Remember

A Christmas curry feast is not only a delightful departure from the usual, but it’s also a true celebration of flavour, culture, and togetherness. With its ability to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs, it’s a flexible and joyous way to celebrate the festive season. So, if you're looking for something bold, fun, and full of heart this Christmas, why not turn up the heat and host a curry feast?

Who knows – it might just become your new favourite tradition!