How to Make Sure Your Christmas Turkey Isn’t Rotten This Year

Learn how to choose, store and defrost your Christmas turkey safely, avoid spoiled birds, and spot warning signs, including a real-life cautionary tale about a butcher shut down for selling rotten meat.

A practical guide to choosing, storing and defrosting your festive bird safely

When you picture Christmas Day, you probably imagine the warm aroma of a beautifully roasted turkey drifting through the house. 

What you don’t imagine is discovering, too late, that your bird isn’t fresh or safe to eat. Sadly, it happens more often than people realise, and the consequences go far beyond a ruined dinner.

This guide will help you check the quality of your Christmas turkey, store it safely, and defrost it properly. It also includes a personal cautionary tale that shows why vigilance matters when buying from any supplier, including local butchers.

A Real-Life Warning: When a Butcher Lets You Down

A few years ago, my wife and I ordered a fresh turkey from a local butchers. We wanted to support a small business and enjoy a premium bird. But when we arrived to collect it, we were hit by a powerful, unmistakable stench of rotting meat. The smell filled the shop and that was all the warning we needed.

We turned straight around and went to a supermarket to buy our turkey instead.

After Christmas, the situation took a worrying turn. In the New Year, the butchers was closed down by environmental health following multiple complaints of food poisoning. It reinforced an important lesson: even trusted-looking shops can fall short on basic food safety, and you should always trust your senses.

How to Check That Your Turkey Is Fresh

Whether buying from a supermarket or a local butcher, there are several key signs that your bird is safe and high quality.

1. Look for clear, reliable labelling

Use-by date: Never buy a bird with a damaged label or unclear date.

Source information: Reputable suppliers include details of origin and assurance schemes (such as Red Tractor).

2. Check the temperature

Fresh poultry should be properly chilled. The surface should feel cold to the touch, never warm or clammy.

3. Trust your nose

A fresh turkey smells faintly meaty, never sour or “off”. Any strong, unpleasant smell is a major red flag. If it smells bad in the packaging or the shop, walk away.

4. Inspect the colour and texture

Skin should be pale cream to light pink.

No greying, greenish patches or sliminess.

Flesh should feel springy, not sticky.

5. Buy from reputable sellers

What happened to my wife and I is a perfect demonstration of why you should never feel pressured to accept a bird from a supplier that seems “not quite right”.

Check hygiene ratings.

Read recent reviews.

Avoid shops with visible cleanliness issues or strange smells.

A low price or friendly service is not worth the risk of food poisoning.

How to Store Fresh Turkey Safely

Once your bird is home, proper storage is essential.

Keep it cold

Refrigerate immediately at 0–4°C.

Store the bird on the bottom shelf to prevent juices dripping onto other foods.

Leave it in its original packaging

Only open it when you’re ready to cook. This helps preserve freshness and prevents cross-contamination.

Follow the use-by date strictly

Fresh birds often have a short life, especially if collected close to Christmas Day. If you are cutting it fine, consider cooking it early and reheating portions safely on the day.

How to Safely Defrost a Frozen Turkey

A frozen turkey is a brilliant option for many families, economical and easy to store, but only if thawed safely.

Never defrost at room temperature

This is one of the most common causes of food poisoning at Christmas. The outside warms up too quickly while the inside stays frozen, creating the perfect environment for bacteria.

Defrost in the fridge, instead

Allow 24 hours per 2–2.5 kg of turkey. Large birds may need up to 3 days.

Place the turkey in a large tray to catch any juices.

Check it’s fully thawed

Insert a clean skewer into the thickest part of the thigh.

If ice crystals remain or the flesh feels solid, it’s not ready.

Cook immediately once thawed

Never refreeze raw poultry that has been defrosted.

Don’t Forget: Cook It Safely Too

Once in the oven, your turkey should reach an internal temperature of 75°C in the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Clear juices, no pinkness, and properly cleaned preparation areas are all vital for a safe Christmas meal.

Trust Your Instincts

From dodgy butchers to poorly stored birds, food safety issues can appear in the most unexpected places. The best protection is a combination of common sense, proper storage, and refusing to accept anything that doesn’t look, smell or feel right.

Christmas should be memorable for all the right reasons, and a well-chosen, safely prepared turkey is one of the simplest ways to ensure that.

Crafting the Perfect All-British and Irish Cheese Charcuterie Board for Christmas

When the festive season arrives, few centrepieces feel as inviting as a beautifully arranged cheese and charcuterie board. 

This year, why not celebrate Christmas with a twist by building a board entirely sourced from the British Isles? 

From rich English cheddars to creamy Irish blues and artisan charcuterie cured in small UK smokehouses, a locally focused platter feels both luxurious and meaningful.

Whether you’re hosting a quiet evening in or laying out a Boxing Day feast, an all-British and Irish board brings the flavours of home straight to the table.

Why Choose British and Irish Cheese for Christmas?

The UK and Ireland have undergone a quiet cheese revolution over the last two decades. Today, more than 700 varieties are produced regionally, many of them award-winners. Choosing local brings some lovely benefits:

Fresher, higher-quality produce with shorter supply chains

Support for small farms and dairies, especially those using traditional methods

Distinct regional character, from Somerset to County Cork

A sustainable choice, thanks to reduced transport miles

Plus, British and Irish cheesemakers know how to make a festive statement. Christmas is prime season for bold flavours, mature cheddars, indulgent soft cheeses and decadent blues.

Essential Cheeses for a British & Irish Christmas Board

Mixing textures and strengths is the secret to a perfect platter. Aim for 4–6 varieties.

1. Mature Cheddar (England)

A robust, crumbly cheddar is a must.

Try: Montgomery’s, Keen’s or Black Bomber.

2. Stilton (England)

Classic Christmas cheese: tangy, creamy and rich.

Try: Colston Bassett for a traditional festive blue.

3. Soft Mould-Ripened Cheese (England or Ireland)

Think of these as your UK-Irish equivalent of Brie or Camembert.

Try: Tunworth (Hampshire), Baron Bigod (Suffolk), or Gubbeen (Ireland).

4. Goat’s Cheese (Wales or England)

Fresh, tangy and a lovely palate cleanser.

Try: Kidderton Ash, Rachel Goat’s Cheese, or Pantysgawn.

5. Irish Blue or Washed Rind (Ireland)

Bring some depth with an Irish blue or a bold washed rind variety.

Try: Cashel Blue, Crozier Blue or Milleens.

6. Smoked or Flavoured Cheese (Scotland)

For a little drama.

Try: Smoked Applewood or Isle of Mull Cheddar.

British & Irish Charcuterie That Elevates Your Board

Our islands produce exceptional cured meats that pair beautifully with local cheese.

Air-dried beef: Bresaola-style cuts from Scottish smokehouses

British salami: Try varieties infused with fennel, chilli or cider

Smoked ham: Wiltshire cured ham adds a classic festive note

Irish charcuterie: Look for charcuterie from small producers in Cork and Galway

If you want something truly seasonal, many artisan producers release Christmas-spiced salamis, whisky-smoked meats, or limited-edition hams at this time of year.

Seasonal Accompaniments for a Festive Finish

Make your board look abundant and Christmassy with well-chosen additions.

Crackers & Bread

Scottish oatcakes

Seeded sourdough crackers

Irish wheaten bread

Chutneys & Relishes

Caramelised onion chutney

Fig and port chutney

Spiced apple and cranberry relish

Fruit & Nuts

Red grapes

Figs, fresh or dried

Pear slices

Walnuts and roasted hazelnuts

Extras for Christmas Flair

Honeycomb pieces

Rosemary sprigs

Edible gold-dust grapes

Festive-shaped cheese cutters (stars always win!)

How to Arrange Your Board Beautifully

Start with your largest cheeses and place them evenly across the board.

Add charcuterie in gentle folds for volume.

Fill gaps with fruit, nuts, and small bowls of chutney.

Use contrasting colours (deep blue veined cheese next to pale crackers).

Aim for a look that’s full but not overcrowded.

Rustic wooden boards feel the most festive, but slate or marble works beautifully for a crisp, modern style.

Drinks Pairing: Keep It British & Irish

Sparkling wine: English sparkling wine from Kent or Sussex

Red wine: Welsh pinot noir or a smooth Irish red

Cider: A dry Herefordshire or Somerset cider, or a Irish farmhouse cider

Beer: Winter ales or a dark stout

Non-alcoholic: Spiced apple punch or ruby pear juice

Final Thoughts

An all-British and Irish cheese and charcuterie board isn’t just delicious—it’s a celebration of the incredible craftsmanship and heritage of our local producers. 

Whether it sits proudly on your Christmas Eve nibble table or appears as the centrepiece of your Boxing Day buffet, it brings warmth, generosity and festive cheer to every gathering.

You should be able to purchase the above items from delicatessens, farm shops or high status food shops. 

You can also use the That's Christmas 365 online shop, too: https://amzn.to/3KB3IAs

Why You Should Source Your Turkey and Christmas Meats from a Real Butcher

When it comes to Christmas dinner, the centrepiece matters. 

Whether it's a golden turkey, a succulent joint of beef, or a beautifully glazed ham, the quality of your festive meat can make or break the meal. 

With so many supermarkets offering seasonal deals, it can be tempting to pop everything into your trolley and call it done, but there’s a very good reason more and more families are choosing to go back to their local butcher for their Christmas roast. 

One joint of rotten meat from a supermarket can send families running back to their real, local butcher.

Here’s how and why buying from a real butcher can elevate your festive feast.

1. Unmatched Freshness and Quality

Independent butchers typically work closely with trusted farms, often sourcing meat from local producers with strong animal-welfare standards. That means:

Fresher cuts

Better flavour and texture

Full traceability from farm to counter

A butcher’s turkey isn’t something that’s sat shrink-wrapped in a freezer warehouse for weeks. It’s prepared with care, often delivered directly from regional farms with minimal handling.

2. Expert Knowledge You Can Rely On

Your butcher isn’t just selling meat — they’re sharing decades of craft and experience. They can help you choose the right size turkey for your gathering, advise on cooking times, and even tell you which breeds offer the best flavour.

Got a small oven? They’ll suggest alternatives.

Unsure how to carve a crown? They’ll talk you through it.

Need gluten-free stuffing? They’ll prepare it for you.

This personal guidance simply doesn’t exist at the supermarket checkout.

3. Bespoke Cuts and Special Requests

Want a turkey crown instead of a whole bird? Prefer your beef rolled, tied, or dry-aged? Need your joint boned and stuffed to make carving a breeze?

A butcher can tailor your order exactly how you want it.

This level of custom preparation saves time, reduces waste, and ensures your Christmas table looks exactly as you envisioned.

4. Supporting Local Businesses

Shopping at your local butcher keeps money circulating in your community. You’re helping sustain skilled jobs, supporting local farms, and ensuring these essential high-street businesses continue to thrive.

This kind of Christmas shopping feels good — and does good.

5. Ethical, Sustainable Choices

Many butchers take pride in offering:

Free-range turkeys

Grass-fed beef

High-welfare pork

Locally reared options

If sustainability is on your mind during the festive season, a butcher is the best place to find responsibly sourced Christmas meat that meets your values without compromising on taste.

6. Less Plastic, Less Waste

Supermarket meat often comes wrapped in layers of plastic and bulky packaging. Butchers use far less packaging, and many now offer paper wrapping or reusable containers. You buy only what you need, not whatever size the supermarket offers.

7. A More Enjoyable Christmas Experience

For many families, the Christmas Eve dash to the butcher is part of the season’s charm. You’ll often find:

Friendly service

Festive music

Complimentary mince pies

A warm, community atmosphere

It’s a world away from navigating crowded supermarket aisles at the last minute.

Your Christmas dinner deserves the very best ingredients, and when it comes to meat, nothing beats the quality, expertise, and personal service of a real butcher. From ethical sourcing to impeccable flavour, choosing a butcher is one of the simplest ways to elevate your festive feast while supporting local businesses.

This year, treat your Christmas table to something special.

Get MEAT Smart this Christmas with Amazing Deals from MEATER

MEATER, the world’s top selling wireless meat thermometer brand, is pleased to announce that it will be slicing up to 30% off its prices this Christmas. 

Now's the absolutely ideal time join the revolution of cooking meat to temperature, not time! 

Included in the deal is the new, exclusive to Amazon, MEATER SE, which you can grab in time for Christmas for just £55.

MEATER smart kitchen gadgets boast unbeaten quality and effortless perfection. BBQ and foodie enthusiasts across the globe rave about them, along with over 40,000 customers on Amazon. 

Whether you’re a gadget loving BBQ enthusiast, budding chef, dinner party host, or busy parent that loves to treat your family and friends to a perfectly cooked roast dinner, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to add a MEATER to your collection of culinary gadgets - and with the prices carved, they also make juicy stocking fillers. 

This will also make a great Christmas gift for the meat cooks in your life.

MEATER helps you to achieve succulent, tasty meat or fish each and every time, and ensure that it is perfectly safe to eat without you having to poke, prod or cut into it to check. Super smart, the no wires, no fuss MEATER wireless meat thermometers are desirable gadgets that have their own free app featuring a smart guided cook system. It’s not complicated, so you don’t need to be tech savvy to use it, but it's guaranteed to be feature-rich, offering plenty of possibilities to experiment with. Simply connect to a mobile smart device and let the delicious creative juices flow.

MEATER’s patented smart technology provides estimated cooking times, continuously monitors both ambient and internal temperature whilst meat is cooking and sends alerts to mobile devices when perfection is achieved. It takes away all the stress of under or over cooked meat and lets you cook any new cut or fish with absolute confidence. This simple to use, must-have culinary gadget is cooking 2.0! Perfect (Turkey) made easy.

Prime Cuts:

MEATER SE: CUT TO £55 (SRP £79.00)

Cook to temperature - not time, for less, with the exclusive to Amazon MEATER SE. The perfect foodie stocking filler this Christmas.

MEATER Plus: CUT TO £79.00 (SRP £99.00).

MEATER’s best-selling probe with over 33,000 5/5 star user review on Amazon

MEATER Pro: CUT TO £99.00 (RRP £129.00).

MEATER’s latest probe featuring a longer wireless range, slimmer design, higher temperature tolerance for open flame cooking, and waterproof design to allow deep frying and sous vide.

MEATER Block: CUT TO £175.00 (SRP £219.00).

Perfect for the cook and BBQ enthusiast, the MEATER Block stores and charges up to four MEATER Plus probes ready to cook and monitor four delicious meats or fish simultaneously. Boasts Standalone Mode – so if you don’t have Wi-Fi, no problem! A touch control screen allows you to cook easily, with built-in speakers providing audible notifications.

MEATER has celebrated over 60million cooks from its users worldwide with numbers continuing to grow every day. Check out @MEATERmade, the possibilities are endless.

To find out more about the MEATER range, and to grab yourself a digital sous chef, visit MEATER.

https://www.meater.com

How to Avoid the Classic Christmas Turkey Disaster

Christmas dinner is the centrepiece of the festive season, but every year, countless households unintentionally spoil the feast by mishandling the turkey. 

Whether it’s buying a substandard bird, failing to thaw a frozen one in time, or undercooking it, mistakes can lead to a less-than-merry meal—or worse, food poisoning. 

The good news is that these pitfalls are entirely avoidable with proper planning and care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensuring your turkey is both safe and delicious this Christmas.

The Basics: Fresh vs. Frozen

Before you even think about how to prepare your turkey, you need to decide whether to go fresh or frozen. Both have their pros and cons:

Fresh turkeys: These are convenient if you have limited freezer space and can often taste better due to the lack of freezing. However, they require prompt cooking to avoid spoilage.

Frozen turkeys: These are often more affordable and can be bought well in advance, making them a great option for planners. The downside? They take time (and patience) to thaw correctly.

Proper Handling: Fresh Turkeys

A fresh turkey may sound like less hassle, but it requires careful handling:

Keep it cold: Your turkey should be refrigerated at 0–5°C. Place it on a tray or dish to catch any drips and avoid cross-contamination.

Use it quickly: Fresh turkeys should be cooked within two days of purchase. Don’t leave them lingering in the fridge!

Avoid washing: Rinsing raw poultry can splash harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter onto nearby surfaces. Instead, pat it dry with paper towels.

Proper Handling: Frozen Turkeys

Frozen turkeys are a brilliant option, but they need to be treated with care to ensure they’re safe to eat. Here’s how:

Plan for thawing: A large turkey can take days to thaw properly. The rule of thumb is to allow 24 hours of fridge thawing time for every 2kg of bird.

Thaw safely: Always thaw the turkey in the fridge. Never defrost it on the counter, as this encourages bacteria to grow. If you’re short on time, you can defrost it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

Check for readiness: Before cooking, ensure the turkey is fully thawed. The breast and cavity should be soft, with no ice crystals remaining.

Cooking: The Golden Rules

The way you cook your turkey will make or break your Christmas dinner. Follow these guidelines for success:

Stuff wisely: If you’re stuffing the bird, do it just before cooking. Pre-stuffing can lead to bacterial growth. Better yet, cook the stuffing separately to ensure it’s heated evenly.

Cook thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 74°C in the thickest part of the breast and 82°C in the thigh.

Rest it: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for at least 20–30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bird.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving the giblets in: Always remove the giblets before cooking! They’re often hidden in the cavity, so don’t forget to check.

Undercooking: Pink meat isn’t festive. Use a thermometer to guarantee doneness.

Not planning ahead: Whether it’s forgetting to thaw the bird or running out of fridge space, poor planning can derail the day.

The Takeaway

Your Christmas turkey doesn’t have to be a source of stress or disappointment. With a little forethought and proper care, you can serve a meal that your family and friends will rave about. By safely handling and correctly cooking your turkey, you’ll avoid the pitfalls that turn festive cheer into culinary calamity.

Here’s to a perfectly roasted turkey and a joyous Christmas dinner!

Seeking Out Vegan Alternatives for a Tasty, Satisfying Christmas Cheeseboard

The festive season is a time for indulgence, and few things evoke the warm spirit of Christmas like a carefully curated cheeseboard. 

For those embracing a vegan lifestyle or catering to plant-based guests, creating a cheeseboard that’s both delicious and satisfying might seem daunting at first. 

However, with the abundance of vegan cheese options now available, you can craft a board that rivals any traditional spread. Here's how to assemble a show-stopping vegan Christmas cheeseboard. And here is the vegan cheseboard post I mentioned earlier.

1. Choose Your Vegan Cheeses

Vegan cheese has come a long way, and there’s now a rich variety to explore. Aim for a mix of textures and flavours to keep things interesting:

Soft and Creamy: Opt for vegan cream cheeses, cashew-based bries, or almond-based camemberts. These provide the luscious, spreadable texture many associate with festive cheeseboards.

Aged and Tangy: Look for plant-based blue cheeses or aged cheddars made from fermented cashews or soy. They offer the sharp, robust flavours that contrast beautifully with sweeter accompaniments.

Firm and Sliced: Include firmer options like vegan gouda or smoked cheeses, which can be sliced for crackers or nibbled on their own.

Pro tip: Brands like Violife, Kinda Co., and Mouse’s Favourite (a UK-based artisanal vegan cheesemaker) are fantastic starting points.

2. Add Complementary Crackers and Breads

The foundation for your cheeses deserves just as much thought. Opt for an assortment of textures:

Rustic sourdough or seeded bread slices for a hearty bite.

Gluten-free crispbreads for coeliac or gluten-sensitive guests.

Flavoured crackers like rosemary, charcoal, or oat-based options to complement different cheeses.

3. Sweet and Savoury Pairings

A good cheeseboard balances flavours with clever accompaniments. Here are some ideas:

Fruits: Fresh options like grapes, figs, or apple slices; dried choices like apricots or dates.

Chutneys and Jams: Festive chutneys such as spiced plum, cranberry, or fig and walnut add seasonal flair.

Nuts: Roasted almonds, candied pecans, or plain walnuts for added crunch.

Olives and Pickles: Provide a savoury contrast with marinated olives, pickled onions, or cornichons.

4. Include Vegan Meats and Extras

For added variety, incorporate plant-based charcuterie slices, pâtés, or even marinated tofu bites. Look for vegan brands offering salamis, chorizo slices, or mushroom-based pâtés to round out your board.

5. Finish with Festive Flourishes

6. Source some vegan wines, beers and ciders 

There are now a wide and growing range of wines, beers and ciders that are vegan-friendly which will make fine accompaniments for your carefully curated range of vegan cheeses and vegan meats. 

Presentation is key to making your cheeseboard truly special. Arrange your cheeses and accompaniments on a beautiful wooden board or slate. Garnish with rosemary sprigs, edible flowers, or pomegranate seeds for a festive touch.

Tips for Success

Shop Local: Check your local deli or farmer’s market for small-batch vegan cheeses; these often have unique flavours and textures.

Serve at Room Temperature: Vegan cheeses, like traditional ones, taste best when slightly softened. Remove them from the fridge 30–45 minutes before serving.

Label Everything: If you’re catering to a mix of dietary needs, label your cheeses and accompaniments to avoid any confusion.

By thoughtfully assembling a vegan Christmas cheeseboard, you can surprise your guests with a spread that’s every bit as indulgent and celebratory as the traditional version. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this festive cheeseboard will prove that everyone can partake in the cheesy joy of the season.

What are your favourite vegan cheeses or accompaniments? Share your suggestions in the comments!

Elevate Your Christmas Feast with Venison and Game

Christmas is a time for celebrating with family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. 

While many households stick to the traditional turkey or roast beef for their festive meal, there's something truly special about embracing a bit of culinary adventure. 

But this Christmas, why not consider adding a touch of tradition with a twist by serving venison or other game meat? 

Not only does it offer a rich and unique flavour profile, but it’s also a nod to classic British fare that can make your festive feast truly memorable.

Why Choose Venison or Game for Christmas?

Opting for venison or game meats, such as pheasant, wild duck, or partridge, can bring a sense of rustic elegance to your Christmas dinner. Game meats are often leaner, more flavourful, and packed with nutrients compared to more conventional meats. Plus, they have a distinctive taste that lends itself beautifully to hearty, festive dishes.

Here are some reasons why choosing game for your Christmas dinner is worth considering:

Rich, Deep Flavours: Venison and game meats have a rich, earthy flavour that pairs exceptionally well with seasonal ingredients like cranberries, chestnuts, and red wine.

Sustainability: Game meats are often more sustainable than farmed meats. Many game species are sourced from wild populations managed to ensure ecological balance, making them a more environmentally conscious choice.

Nutritional Benefits: Venison, for instance, is a fantastic source of lean protein, iron, and B vitamins. It’s lower in fat and cholesterol than traditional Christmas meats like turkey or goose.

Venison: The Star of the Show

If you’re looking for a main dish that will truly impress, venison is a fantastic option. This meat is both versatile and flavourful, lending itself to a variety of festive preparations. Whether roasted whole, slow-cooked, or served as steaks, venison pairs beautifully with seasonal spices and rich sauces.

Venison Roast Recipe Idea:

Ingredients: A venison haunch or loin, fresh rosemary, garlic cloves, olive oil, juniper berries, and a splash of red wine.

Instructions: Rub the venison with olive oil, crushed garlic, chopped rosemary, and ground juniper berries. Roast in the oven until medium-rare (about 20 minutes per pound at 180°C). Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. Serve with a rich red wine gravy, roasted root vegetables, and cranberry sauce for a festive finish.

Pro Tip: Marinate the meat overnight in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and herbs to enhance its flavour and tenderness.

A Festive Game Feast: Pheasant, Wild Duck, and Partridge

If you want to offer something different but still keep it traditional, consider incorporating a selection of game birds. These smaller birds are perfect for a more intimate Christmas dinner or can be served alongside a larger roast to offer guests a variety of flavours.

Roasted Pheasant: Pheasant has a mild game flavour that’s perfect for those new to game meats. Try roasting it with butter, thyme, and a drizzle of honey for a golden, crispy skin. Serve with bread sauce, Brussels sprouts, and roasted potatoes for a truly British Christmas experience.

Braised Wild Duck: For a richer, more decadent option, wild duck is a fantastic choice. Braising the duck with orange zest, star anise, and a splash of port creates a sweet and tangy sauce that cuts through the richness of the meat.

Stuffed Partridge: Partridge is tender and subtly flavoured, making it ideal for stuffing. Consider a stuffing mix of sausage, apple, chestnuts, and sage for a festive twist. Bake until golden, and serve with a rich game jus.

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

Game meats pair exceptionally well with hearty, seasonal sides that celebrate the winter harvest. Here are some ideas to complement your Christmas game feast:

Red Cabbage with Apples: Slow-cooked red cabbage with apples, cinnamon, and a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy contrast to rich game meats.

Celeriac Mash: Swap out traditional mashed potatoes for creamy celeriac mash for a nutty, earthy flavour.

Cranberry and Port Sauce: This rich sauce works beautifully with venison and game birds, adding a festive sweetness to the dish.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right wine can elevate your Christmas game meal to new heights. Game meats often pair well with full-bodied red wines that can stand up to their robust flavours.

Venison: Opt for a rich, tannic wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Malbec.

Pheasant: Try a lighter red such as Pinot Noir or a classic French Burgundy.

Wild Duck and Partridge: Pair with a fruit-forward wine like a Zinfandel or a Merlot, which balances the richness of the meat.

Tips for Cooking Game

Cooking game can seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before, but with a few tips, you’ll be serving up a succulent, show-stopping Christmas dinner:

Don’t Overcook It: Game meats, particularly venison, are leaner than beef or lamb. To prevent it from becoming tough, aim for a medium-rare finish.

Rest the Meat: Allow your roast to rest after cooking so the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.

Use Bold Flavours: Game meats can handle strong herbs and spices, so don’t be shy with ingredients like juniper, thyme, and rosemary.

Wrapping Up: A Festive Feast to Remember

This Christmas, why not break with tradition and surprise your family and friends with a feast centred around venison or game? Not only will it make for a memorable meal, but it’s also a wonderful way to bring a touch of heritage and elegance to your festive table.

Whether you choose a tender venison roast or a succulent pheasant dish, serving game at Christmas is a celebration of flavour, tradition, and the spirit of the season. With the right preparation and accompaniments, you’ll create a festive meal that’s sure to become a cherished Christmas tradition.

My wife and I have tried game meats before, we are probably going with the more traditional options of turkey or beef.

However, we are wishing you a Christmas filled with warmth, joy, and delicious food!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas... Kebab? Yes! With I am Doner!

Oh! You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout we’re telling you why! The Christmas Dinner Doner is coming to town. That’s right, a Christmas dinner... but in a kebab!

Better kebab brand, I am Doner, are encouraging everyone to don your ugly Christmas jumpers and brave the cold for a visit to one of their stores as they bring back this legendary Christmas special.

Packed full of honey and sage roast turkey doner with roast potatoes, shredded sprout, crispy parsnips, red cabbage, root vegetable and cranberries, smothered in turkey gravy, all in a wrap or in a bowl. And those who don't eat meat needn't feel left out, because a vegan option is also available.

The special will run right through to the end of December in all its UK stores.

Founder, Paul Baron said: "After the incredible success of the Christmas Kebab in recent years we’ve brought back and expect it to be bigger than ever before as we introduce it to our new customers at our London, Liverpool and Datchet stores! With each kebab featuring at least ten items of veg we are providing 2 of the five a day, making it much more than a guilty pleasure, or you could even say ‘elfy!”

https://www.iamdoner.co.uk.

Donald Russell meats

Royal Warrant holder and mail order butcher, Donald Russell (www.donaldrussell.com), is passionate about supplying its customers with only the best and its range of delicious food products are perfect for Christmas.

Browse from the huge selection of products online, for starters opt for Ultimate Gravadlax Salmon which has been lightly smoked over Oakwood chips, for your Christmas dinner choose between Free-Range Loué Geese, Free-Range Turkey, Easy Carving Roasts or a 5-Bone Rib of Beef, grass-fed and traditionally matured on the bone.

And for the perfect ending to your Christmas meal enjoy a Mosimann's Christmas Pudding created by legendary chef Anton Mosimann (prices on request).