Explore traditional holiday foods, recipes, and cooking traditions from around the world. Learn about the cultural significance and preparation of special holiday dishes.
Discover the delicious dishes that make holidays special around the world
Roast Turkey or Ham
The Christmas feast varies by culture but typically includes a large roasted meat, seasonal vegetables, and rich desserts
Represents abundance, family unity, and the celebration of Christ's birth
Roast Turkey
A harvest feast celebrating gratitude and abundance, featuring foods native to North America
Honors the first harvest celebration between Pilgrims and Native Americans
Easter Ham or Lamb
Spring foods symbolizing renewal and new life, with eggs being the central symbol
Celebrates the resurrection of Christ and the arrival of spring
Whole Fish
Foods with symbolic meanings for luck, prosperity, and family unity
Each dish represents wishes for good fortune, longevity, and happiness
Biryani or Curry
Sweet treats and savory snacks shared with family and friends
Celebrates the victory of light over darkness with foods that bring joy
Brisket or Roast Chicken
Foods fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days
Each dish celebrates the miracle of Hanukkah and the victory of the Maccabees
Unique holiday foods from different cultures around the world
Rich, hearty dishes with deep cultural roots
United Kingdom
A rich, steamed pudding made with dried fruits, suet, and spices, traditionally served with brandy butter
Represents the wealth and abundance of the Christmas season
Germany
A sweet bread filled with dried fruits, nuts, and marzipan, dusted with powdered sugar
Symbolizes the baby Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes
Italy
A tall, dome-shaped sweet bread with candied fruits and raisins
Traditional Christmas bread that brings families together
Symbolic foods with deep cultural meaning
China
Round pastries filled with sweet bean paste or lotus seed paste, eaten during Mid-Autumn Festival
Symbolizes family reunion and the full moon
Japan
Chewy rice cakes made from glutinous rice, often filled with sweet red bean paste
Represents good fortune and is eaten during New Year celebrations
Turkey/Middle East
Sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey
Celebrated during various holidays as a symbol of sweetness and prosperity
Fusion of indigenous and colonial traditions
Mexico
Corn dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks and steamed
Traditional Christmas food that brings families together for preparation
Canada
A meat pie traditionally made with pork, veal, or beef, served during Christmas
Represents the French-Canadian tradition of celebrating with hearty, warming foods
United States
A sweet pie made with pecans, corn syrup, and eggs, popular during Thanksgiving
Celebrates the native pecan and the abundance of the harvest season
Expert advice to help you create the perfect holiday feast
Interesting tidbits about holiday foods and their origins
