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The holiday party planning days are here for the season, which means we are all busy searching for the best dishes to serve and celebrate with alongside friends and family. If you’re inclined to switch things up this year, what better way than to go a French-inspired route?
French Christmas foods encapsulate the best of the holidays with high-quality ingredients, elegant dishes, and indulgent courses. These all make for the elevated feast we love! While our traditional holiday meals are plenty cozy and nostalgic (comfort food is a must), finding ways to innovate for our special festive meals can be a way to bring even more cheer, sophistication, and French flair to our end-of-the-year gatherings. And you know I love to incorporate some French flair whenever I get the chance!
In France, it’s safe to say that food is the main event. More than gifts, family games, and friendly-themed contests, a big Christmas Eve meal is what it’s all about. In the country of cheese and wine, the 24th of December is the set date for this big celebration. Known as Le Réveillon, this occasion is an invitation for guests to indulge in a lavish feast that elevates the concept of a traditional meal to a true art form – and we don’t want to be left out!
Why France?
We already love French fashion, so why not become lovers of the food as well? When we think about the masters of food around the world, our baguette-loving friends are sure to guarantee a top spot in our ranking. If you ask me, waking up on Christmas morning after a real French feast sounds like a wonderful experience.
The French have mastered the art of crafting memorable moments around the table, where every single bite carries the weight of tradition. Beyond world-famous croissants and crepes, French cuisine holds a rich variety of other delicious and unique foods that will turn your holiday party into the culinary event of the year.
Starters: Small Bites, Big Flavors
As the French Christmas feast kicks off, build the anticipation with a stunning array of starters that set the stage for what’s to come. We all know and love our hors d’oeuvres, especially when it comes to a holiday party; these small bites keep your guests happy and entertained as conversation begins to flow into the evening.
From traditional ingredient-focused appetizers to more extravagant creations, the French elevate the art of appetizers to new heights during this festive time of year, taking pride in commencing this iconic meal with a luxurious first course. While many of these dishes may be considered unconventional outside of France, it might just be worth giving them a try!
Escargot
If you are really looking to commit to the French Christmas feast experience, escargot might be the way to go. Embark on your culinary journey with this classic French delicacy.
Often prepared with garlic, parsley, and generous amounts of butter, this snail dish showcases the finesse of French cooking with only a few quality ingredients that make for an indulgent starter. This dish is sure to do exceptionally well for seasoned French cuisine lovers.
Foie Gras
Another popular delicacy and Revéillon staple in France. Foie gras, a fatty liver pâté, elevates your taste buds with its decadent and creamy texture.Â
Serve this rich spread on a platter with small pieces of toast, fruit preserves, honey, and other preferred types of bread for your guests to enjoy!
Cheese Course
Find the perfect French cheese here
No French feast is complete without a meticulously curated cheese platter.
More traditionally, the cheese course in French cuisine is served after the main dish and before dessert. Unlike our beloved charcuterie boards, this course is known to be accompanied simply by fresh bread and the occasional salad. The choice is yours! Think through your perfect dinner and serve accordingly; after all, we don’t expect any guests will complain about having delicious French cheese at any time of the night.
The French take their cheese seriously, offering an exquisite selection that represents the diversity of their regions. If you’re not a cheese connoisseur yourself, we recommend heading to a dairy shop for some top-notch recommendations an expert cheesemonger. Asking for a fun variety of French cheeses is a great way to learn about new variations and impress your guests in the process!Â
Oysters
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It’s clear the French are into some quality seafood when it comes to their holiday dinner.
Fresh and briny, oysters make a sophisticated and, more importantly, anticipated appearance on French Christmas tables. Garnished simply with lemon wedges, these delicious bites should be served on a chic platter over ice for freshness and, of course, an opportunity for an extra touch of elegance.
Rillettes
This spread is typically made from pork or duck, but can also be made using smoked salmon for variety. The protein is slow-cooked, shredded, and mixed with seasonings and its own fat, making for a rich and creamy paste.
Similarly to a pate, this starter can be slathered on different types of fresh bread, toast, and even crackers. While making this from scratch can be time-consuming, this starter may just be worth the trouble.
Quiche Lorraine
A classic that needs no introduction, Quiche Lorraine graces French tables with its flaky pastry and savory filling of bacon, cream, and cheese. Its timeless appeal makes it a staple in holiday celebrations.
For some extra charm, consider making mini versions for your guests to enjoy as they trickle into the party.
Salmon Gravlax
Infused with dill and a touch of sweetness, Salmon Gravlax offers a refreshing and elegant start to the Christmas feast. Served thinly sliced, this appetizer is a harmonious blend of flavors that captivates the palate.
Serve whole with a carving knife for a decadent spread, or thinly sliced into elegant, easy-to-eat pieces. For an even easier and stress-free party plan, reach out to local vendors to find the ideal gravlax for your dinner.
Main Course: Where French Tradition Meets Culinary Mastery
Starting to get a feel for the French way? Even after a decadent selection of appetizers, the French mean business when it comes to the principal course of a holiday dinner.
For the main meal, traditional dishes work overtime to blend unparalleled flavors with flawless execution, creating an experience for your guests to remember.
Chapon
Just like at every big holiday dinner table, a well-cooked bird is an essential part of the French holidays.
At the heart of many French Christmas tables, you’ll find chapon – a capon, or castrated rooster, roasted to perfection. This succulent and flavorful poultry dish takes center stage, adorned with a variety of herbs and spices. Due to its smaller size, the capon is usually a great option for smaller celebrations without sacrificing any taste.
Coq au Vin
Perhaps one of the most famous French dishes of all time, Coq au Vin is a must-have for our friends across the Atlantic – and we understand why.Â
Slow-cooked in red wine, this iconic savory chicken stew captures the essence of rustic French cooking, delivering a depth of flavors that dance on the palate and fit perfectly into our winter holiday season. Talk about a cozy holiday dinner!
Boeuf Bourguignon
If you love the concept of Coq au Vin but lean more towards the red meats, Boeuf Bourguignon is likely to be your French stew of choice.Â
This hearty beef stew (any Julia Child fans out there?) is simmered in red wine, mushrooms, and onions. Its rich, complex flavors might make this dish a staple during the holiday season for even the pickiest of guests.
Cassoulet
Originating in the southern region of France, Cassoulet is another hearty and comforting dish that features slow-cooked beans, sausages, and meats. Seasoned with a variety of aromatic herbs, this recipe continues to perfectly embody the warmth and richness of French holiday dining.
Beyond its amazing traditional flavor, this dish is also a great way to integrate vegetarian or vegan options into your holiday feast! To adapt this recipe, leave out any animal protein and add in winter vegetables for an equally delicious meat-free stew.
Duck Confit
For our fearless chefs and recipe enthusiasts!
A succulent masterpiece, Duck Confit involves slow-cooking duck legs in their own fat until they are irresistibly tender. The result is a truly special-occasion dish that will transport you to France with every bite.
Lobster Thermidor
For those seeking an added dash of luxury in their French-inspired Christmas feast, Lobster Thermidor delivers a truly decadent experience. While this dish certainly does not make an appearance at every French holiday dinner, it is a great option for those looking to take their spread to the next level.
In this recipe, tender lobster meat is bathed in a creamy, brandy-infused sauce, creating a dish that’s both opulent and festive.
Dessert: A Sweet Symphony of French Indulgence
You know how important the dessert table is on major holidays. Fresh from baking all of those Thanksgiving pies, who is ready to switch it up for a fun and different holiday experience?
As the main course concludes, the French Christmas feast gracefully transitions into its last stage, where desserts take the spotlight. This is the grand finale, a moment of (shall we say, more) indulgence that showcases the artistry of French patisseries and the love for intricate, delightful flavors.
Bûche de Noël
If there is one dessert that absolutely must make an appearance during a French Christmas Eve feast, this is it. Meet the most recognizable French Christmas dessert out there: the Bûche de Noël!Â
Known by many as a Yule log cake, this dessert is a truly quintessential part of the French holiday: a rolled sponge cake filled with decadent creams and adorned with festive decorations. More specifically, the cylinder-shaped cake is decorated to look like a wood log, making for both a visual and culinary treat at the dessert table.
To get you kickstarted on some ideas, classic cream fillings for the Bûche de Noël include chocolate, vanilla, passion fruit, and many others, making for the perfect dessert to adapt to your available ingredients. If you are limiting yourself to one classic French dessert for your Christmas day, this is our pick!
Galette des Rois
Also known as King Cake, the Galette des Rois is a French pastry associated with the celebration of Epiphany, a January 6th holiday that celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus.
While this famous pastry is typically enjoyed in the early days of the new year, it is a great French dessert to serve throughout all of your holiday plans. Layers of puff pastry envelop a rich almond cream, and a hidden charm, or “fève,” tucked inside adds an element of surprise to the festivities. If you want to take part in this fun tradition, remember to use oven-safe trinkets that won’t melt in the oven and ruin your dessert!
Beyond being delicious and beloved in France, this galette keeps things simple with a few ingredients: puff pastry and almond cream filling made from ground almonds, sugar, eggs, butter, and almond extract or rum for an extra kick.
Candied Fruits
Fresh fruits are often a great addition to any dessert platter, but the French also take it up a notch by including their more indulgent versions at the holiday table.
Candied fruits are among the popular choices when it comes to the dessert tables of traditional French families. If you can find them around your area, these store-bought treats are an easy and beautiful addition to your last course. Take a peek at your local French supermarket or store to complete your traditional French Christmas dinner!
Marrons Glacés
These candied and glazed chestnuts are yet another delicacy that many can’t live without when it comes to fully enjoying the holidays in true French style.Â
These addictive nuts are easy to make on your own and can be prepared well ahead of time, making them sound like an even better choice to fill your dessert menu with!
Drinks: Toasting to Joy and Tradition
In the realm of French Christmas celebrations, libations are more than just beverages; they are an integral part of the festive ritual that adds a touch of effervescence to the joyous atmosphere.
From timeless classics to regional specialties, the French approach to holiday drinks is a testament to their appreciation for refined tastes and good conversation.
To step up your hosting game or enchant as a guest, consider taking your pick out of this list and upgrading the French holiday experience for you and your loved ones.
Champagne
It doesn’t get more French than this! What better way to commence the festivities than with the effervescent sparkle of Champagne? A symbol of celebration, Champagne should flow freely as glasses clink and toasts resound, marking the beginning of a special Christmas feast.Â
For guests who don’t drink alcohol, non-alcoholic options are the ideal way to make everyone feel included and ready to celebrate together!
Mulled Wine
As the winter winds chill the air, mulled wine warms both hearts and hands as we get over the crazy past few days of holiday prep. The French infuse red wine with spices, citrus, and a hint of sweetness, creating a soul-soothing blend that embodies the essence of the season.
Bonus points? You’ll have the best-smelling house in the neighborhood!
Hot Chocolate
To combat the colder climates, hot chocolate is a beloved French winter indulgence. Thick, rich, and often accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream, this comforting companion is sure to make plenty of appearances during the festive season.
If there are little ones running around, consider serving this along with the dessert course for a sure hit with the younger crowd.
Kir Royale
Reserved for special occasions in France, this drink is a simple way to elevate your dinner party and kick off the celebrations in style.Â
This cocktail blends Champagne and crème de cassis for a well-balanced drink with a sweet edge. For a little something extra, use fruits to decorate!
French 75
If your guests are big into cocktails, the classic French 75 is not one to miss. In keeping with the festive spirit, ingredients include Champagne, gin, sugar, and lemon juice. Raising a glass has never been easier!Â
A Culinary Canvas of French Holiday Foods
From starters that tease the palate, main courses that embody culinary mastery, desserts that delight the senses, and drinks that toast to joy, a true French holiday celebration has got you and your guests all the way covered.
Much like in North America, traditional holiday foods can differ greatly throughout France. With their own history and consequent dishes, different regions of the country have their own traditional ways when it comes to celebrating the end of the year.
Whether you are looking for an easy and different appetizer to include in your Christmas dishes or a whole new French recipe for your family meal, there is something for everyone!
Feeling ready to dive in and experiment during the best time of the year? Then this is the way to do it.
Take your pick of these delicious French classics for the whole family and spice up your Christmas time like never before. Whether it’s a sip of Champagne, a bite of coq au vin, or a shared moment around a cheese-filled table, may your holiday season be filled with the warmth and joy that are always at the center of a French Christmas feast. Bon appétit and joyeux Noël!
Now that you’ve got the French holiday foods, it’s time to get your French outfit! Up Next: 45 Fall Parisian Street Style Outfits That You’ll Want To Add to Your Outfit Rotation ASAP
