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What is Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
When it comes to celebrating Christmas in the Southern United States, the dinner feast is a centerpiece of the festivities. It’s a time when families gather to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Southern culture. Typical Southern Christmas dinners are loaded with traditional dishes, rich flavors, and comforting aromas that fill the air, inviting everyone to the table. In this article, we will explore ten cozy and traditional Southern dinner recipes that are sure to make your Christmas celebration unforgettable.
Ingredients & Measurements for Southern Christmas Dinner Feast
1 large ham
2 cups of buttermilk
4 cups of collard greens
3 cups of cornmeal
1 tablespoon of salt
2 cups of green beans
1 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
3 sweet potatoes
1 cup of pecans
How Long Does It Take to Make Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
Preparing a Southern Christmas dinner is a labor of love and will usually take a few hours from start to finish, depending on how many dishes you choose to include. From the succulent ham to the side of perfectly seasoned collard greens, each recipe contributes to an overall delicious and memorable meal. The key is timing the cooking processes so everything can be served hot and fresh, creating the ultimate festive feast that your family and friends will cherish.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and get ready to craft an enjoyable Southern Christmas dinner that will fill your home with laughter, joy, and delightful flavors.
How to Make Southern Christmas Dinner Feast (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven for the Ham
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for cooking the ham.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Take your large ham and score the surface in a diamond pattern. Mix together 1 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to make a glaze. Rub this mixture over the scored surface of the ham.
Step 3: Make the Cornbread Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of cornmeal with 1 tablespoon of salt. This will serve as the base for your easy-to-make cornbread.
Step 4: Cook the Collard Greens
In a large pot, bring 2 cups of buttermilk to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in 4 cups of chopped collard greens and cook until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Boil and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop 3 sweet potatoes, then place them in boiling water. Cook until they are soft, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes, adding a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon for flavor.
Step 6: Steam the Green Beans
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and place 2 cups of green beans in a steamer basket. Steam until the beans are bright green and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Toast the Pecans
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add 1 cup of pecans. Toast them until they become fragrant, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once toasted, chop the pecans coarsely.
Step 8: Serve the Southern Christmas Dinner
Once everything is cooked, slice the ham and serve it on a platter alongside the collard greens, cornbread, mashed sweet potatoes, and steamed green beans. Top the green beans with the toasted pecans for added crunch.
Pro Tips for Perfect Southern Christmas Dinner Feast
For easy-to-make recipes, prepare the sweet potatoes and collard greens ahead of time. Ensure the ham is at room temperature before scoring for even cooking. For an extra touch, serve cornbread warm, and consider adding a drizzle of honey or hot pepper jelly for unique flavor enhancements. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your Southern Christmas dinner with these quick recipes!
Best Cooking Techniques for Southern Christmas Dinner Feast
Glazing the Ham
Scoring the surface of the ham allows the glaze to penetrate and enhance the flavor. A simple mixture of sugar and cinnamon caramelizes as it bakes, creating a beautiful, flavorful crust. Bake the ham slowly at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
Preparing Collard Greens
Simmer collard greens in buttermilk to soften their robust flavor. This technique infuses the greens with richness, balancing their earthy tones. Stir them frequently until tender for the best texture.
Making Cornbread
Mixing cornmeal with salt creates the foundation for classic Southern cornbread. Pour the batter into a hot, greased skillet for a crispy crust, and bake until golden brown for a perfect side dish.
Mashing Sweet Potatoes
Boil sweet potatoes until they are soft, then mash them with sugar and cinnamon for sweetness. This technique maximizes their natural flavors and creates a creamy texture that pairs well with savory dishes.
Steaming Green Beans
Steaming green beans preserves their bright color and crisp-tender texture. Keep them in the steamer only until they turn vibrant green—that way, they maintain their nutrients and crunch.
Toasting Pecans
Toasting pecans in a dry skillet releases their natural oils, enhancing their flavor. A few minutes on medium heat will suffice; keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
FAQs About Southern Christmas Dinner Feast
How long should I cook Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
The ham should be baked for about 15 to 20 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C). The sides take approximately 30 minutes to prepare, but timing may vary based on your stove and prep speed.
Can I make Southern Christmas Dinner Feast ahead of time?
Yes, many components can be prepared in advance. The collard greens and mashed sweet potatoes can be made the day before and reheated before serving.
What is the best way to store leftovers from Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions, which can last for several months.
Can I substitute ingredients in Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
Yes, you can substitute kale for collard greens if needed, or use regular milk in place of buttermilk. Adjust spices and sugars according to your taste preferences.
What can I serve as a dessert for Southern Christmas Dinner Feast?
Classic Southern desserts like pecan pie, sweet potato pie, or a rich chocolate cake would perfectly round out your Christmas feast.
Final Thoughts on Southern Christmas Dinner Feast
This delightful Southern Christmas dinner brings warmth and tradition to your holiday table. The combination of a succulent glazed ham, tender collard greens, and sweet mashed potatoes creates a symphony of flavors that embody the spirit of Southern hospitality. Sharing these beloved dishes with family and friends will certainly make your Christmas celebration cozy and memorable.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Classic Southern Cornbread
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Slow-Cooked Southern Green Beans
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