Markus Anecdotes - Christmas Dinner in the Netherlands: A Festive Culinary Tradition
Written by Markus with photos by Markus
Christmas in the Netherlands is a time of family, togetherness, and celebration. One of the most important aspects of the holiday season is the Christmas dinner, which varies from family to family, but always involves rich and comforting food. Whether it’s a lavish multi-course meal or a casual, interactive gathering, the food plays a central role in the Dutch holiday experience. Christmas in the Netherlands is celebrated not only for its religious significance but also as a time for creating memories around the dinner table. Let’s explore the different aspects of the Dutch Christmas dinner, from the customs and traditions to the delightful foods that make it a truly special time of the year.
The holiday season in the Netherlands lasts for several weeks, but Christmas celebrations come to a head on Christmas Eve (Kerstavond) and Christmas Day (1st and 2nd Kerstdag). Kerstavond is typically a quieter evening for Dutch families, often spent at home with loved ones, preparing for the main Christmas Day festivities. While Christmas Day is the occasion for the grand feast, the atmosphere around both evenings is one of warmth, relaxation, and festive joy.
Dutch homes during Christmas are filled with holiday decorations. Christmas trees, adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments, are placed in living rooms or main gathering areas. Some homes also feature light displays in the windows, while candles are frequently used to enhance the cozy atmosphere. The home is meant to feel inviting, offering a sense of comfort and coziness as families prepare to share a meal together.
At the heart of this celebration is the Christmas dinner, which serves as a focal point for the holiday. It’s not just about the food itself, but about coming together as a family and enjoying the pleasures of cooking and eating together. The dinner table is often set with festive tableware, and the food is carefully planned to impress and satisfy.
A Multi-Course Dutch Christmas Dinner
The Dutch Christmas dinner typically spans several courses, with each dish carefully chosen to highlight both tradition and indulgence. These meals are often prepared with a great deal of care, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The courses usually include a combination of cold appetizers, hot main courses, and indulgent desserts that embody the spirit of the season.
Appetizers: Light but Luxurious Beginnings
Christmas appetizers in the Netherlands are often elegant yet simple. These appetizers are typically served to whet the appetite before the larger dishes, offering a preview of the flavors to come. While the exact selection can vary, some classic appetizers include:
Smoked Salmon: Smoked salmon is a luxurious choice for a starter and is often served with a mustard sauce or lemon wedges. It might also be paired with dill or capers, adding an extra layer of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with freshly baked bread or crispy crackers. The creamy texture of the salmon balances well with the acidity of the mustard sauce, making it a classic starter.
Pickled Herring: Herring is an iconic Dutch ingredient, particularly around the holidays. Served as a cold appetizer, the pickled herring is sometimes accompanied by onions or pickles. It’s typically served in bite-sized pieces, making it easy for guests to nibble. The tangy, briny flavor of the herring is refreshing before moving on to the richer flavors of the main course.
Pâté and Mousse: Another common appetizer is pâté, which is often made from duck or liver. This smooth, flavorful spread is typically served with toast or a variety of breads. Sometimes the pâté is paired with tangy pickles or fruits like apple slices to add a hint of sweetness. Mousse, made from liver or mushrooms, is also a popular option for those seeking something a little lighter but still indulgent.
Cheese Platters: Dutch cheese is well-known worldwide, and no Dutch Christmas dinner would be complete without a cheese platter. A variety of cheeses such as Gouda, Edam, and Leiden are often included, sometimes served with fruit, nuts, or honey. The cheeses are sliced or cubed, and guests are invited to help themselves. The sweetness of honey and the saltiness of the cheeses create a delightful contrast that sets the tone for the meal.
The main course of the Dutch Christmas dinner is traditionally a feast of roast meats, accompanied by rich sides and sauces. The meal is often heavy and hearty, designed to fill the guests and provide a satisfying centerpiece to the celebration. Some of the most popular dishes for the main course include:
Roast Beef, Turkey, or Goose: One of the most traditional choices for the main course is roast beef, often seasoned with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic. It’s roasted to perfection, creating a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Turkey is another popular option for the Christmas meal, often prepared with stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce. In some families, goose is served as a special treat, offering a more indulgent choice. The richness of the goose, paired with flavorful gravies, provides a decadent touch to the meal.
Rinderrollade: This rolled roast, known as rinderrollade, is a classic Dutch dish. The beef is rolled up with a savory filling of bacon, onions, and herbs, then roasted to perfection. It’s usually served in thin slices, with the tender meat complemented by the flavorful filling. This dish is typically served with a rich sauce, which enhances the flavors of the beef.
Slow-Cooked Casseroles: In some regions, Dutch families prefer slow-cooked stews or casseroles for their Christmas meal. These dishes are designed to cook slowly over several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Dishes like stoofvlees (braised beef stew) or hutspot (a stew of mashed potatoes and vegetables) are popular choices. These dishes are comforting and filling, providing a satisfying and hearty option for Christmas dinner.
Side Dishes: Adding Flavor and Texture
Side dishes in the Netherlands are hearty and comforting, designed to complement the richness of the meat while offering variety in flavor and texture. These sides can range from vegetables to mashed potatoes, and they are essential to creating a well-rounded meal.
Stamppot: Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish consisting of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables. Common variations include hutspot, which is made with mashed potatoes and carrots, or boerenkool stamppot, made with kale. These mashed potato dishes are typically served with sausage or bacon, adding saltiness and depth to the dish. Stamppot is particularly popular in colder months, as it is warm and filling, perfect for the winter season.
Roast Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are commonly served at Christmas dinners. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and when paired with herbs and butter, they become a perfect accompaniment to the rich meats. Brussels sprouts, in particular, are a traditional favorite in Dutch Christmas dinners, often roasted or sautéed with bacon or onions.
Sauces and Gravies: A rich sauce is an essential part of any Dutch Christmas dinner. Gravy made from the drippings of roast meats is poured over the meat and side dishes, adding depth and richness to the flavors. Many families also serve a variety of other sauces, such as mustard-based sauces or cranberry sauce, to provide additional flavors that complement the main course.
Gourmetten: A Fun Dutch Tradition
One of the most distinctive aspects of Christmas dinner in the Netherlands is the tradition of gourmetten. This method of dining is particularly popular on Christmas Eve (Kerstavond) and involves a more casual, interactive experience. Rather than sitting down to a pre-prepared meal, families gather around a small portable grill, often placed in the center of the table. Each person is given a small pan to grill their own food, which can include meat, seafood, vegetables, and small sausages.
Gourmetten offers a unique and fun experience for families, particularly those with children. Everyone takes turns cooking their own food, creating a communal atmosphere where guests can choose their favorite ingredients, experiment with different flavors, and cook at their own pace. The grilling process is usually accompanied by side dishes like French fries, bread, or salads, and a variety of sauces are provided for dipping.
The beauty of gourmetten is that it allows everyone to customize their meal. If someone prefers a well-done piece of meat, they can cook it for longer, while others can cook their food to their own preferred level of doneness. This interactive element makes gourmetten a highly social and enjoyable experience. It also allows for a more relaxed atmosphere, as there’s no pressure to serve a formal, plated dinner. Instead, the focus is on enjoying each other’s company while preparing and sharing a meal together.
As the main courses come to an end, Dutch families turn their attention to the desserts. Christmas desserts in the Netherlands are rich and indulgent, offering a sweet ending to an already satisfying meal. These treats range from pastries to baked goods, many of which are specific to the holiday season.
Kerststol: This traditional Christmas bread, known as kerststol, is a beloved holiday treat in the Netherlands. It’s a dense, sweet bread filled with dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and candied peel. The bread is often enriched with marzipan, giving it an extra layer of sweetness. Kerststol is typically sliced and served with butter or enjoyed on its own with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s a popular breakfast or afternoon snack during the Christmas season.
Banketstaaf: Another Christmas favorite is banketstaaf, a pastry filled with almond paste. This sweet, flaky pastry is rolled into a log shape and baked until golden brown. It is typically sliced into pieces and served as part of the dessert spread. The almond paste filling is rich and aromatic, offering a fragrant, nutty flavor that pairs well with a hot drink.
Oliebollen: Although oliebollen are traditionally associated with New Year’s Eve celebrations, they are also enjoyed during the Christmas period. These deep-fried dough balls are dusted with powdered sugar and can be filled with raisins or currants. Some people like to dip them in chocolate sauce or enjoy them alongside a cup of hot chocolate. Oliebollen are a festive, indulgent treat that adds to the holiday cheer.
Speculaas: The Netherlands is famous for its spiced cookies, and speculaas is one of the most popular varieties. These cookies are made with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, giving them a warm, aromatic flavor that is synonymous with Christmas. Speculaas cookies are often shaped into festive molds, such as windmills or Christmas trees, and are served with a hot drink or alongside other holiday desserts.
Including Pets in the Christmas Festivities
Including my two dogs and six cats in the Dutch Christmas dinner festivities is a wonderful way to ensure that they, too, are part of the family celebration. Here are some thoughtful ways to include your pets in the holiday joy while ensuring their safety and comfort:
Pet-Specific Treats and Meals
For your dogs and cats, consider preparing special pet-friendly meals or treats. Many Dutch families make sure their pets are included in the festivities by offering them food that is safe for them to enjoy.
For Dogs: Prepare a special dog-friendly Christmas meal. A good idea would be a simple stew made from lean chicken, carrots, potatoes, and peas, which is safe for dogs and offers a nutritious treat. You can serve this in festive dog bowls next to your family’s dinner table. Or, if you're doing gourmetten, you could grill small pieces of dog-safe meat and serve them as part of the meal.
For Cats: Since cats are obligate carnivores, you can prepare a festive meat-based meal for them. Cook some turkey or chicken (without any seasoning, onions, or garlic), shred it into small pieces, and serve it in their bowls. You could even add a little pet-friendly gravy or a few cat-safe treats on top to make it extra special. Be sure to avoid any food that may be harmful to them, such as chocolate, onions, or certain spices.
Decorating for Pets
While the human family is busy decking out the home with Christmas decorations, consider adding a few items specifically for your pets. For example, you could:
Place festive collars or bandanas on your dogs, and perhaps even find some cute cat-themed holiday accessories like red velvet bows or Christmas-themed collars. It’ll help them look the part for any family photos and make them feel included in the festivities.
Set up a special pet corner with cozy bedding, blankets, or pet beds where they can relax while the family enjoys the festivities. This can be near the Christmas tree or in a quiet part of the house, where they can observe the celebrations from a comfortable spot. This is particularly useful for your cats, who might prefer a peaceful retreat away from the excitement.
Incorporating Pets into Family Photos
A family Christmas photo wouldn’t be complete without your pets! Dress up your two dogs and six cats in their holiday best and make sure they’re part of the family picture. For your cats, this could mean a simple, festive collar or a soft holiday-themed bandana that won’t bother them too much. Your dogs, especially with their likely eagerness to join in, can be dressed in adorable reindeer costumes or bandanas that match the theme of the celebration.
You can place the dogs beside your children or other family members, and set your cats in a safe area where they can comfortably join the family scene. Since cats might not always be thrilled with posing, ensure you have a peaceful environment, or take some candid shots to capture their natural holiday cheer.
Interactive Christmas Gifts
Just like the rest of the family, your pets deserve Christmas presents! Consider buying some holiday-themed toys and treats for both your dogs and cats. For your dogs, you can get them chew toys, interactive puzzle toys, or soft, plush toys in the shape of Christmas trees or snowmen. For your cats, catnip toys or holiday-themed scratching posts can provide endless entertainment and excitement during the holiday season.
For an extra fun twist, you could wrap these pet gifts and let them "unwrap" them as part of a family tradition. Watch as your dogs eagerly tear into their wrapped presents or as your cats curiously paw at their gifts to discover what’s inside.
Holiday Entertainment
After your dinner and gift exchange, the fun doesn’t have to end! Consider including your pets in the festive activities by engaging them in some holiday-themed entertainment.
For the dogs, you can organize a little game or activity that includes them. For instance, playing fetch with a new ball or teaching them a new trick like "sit" or "stay" with treats might be a fun activity for the whole family. You could even make it a fun game by hiding small dog treats around the living room and having them sniff them out.
For the cats, set up a window perch where they can watch the lights twinkling outside or the Christmas tree, which is an entertaining and stimulating activity for them. You could also create a special cat tree or climbing space decorated with tinsel or soft toys, where they can safely explore and play. If your cats enjoy it, some gentle interactive play with a string or feather toy can also keep them occupied during family time.
6. Ensuring Comfort and Safety
With so much going on during Christmas dinner, it’s important to consider your pets' comfort and safety, especially if they are overwhelmed by the noise or activity. Have a designated quiet space ready for them to retreat to if they need some time away from the hustle and bustle. Make sure their usual routines—feeding, walking, and quiet time—are maintained, so they feel calm amid the excitement.
If your cats are skittish around a large crowd, create a safe space in another room with their favorite blanket or bed, perhaps near a window where they can still enjoy watching the Christmas lights and the family’s activities from a distance.
Keep an eye on food: As tempting as it may be to share your Christmas dinner with your dogs and cats, always be mindful of what they can and cannot eat. Make sure they have their own treats and food separate from the human meal, as certain ingredients (like onions, chocolate, or certain nuts) can be harmful to pets.
Holiday Walks and Outdoor Time
Finally, after a cozy Christmas dinner, take your pets on a holiday walk. This is especially important for your dogs, who might be eager for some exercise after a meal and some time spent indoors. Take them for a winter stroll around the neighborhood, and if it’s snowing, they’ll likely enjoy running through the snow, or simply enjoy some quiet time outdoors. The walk can also be a fun time for your family to bond with your pets, and perhaps even take some photos of them enjoying the festive outdoor setting.
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