Christmas dinner is one of the most anticipated meals of the year, but it can also be one of the most stressful. From the turkey to the trimmings, getting everything perfect can feel like an overwhelming task. At The London Kitchen, we know that preparation is key to a smooth and enjoyable day for both the cook and their guests.
Here are some professional tips and tricks to help you plan ahead, save time, and deliver a stress-free Christmas feast.
1. Prep in Advance: Save Yourself the Stress
The key to a successful Christmas dinner lies in preparation. Tackling as much as possible ahead of time will leave you with more room to breathe (and enjoy a glass of wine) on the big day. Here’s what you can do in advance:
Turkey Brine for Succulent Meat
Brining your turkey will keep the meat juicy and flavourful. This can be done the night before roasting for maximum effect.
How to Brine a Turkey:
- Fill a large pot or container with 1.5 litres cold water.
- Heat another 1.5 litres water with the following:
- 200g coarse sea salt
- 100g light brown soft sugar
- 2 bay leaves
- A handful of thyme sprigs
- 10 peppercorns
- Zest of 1 orange (pared into strips)
- 2 tbsp toasted coriander seeds
- Dissolve the salt and sugar, then pour into the container. Let it cool completely.
- Submerge the turkey (ensuring it’s fully covered) and leave to brine for 1 hour per 500g.
- Remove the turkey, pat dry, and roast.
Prepare Vegetables in Advance
- Potatoes and Parsnips: Cut, parboil, and (for parsnips) marinate ahead of time. They’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven on the day.
- Braised Red Cabbage: This can be made up to a week in advance. Sugar and white wine vinegar act as natural preservatives, ensuring the dish stays fresh.
- Stuffing: Ball up your stuffing mixture and have it oven-ready.
2. Side Dishes: Simplify Your Day
Many classic Christmas sides can be prepped days in advance, cutting down on last-minute kitchen chaos:
- Cauliflower Cheese: Assemble fully, ready to go in the oven.
- Gravy: Make in advance and store in the fridge for up to three days.
- Pigs in Blankets: Cook them partially (without browning) and finish them off on the day.
3. Yorkshire Pudding Tips
Yorkshire puddings are best made fresh, but they can be prepped in the morning and flashed in the oven before serving. This approach ensures they rise perfectly while avoiding oven space issues during the main cooking.
Pro Tip: Avoid opening the oven door while your Yorkies are cooking—it can prevent them from rising!
4. Timing and Organisation
A small oven can make Christmas dinner challenging, especially when juggling multiple dishes. Having a clear timeline and knowing what goes where can make all the difference. For example:
- Use a warming drawer or insulated box to keep dishes hot while others cook.
- Plan oven space strategically—roast potatoes and turkey can often share space, while side dishes like cauliflower cheese go in after the turkey rests.
5. General Planning Tips
- Make a checklist for the week leading up to Christmas.
- Delegate smaller tasks, such as peeling vegetables or setting the table, to family members or guests.
- Keep serving dishes and utensils organised in advance to avoid a last-minute scramble.
A Smooth Christmas Day for the Cook
By planning and preparing in advance, you can turn a potentially stressful day into an enjoyable one. At The London Kitchen, we know that hosting is as much about the experience as it is the food. With these tips, you’ll have time to enjoy the company of your loved ones—and maybe even a second helping of dessert!
Happy holidays from all of us at The London Kitchen!
