Food
7 delicious alternatives to roast turkey to try this Christmas
by Noemi Martini
Not sure about traditional roast turkey this year? Try something new with these alternative recipes for the big day – we’ve got meaty, veggie and vegan options to suit all guests.
1. Mulled wine glazed ham
Ham is a great choice to feed a crowd, and there’s usually plenty of leftovers – ideal for Boxing Day sandwiches. The mulled wine glaze in this recipe creates a beautiful sweet and crispy layer, which complements the tangy cranberry sauce. Serve with a dish of dauphinoise spuds.
Get the recipe for our mulled wine ham.
2. Jewelled-stuffed butternut squash
Having veggie guests over this year? This roasted squash makes an excellent meat-free centrepiece. Pomegranate matches the sweetness of the roasted squash flesh, and feta adds the perfect hint of saltiness. Enjoy as a main or serve a small portion on the side of a meaty roast.
Get the recipe for our jewelled-stuffed butternut squash.
3. Cashew and pistachio stuffing nut roast
This twist on a classic nut roast makes for a filling plant-based Christmas dinner that all your guests can enjoy. Serve with vegetarian gravy and sweet potatoes for a main, or if you are still having a traditional turkey, it makes a great stuffing.
Get the recipe for our cashew and pistachio stuffing nut roast.
4. Sticky citrus roast duck with crispy potatoes
The combo of citrus and Chinese 5-spice with a classic roast duck in this recipe will create a flavour and aroma perfect for the holidays. Serve with duck fat potatoes for an ultimate indulgent meal for two.
Get the recipe for our sticky citrus duck with crispy potatoes.
5. Porcini, bacon and sage roast rib of beef with port gravy
A beautiful rib of beef looks great on the table, and this showstopper will tick all the ‘big day’ boxes. Sage adds a touch of bittersweet aroma to the tender rib of beef and nutty creamy porcini stuffing.
Get the recipe for our porcini, bacon and sage rib of beef.
6. Spiced pomegranate and clementine slow-roast lamb leg
A roast leg of lamb might not be the most obvious choice for Christmas, but with some classic festive spices and flavours, it makes a delicious choice for non-turkey fans. Serve this slow-cooked version with a mint and coriander sauce and scatter with the pomegranate seeds.
Get the recipe for our spiced pomegranate and clementine slow-roast lamb leg.
7. Japanese seven-spice pork belly
This slow-cooked pork belly has a wonderful juicy centre and the perfect crackling, which would make any meat-lover happy on Christmas Day. There’s a delicious spicy pepper and citrus hint running through this recipe – and it’s served with a side of homemade cranberry and orange ketchup.
Get the recipe for our Japanese seven-spice pork belly.
