holiday Recipes
53 delicious holiday recipes from around the world
Bolo Rei (Portuguese King Cake)
A traditional Portuguese fruit cake, often enjoyed during the Christmas holidays. This enriched dough cake is studded with candied fruits and nuts, shaped into a crown, and symbolizes the riches of the Three Kings.
Buzhenina (Russian Roast Pork)
A classic Russian cold cut, Buzhenina is a flavorful roast pork loin studded with garlic and herbs, perfect for slicing and serving cold, especially during holidays. The long marination ensures deep flavor penetration.
Dammsugare (Swedish Punch Rolls)
Dammsugare, literally meaning 'vacuum cleaner' in Swedish, are classic, no-bake Swedish pastries. These delightful rolls feature a rich, moist cake and butter filling, flavored with arrack liqueur (punsch), all enrobed in vibrant green marzipan and finished with chocolate-dipped ends. Traditionally made to use up leftover sponge cake, they are a beloved treat for fika (coffee break).
Faworki (Angel Wings)
Faworki, also known as Angel Wings, are delicate, crispy, and airy fried pastries traditionally enjoyed in Poland, especially during Fat Thursday (Tłusty Czwartek). They are made from a simple dough, rolled incredibly thin, fried until golden, and then dusted generously with powdered sugar.
Faworki (Chruściki)
Faworki, also known as Chruściki or Polish angel wings, are delicate, crispy fried pastry ribbons, traditionally enjoyed during carnival season. They are incredibly light and airy, dusted generously with powdered sugar.
Greek Baklava
Authentic Greek baklava featuring delicate layers of buttered phyllo dough generously filled with a fragrant walnut and spice mixture, all bathed in a sweet honey-lemon syrup. A truly decadent dessert.
Insalata Russa
Insalata Russa, or Italian Russian Salad, is a beloved party staple featuring finely diced potatoes, carrots, peas, and pickles suspended in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It's a refreshing and satisfying cold salad perfect for gatherings and holidays.
Julskinka (Swedish Christmas Ham)
A traditional Swedish Christmas ham, this Julskinka features a succulent, slow-cooked ham coated in a flavorful mustard and breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. It's a stunning centerpiece for any holiday feast.
Kulich (Russian Easter Bread)
Kulich is a traditional tall, sweet, enriched yeast bread, essential for Orthodox Easter celebrations. It's often decorated with white icing and sprinkles.
Loukoumades (Greek Honey Puffs)
Loukoumades are delightful, bite-sized fried dough balls, a traditional Greek sweet, often referred to as 'honey tokens' or 'honey puffs'. They are known for their crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and are generously drenched in a warm honey syrup infused with cinnamon, then sprinkled with crushed walnuts. This ancient treat was even enjoyed by athletes in the original Olympic Games.
Makowiec (Polish Poppy Seed Roll)
A traditional Polish poppy seed roll, often made for Christmas. This dense and sweet cake features a rich poppy seed filling swirled within a soft yeast dough, creating a beautiful spiral pattern when sliced. It's a labor of love that's well worth the effort.
Pączki (Polish Filled Doughnuts)
Authentic Polish Pączki, a rich, yeasted doughnut traditionally enjoyed on Fat Thursday (Tłusty Czwartek) before Lent. This recipe features a classic rose jam filling, resulting in a decadent and slightly sweet treat.
Pryaniki (Russian Honey Spice Cookies)
Soft, fragrant Russian honey spice cookies, traditionally sweetened and flavored with a warm spice blend. These pryaniki are delightful served with tea.
Rotkohl (German Braised Red Cabbage)
A classic German side dish of red cabbage braised with apples, onions, and warm spices, offering a delightful sweet and sour flavor profile. It's a quintessential accompaniment to holiday meals, especially Christmas.
Smörgåsbord
A traditional Swedish buffet featuring a wide array of dishes, typically served during celebrations and holidays. It's designed for guests to enjoy multiple courses and selections.
Stollen
A traditional German Christmas bread, this rich fruit bread is studded with dried fruits and a core of sweet marzipan. A true Dresden specialty, it's perfect for festive occasions and can be made well in advance.
Struffoli
Neapolitan honey balls - tiny, deep-fried dough balls coated in warm honey and traditionally decorated with sprinkles and candied citrus. A beloved Christmas treat from Naples.
Tortellini in Brodo
Tortellini in broth - filled pasta swimming in rich capon broth. Bologna tradition.
Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescents)
Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth German vanilla crescent cookies, a beloved Christmas tradition. These buttery, almond-infused cookies are lightly sweetened and dusted with vanilla sugar.
Zeppole di San Giuseppe
Traditional Italian fried dough rings, often filled with pastry cream and topped with a cherry, especially popular for St. Joseph's Day (March 19th).
Doraji Namul (Seasoned Bellflower Root)
Doraji Namul is a classic Korean banchan (side dish) made from seasoned bellflower root. This preparation highlights the root's unique crunchy texture and slightly bitter, earthy flavor, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. The salting process is key to mellowing its bitterness.
Filipino Embutido
A classic Filipino festive meat roll, typically enjoyed during Christmas. This steamed pork loaf is studded with hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickles, and cheese, creating a colorful and flavorful cross-section when sliced. It is traditionally served cold.
Galbi Jjim (Korean Braised Short Ribs)
A classic Korean holiday dish, Galbi Jjim features incredibly tender beef short ribs braised in a rich, savory-sweet soy-based sauce with aromatics. The slow cooking process breaks down the meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Korean Mandu (Dumplings)
Authentic Korean dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, firm tofu, crisp vegetables, and chewy glass noodles. These versatile dumplings can be steamed to a tender perfection, boiled, or pan-fried for a delightful crispy exterior. A beloved dish often enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings.