The first Noel Christmas cooking do’s and don’ts for a happy holiday

BY NOEL CUNNINGHAM

Christmas is fast approaching and without a doubt it’s one of the most anticipated days of the year. The day is all about a festive feast with loved ones. Whether you are hosting or visiting family, in order to have a great fun-filled day you will need some planning and preparation. Without proper planning in the kitchen this can spoil the entire day and mood. Here are your personal holiday kitchen tips to help you have a Happy Holiday.

Do’s

Create a grocery list
This will allow you to shop ahead of time and also give you an idea of how much you are spending. So, you’ll know beforehand the exact items you will need and what you don’t have, which prevents last-minute panicking.

Budget
Please make a budget. After the meal is over and your family has licked all its remnants off their fingers you don’t want to be confronted by high bills for the meal after you overspent on and ran up those cards. Once you plan ahead, you will be able to stay within your budget.

Ask for help
Don’t feel bad to ask your guests to bring a dish or to bring a bottle. This will save money and time. You can also delegate tasks in the kitchen to peel potatoes, mix drinks and/or make the salads.

Make a schedule
Think like a boss. This might seem like a waste of time to create, but in the end it will make your day lighter by helping you to be more organized. This will help you to know the dishes you’ll cook when and at what time. Assigning a cleaning crew is also a great idea..

Do a headcount
If you are hosting, be sure to know how many people you are catering for. Even though it’s a family affair, you can be creative and have them RSVP. Also, ask them to let you know ahead of time if they are bringing additional guests. You don’t want to run out of space or food.

Know your guests in advance
Get to know who you are cooking for. This will allow you to include their likes on the menu and avoid their dislikes and possible allergies. After all, you don’t want to be unprepared for that aunt who is allergic to gluten, and an uncle who is a vegan.

Don’ts

Don’t try a new recipe on the big day
It’s best to prepare a dish that you’ve mastered and are comfortable with, especially if you are taking it to a family member’s or friend’s house. You don’t want to surprise yourself or anyone with a bad-tasting or spoilt dish.

Don’t wait until the last minute to cook everything
Use your oven and stove top wisely. Bake your cakes in advance, and make sure you use precooked ham, or whip up the ham ahead of time. Get the vegetables and sauce ready a day or two before Christmas, that way you’ll be able to also enjoy yourself with your family.

Don’t overcomplicate things
Keep your menu simple and festive. There is no need for you to incorporate a plethora of flavours in one dish. And consider creating a theme for the dinner, this can be fun.

Don’t cram yourself
This doesn’t mean you should prepare less food, it simply implies that less is more. The fewer things you have to do, the better it will be for you. So, minimize your menu and save some of the energy and meal preparation for New Year’s Day.

Remember the best thing you can do to prepare for Christmas is just be happy.