It's nice to be where the spirit of a real Christian Christmas reigns. If you have such a desire, be sure to go to England (the country that is the birthplace of Christmas traditions) and get acquainted with the local rituals and customs, carefully preserved by the inhabitants of this kingdom for hundreds of years.
When you visit England, you will plunge into the atmosphere of a grandiose holiday!
Christmas traditions in England
Here they begin to prepare for the holiday in advance. The first preparatory step is fasting, which lasts four weeks and is called Advent. Since the beginning of Advent, the British have brought into their homes a special one made in the form of a wreath - “Advent Wreath”. If ordinary wreaths are hung on doors, then this one is solemnly placed on the table and 4 candles are attached to it, each of which burns on one of the Sundays of Advent.
In the days leading up to Christmas, people can be found on the streets of England singing traditional Christmas songs about the birth of Jesus and his life. The hymn singers also collect donations for the poor. Houses are decorated with evergreen holly branches, festive tinsel (by the way, they were invented by an Englishman) and colorful ribbons. The British were the first of all the inhabitants of Europe to introduce the tradition of decorating their homes with holly, which, according to popular beliefs, scares away evil spirits.
England looks extraordinarily fabulous at Christmas No less ancient is the custom of attaching a sprig of mistletoe above the door - a sacred plant of the ancient Druids, which is identified with eternal life and peace. According to tradition, if a girl stops under the mistletoe, the man has the right to kiss her. By the way, the custom of kissing under mistletoe originated in this country. Previously, a young man could claim as many kisses as there were berries on a branch.
Christmas night in this country is never dark - all the windows are illuminated by a huge number of candles. The origins of this tradition go back to the ritual of burning a special log at Christmas so that light would overcome darkness. This ritual appeared in England back in the days of the Vikings, who felled the largest tree on Christmas Day and left it to dry until the next holiday. Exactly a year later, the tree was cut down into logs and the hearth was heated, scaring away misfortune.
Before gathering at the festive table, residents of England go to church, and upon returning home they watch the Queen’s address on TV. After dinner the whole family plays charades or scrabble. On the second day of Christmas, the British remember the deeds of St. Stephen, and this day is called “Boxing day.” At this time, boxes for collecting donations are installed in churches. All decorations are removed on the twelfth day after the holiday. If you don’t do this, your luck will run out in the new year.
The British are the legislators of the tradition of Christmas decorations Father Christmas
Since October, little residents of the UK have been writing Christmas gift lists. By the way, gifts to household members should be approximately equal in value. They often distribute by lot. Interestingly, the tradition of placing gifts in stockings also comes from Victorian England. According to legend, when Santa Claus first entered the house through the chimney, a couple of gold coins fell from his pocket into a wet sock hanging over the fireplace to dry.
Since then, the British began hanging stockings in the hope of receiving gifts from Santa. But Santa Claus was not always a symbol of the holiday in England! Back in the 19th century, the traditional hero was "Father Christmas", dressed in a green suit to symbolize the turning of the sun into spring. The tradition of bringing gifts to children did not exist then either - the wizard simply went to English houses and said congratulatory words.
Red clothes appeared on this character due to advertising campaign, carried out by the Coca-Cola Corporation, and this happened only in the 90s of the last century. But now, on the night before Christmas, when children go to bed, they always leave a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa Claus, and carrots for Rudolph the Reindeer. If you leave the good wizard without a treat, then you may not receive any gifts.
The current image of Santa Claus was created by legends and Coca-Cola advertising. Christmas cards
It is to the British that we owe the custom of giving gifts on holidays. The first of them was printed in a London printing house in the mid-19th century. Over time, postcard printing has become an independent direction in printing. Printing houses carefully selected subjects and pictures for future postcards - initially they depicted branches of ivy, mistletoe and heather. The tradition took root so much that cards began to be sent by mail to relatives and friends who could not celebrate the holiday at home.
Traditional menu
The British believe that the Christmas table determines the well-being of the year, so they always prepare varied menu– baked pig's head, meatloaf and fish, they bake and decorate Christmas bread, part of which is usually distributed to the poor. There is always pudding on the table, which must be prepared in advance so that it can brew. For a long time, pudding was the most common dessert among all residents of the British Empire.
One of the main dishes on the English Christmas table is pudding. At the core of this dish there is oatmeal ("plum-porridge"), which was cooked in huge cauldrons a few days before Christmas. This porridge was prepared on strong meat broth. Bread crumbs, dried fruits, and nuts were gradually added to the brew, seasoned with honey and served hot to the festive table. Over time, this labor-intensive dish was replaced by “plum pudding,” which is made from bread crumbs with spices and fruit.
The tradition of making pudding with the whole family is still alive - even small children are given a large spoon to stir it, thereby joining the family holiday. Before cutting this traditional english dessert, it is soaked in rum and set on fire. Also a must-have dish on the Christmas table is baked turkey, served with potatoes. This is a relatively recent tradition - back in the 19th century, goose was featured on the festive table, as it was cheaper.
The British do not forget to treat themselves to roasted chestnuts, fried bacon, parsnips and Brussels sprouts served with cranberry sauce. They also make a Christmas cake, in which they hide a bean, a ring, a coin and a button. It is believed that a bean will bring good luck, a ring indicates an imminent marriage, a coin indicates that a person will become rich, but a button threatens financial troubles.
Whole roasted turkey is a traditional Christmas dish. Christmas tree
The Victorian era brought new Christmas traditions to England that involve custom. The elegant beauty was first installed in the Windsor residence in 1841. Around the same time, Christmas gifts began to be given to children and loved ones. Now the Norwegian royal family supplies spruce to the English royal court. The tradition began in 1946 as gratitude for the invaluable assistance to the Norwegians during the Second World War.
By the way, the capital’s main Christmas tree is decorated only with vertically arranged garlands, which look rather modest. Artists of singing groups perform near the Christmas tree throughout the festive evenings. They sing holiday hymns and thus contribute to the collection of donations for the poor.
In houses, Christmas trees are installed long before Christmas - from the beginning of December. Common colors for decoration are red, green and gold. In conservative England they do not like excessive diversity and highly value the classic English style. In addition to toys, treats for children prepared according to the recipe are hung on the tree.
A decorated Christmas tree is a traditional English attribute of Christmas. Holiday entertainment
The custom of staging pantomime scenes at Christmas is considered a purely English one. They are usually based on fairy tales that are familiar to each of us - for example, “Cinderella” or “Puss in Boots”. Despite all their primness, the British love to joke, so on Christmas Day, before starting the meal, each family member claps a special festive cracker, from which, in addition to confetti, a small present and a comic message fly out.
Traditional Christmas plant in countries Western Europe Poinsettia is considered an indoor flower with bright red leaves. Surprisingly, this tradition came to Foggy Albion from Mexico and quickly gained favor local residents. The tradition of Christmas jokes based on word plays is interesting. Children ask friends or parents funny holiday-themed questions, and they must answer them jokingly.
On the evening before Christmas - Christmas Eve - there is not a soul on the streets of English cities, and only the most popular tourist routes are filled with groups of visitors. Residents of Great Britain spend this evening at home, leaving home only to attend mass. The main service takes place in Westminster Abbey - so many people gather that there is nowhere for an apple to fall.
Christmas scenes are an integral part of British holidays At Christmas, tourists can watch numerous theatrical performances, which are staged on the streets or shown in theaters. Thematic programs will be held in all concert halls, and many hotels are announcing masquerade balls. The largest celebrations take place in London in Trafalgar Square. This is where the main state Christmas tree is installed and open-air concerts are held.
No less interesting events take place in the Tower, the Palace of Justice, Somerset House and Kew Gardens - here there are skating rinks illuminated by ancient lanterns and torches. The main Christmas market takes place in Leicester Square. Here you can not only taste local delicacies and buy gifts, but also take part in competitions and even win valuable prizes! English department stores offer massive discounts, so you can go shopping in the West End or Oxford Street.
Christmas discounts are sure to attract shopping lovers Shopping for Christmas
This separate species entertainment, since Christmas is one of the biggest holidays of the year, and, therefore, discounts during this period are great. During the pre-Christmas days, there is an unprecedented rush in shopping centers in England - everyone wants to buy gifts and take advantage of discounts. Each store has a variety of toys and decorations for sale, and after Christmas they sell in bulk for 50p a box.
There is also excitement at flea markets, for example, on Petticoat Lane - even car traffic stops here, it is still impossible to drive among the crowds of sellers and buyers. Here you can buy gifts from all over the world - representatives of China, India, Malaysia and Turkey exhibit their assortment. Greenwich Market also attracts tourists and local residents - here you will be offered clothes with hand embroidery, antique home decoration and curiosities from all over the world.
England has many stunning architectural landmarks Where else to go in England for Christmas?
- The holiday can be celebrated not only in London. Visit medieval York - one of the most beautiful English cities, famous for its Minster Cathedral.
- A rich excursion program awaits you in ancient Chester and in the homeland of the national hero Robin Hood - in Nottingham.
- Travel to Durham, which has a unique Norman cathedral that looks more like an ancient rock cliff.
- Leicester is not uninteresting to visit - the most Old city England.
- The medieval town of Shrewsbury is famous for its beautiful Romanesque architecture, the appearance of which has not changed at all over the past centuries.
- The holiday can be celebrated in Derby, located on the banks of the River Derwent. This city is the birthplace of the industrial revolution - the first manufactories and factories for the production of silk fabrics, porcelain products and even railways arose here.
Spending Christmas outside of your family is considered almost a crime in the UK. Main holiday The British celebrate their countries at home: with a Christmas tree, gifts, watching their favorite films and, of course, Christmas dinner. The portal "ZagraNitsa" tells what dishes should be on the table of every self-respecting Englishwoman and how to prepare them
Already a month before Christmas, the whole of Great Britain lives only with this event: people buy gifts, prepare greeting cards, choose Christmas tree decorations and count down the days remaining until the holiday. On the eve of Christmas, even women who usually do not cook suddenly become visitors to culinary sites, looking for something to surprise and delight their family at Christmas dinner.
Photo: shutterstock However, it’s not at all difficult to name the main dishes that will definitely be on every table on Christmas Eve. The British are very sensitive to their traditions (including culinary ones) and honor them with pleasure.
Roast goose
The main dish of the holiday is a bird baked in the oven. The British traditionally have two favorites for this honorable role: turkey or goose. The filling is usually potatoes, onions, chickpeas, sausage, apples, lemons, etc. We suggest cooking goose with potatoes and apples.
Ingredients:
- Goose – 2-3 kg
- Potatoes – 1 kg
- Apples (small) – 5-6 pieces
- Onion – 1 pc.
- Lemon – 1 pc.
- Vinegar
- Spices (salt, pepper, cumin, rosemary, thyme and other seasonings to taste)
First of all, you need to gut the goose, wash it thoroughly, rub it outside and inside with salt and coat it with vinegar. Next, rub the bird with a mixture of spices and leave to marinate. For an ideal result, the goose should be marinated for 5-6 hours, but if time is pressing, 30-40 minutes is enough.
Stuff the goose with sliced lemon and whole apples. The hole should be tied with thick threads. Stuffed goose with chopped potatoes and onions is placed in a sleeve and baked in a preheated oven for 2-2.5 hours at 150 degrees. If you want the bird to be browned and coated appetizing crust, 15-20 minutes before readiness, you should cut the sleeve.
Photo: shutterstock We place the finished bird on a dish, covering it with potatoes, and place it in a place of honor - in the center of the table.
Pudding
One of the symbols of British cuisine is pudding. There are so many variations and varieties of this dessert that there is enough for a whole book, but we offer one of the simplest and fastest ways to prepare chocolate pudding.
Ingredients:
- Chicken eggs – 3 pcs.
- Butter – 100 g
- Flour – 3/4 cup
- Sugar – 2/3 cup
- Ground almonds – 1/4 cup
- Cocoa powder – 2 tablespoons
- Baking powder – 2 teaspoons
First, beat the eggs with sugar until fluffy, then add pre-sifted flour with baking powder and cocoa powder. Then add the melted butter and almonds and thoroughly beat the whole mass again until fluffy.
The resulting dough is laid out in a suitable form, covered and cooked in the microwave for 5-6 minutes (at high power).
For cooking chocolate sauce you will need 50 grams of butter, which is melted with chocolate (125 grams). Add 2-3 tablespoons to the mixture heavy cream, it all gets mixed up.
Photo: shutterstock The finished pudding is taken out of the microwave and poured over with chocolate sauce.
eggnog
Eggnog, an exotic egg cocktail for us, is a frequent guest on the British holiday table, especially at Christmas. Preparing it is not at all difficult, but the same cannot be said about drinking it: out of habit, not everyone will like such a drink. We offer an alcoholic version of the cocktail, ideal for a holiday.
Ingredients:
- Egg – 1 pc.
- Milk – 100 ml
- Cognac – 50 ml
- Sugar syrup – 2 tsp.
- Nutmeg - to taste
First you need to separate the yolk from the white. In a mixer, beat the yolk and sugar syrup, then chilled milk and cognac are added here. The mixture is poured into a glass half filled with crushed ice. Add the whipped egg white and sprinkle the drink with nutmeg to taste.
Photo: shutterstock 4 Christmas cookies
The times when housewives competed with their baked goods are long gone, but even today homemade cookies considered a traditional attribute of Christmas. Very simple and quick way please your family with a delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
- Wheat flour - 200 g
- Chicken egg - 1 pc.
- Butter - 100 g
- Sugar - 150 g
- Salt - a pinch
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Powdered sugar - 250 g
Grind half the butter with sugar and add the second half of the butter, melted in the microwave. An egg, baking powder, salt and sifted flour are added to the resulting mass. The dough is thoroughly kneaded and takes 30-40 minutes.
The dough needs to be rolled out to a thickness of 5-7 millimeters, then the future cookies should be cut out of it using molds. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment and greased with oil. To prevent the cookies from swelling, you can lightly prick them with a fork.
Photo: shutterstock Cookies are baked in the oven at 250 degrees for 6-7 minutes. Next, the baked goods can be glazed and decorated. chocolate chips or various sprinkles.
Sausages with cranberries
Finally, we offer a simple, but very interesting recipe. Cranberry sauce can make even the most boring dish special and unusual, including fried sausages. If there are a lot of people coming to the Christmas table unexpected guests, "sticky cranberry sausages" - perfect option a tasty treat in a hurry.
Ingredients:
- Red onion – 2 pcs.
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Small sausages (cocktail) – 400 g
- Cranberry jelly (you can use jam) – 1 tablespoon
- Cranberries (can be frozen) – 200 g
- Mandarin (you only need the peel) – 1 pc.
Chopped onions are fried in olive oil 5 minutes, then add to the pan raw sausages. When the sausages turn brown, add cranberries and jelly (or jam). The resulting mass is fried over low heat for 20 minutes until caramelized. Then the tangerine zest is grated on top. That's all. Sticky, tasty and unusual dish can be served.
Photo: shutterstock You can find out more about UK Christmas traditions in our previous article.
Probably each of us, from school English lessons, knows no less (if not more) about British Christmas traditions than even about our own. About decorating the Christmas tree, about the so-called Boxing-day, about a big family dinner, about a big roast turkey, Christmas pudding, pies called mince pies... Do you know how exactly these dishes appeared? When did turkey win the hearts of the British? Or why there is no meat in mince pies (although, judging by the name, English speakers should understand me)? I suggest small excursion into history.
Roast turkey appeared on English Christmas tables relatively recently. The first birds were brought from North America during Tudor times and immediately became a favorite at grand feasts all year round. But they were especially good in winter. Roasting required a lot of effort, equipment and people, so having baked meat on the table was a sign of prosperity. An alternative to turkey on the tables of the rich was peacock or swan, which were eaten at Christmas until the 19th century. For people with less income or fewer friends the best option there was a goose.
In the Victorian era, working-class people often joined what was known as a “goose club,” saving money each month to buy a bird for Christmas. But for a real British Christmas, there had to be beef on the table, along with poultry. And even after cutting the bird or big piece meat at the common table went out of fashion, many families, including the family of Queen Victoria, had a huge piece of beef in stock.
Christmas pudding, first named as such in 1845, has roots in Roman and medieval stews. By the Tudor period, stews of meat and root vegetables were often served, to which breadcrumbs were added for thickness and lots of spices. At that time, spices were very expensive, so they were associated with the holiday and therefore with Christmas.
In the 18th century, plum soup intervened in the course of history, which was thickened, lard and sugar were added, the amount of meat was reduced and they began to cook in fabric bags. Such puddings appeared around the 17th century and over the next 200 years became an integral and popular part of British cuisine. Plum pudding (this is the name Christmas pudding was known by) for a long time) could be prepared months in advance, making it a very practical dish.
Sweet Christmas pies (mince meat) originate from the Middle Ages. They were huge open pies with meat (usually lamb), dried fruits, lard, spices and sugar. They cost a fortune, but kept well and made ideal gifts. By the 18th century, meat began to slowly disappear from the recipe, and other recipes came in its place, with lemon or apple. Each family had its own recipe, and meat periodically appeared in pies until it completely disappeared by the 20th century.
Almost no holiday, including Christmas, is complete without drinks. Even in the 16th century, people complained that the holiday was just an excuse to eat and drink a lot. For centuries, most drinks (even everyday drinks) were alcoholic to some degree because water was associated with poverty. On holidays, preference was given to strong ales and wines, punch and mulled wine, loved by both Georgians and Victorians. In Dickens's A Christmas Carol, the Cratchit family drinks gin punch made with spices. hot water, lemon and ginger wine.
Until the mid-Victorian period, Christmas dinner was served à la Française (in French). Up to 3 dishes were served, and for each serving there were from 5 to 10 dishes. It is interesting that beef and pudding were the main courses, because it was unwise to serve a rich pudding at the end of the meal.
Advent was once a time of fasting and preparation for the celebration of Christmas. In the Middle Ages, the 12 days of Christmas came after 24 days of abstinence - the exact opposite of modern times, where Christmas comes when the English are already fed up with mince pies.
Until recently, I considered the British to be very serious and prim people. They seem like this to many not only after watching feature films. For example, I am still surprised by the presence of a queen in England as the head of state. Simply, a fairy tale in reality! To be honest, I always wanted to get to know the inhabitants of Foggy Albion better. How they live, how they rejoice, celebrate holidays and, finally, what they eat. If you haven't visited the country at Christmas and haven't tried traditional Christmas dishes in England, be sure to do so. Amazing England, where a real fairy tale lives, will unfold before you.
What traditional Christmas dishes are popular in England?
Christmas in this country - family celebration, obligatory and serious, but at the same time he is so warm, cheerful, perky and very beautiful. For example, the British decorate their house for Christmas in a special way: mistletoe branches, the famous Christmas stocking, a Christmas wreath " Advent Wreath", Advent calendars. You can still kiss any girl standing under a sprig of mistletoe (so much for the prim English). What about the Christmas pantomimes and songs performed by residents when they gather in groups? But this is not some quiet church singing, but funny scenes and songs on the theme of Christmas or famous fairy tales, but with a deep allegorical meaning. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th. The meal begins after the official congratulations of the Queen at 3 pm. In general, the whole country is simply transforming!
The most amazing Christmas dish I tried in England was pudding. The dish is unusual not only when served, but also in preparation. Outwardly it looks like a dark cupcake - Brown, but is prepared in a “water bath”. The abundance of ingredients used in the preparation of pudding gives it more than just unusual taste, but such, if I may say so, “multi-taste”. Before serving, pour rum over it and set it on fire. When eating the pudding, you first feel the taste of rum with spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice), then the taste of nuts, raisins, candied fruits, prunes, and honey is added. Delicious.
This unusual pudding is stored for a long time, infuses for a long time before consumption, is very satisfying and leaves a long aftertaste. I don’t think it’s possible to prepare such a masterpiece on your own, because you learn to cook this dish from childhood, participating in its preparation together with adults. Wishes are made over the pudding, which adds extra charm to the holiday.
Traditional Christmas dishes in England include roast turkey with potatoes and gooseberry sauce, oxtails, sweet Christmas pie, oysters in sauce with red caviar, Brussels sprouts with bacon and cheese, sausages in bacon with cranberry sauce, chicken breasts .
Turkey with potatoes – spectacular dish, which is served surrounded by baked potatoes. To my surprise, the turkey was tasty and juicy. I've always found turkey meat to be a bit dry. If you think like me, go to England and find out otherwise. Live oysters with red caviar are a real gourmet dish. Red caviar is a world-famous delicacy, and oysters are healthy seafood, also a delicacy. The dish is light, you can eat a lot, but live oysters still don’t squeak. Brussels sprouts with bacon - hearty dish and, although I don’t like cabbage, I ate everything that was served.
In England, at Christmas you can have a real fabulous holiday not only for the soul, but also for the stomach. By the way, at Christmas the British prefer to forget about all sorts of diets and restrictions. But January 26 is also a day off, which is usually spent at home, relaxing in front of the TV.
Finally, we offer you a wonderful video recipe for Christmas turkey:
Traditional Christmas dishes in England are roast turkey and potatoes. sweet pie mince pies, traditional Christmas pudding and Christmas fruit pie(Christmas cake), Yule Log (Christmas log).
Picture 12 from the presentation “Christmas in England”
Dimensions: 400 x 400 pixels, format: jpg. To download a free picture for a holiday lesson, right-click on the image and click “Save image as...”. To display pictures in the lesson, you can also download the entire presentation “Christmas in England.pptx” with all the pictures in a zip archive for free. The archive size is 2563 KB.
« New Year in England" - And they put hay in the shoes - a treat for the donkey. How do children receive gifts? The most famous clock in England is Big Ben. Fairy tale characters. In England, a bell announces the arrival of the New Year. New Year in England - Happy New Year! The first postcard was sent in 1843! Treats on the table in England. Decoration for the New Year.
“New Year in England” - In addition to the decorated Christmas tree, there must be sprigs of mistletoe in the room. The English New Year begins with decorating the house. The streets are filled with people having fun! In England, a bell announces the arrival of the New Year. On New Year's Day, theaters stage performances based on old English fairy tales for children.
“The Cathedrals of London” - The Cathedral Organ (1694) by Master Willis is considered the best in England. Only at the beginning of the 7th century the city began to revive. The Houses of Parliament. The triple dome of the cathedral (height 120m) is an integral part of the London skyline. Great Britain is located to the north-west of the continent of Europe. At the main entrance there is a monument to Queen Anne.
“Country England” - Sights of London. Agriculture provides 3/4 of the country's food needs. The length of railways is 37.8 thousand km, roads - 358 thousand km. The British prefer tea. IN educational institutions and in institutions, the British love to sit on tables. The British Museum does not exhibit paintings.
"Revolution in England" - The meaning of revolution. Repetition of what has been covered (paragraph 1 of chapters 15-16 “Absolutism”). Map of England during the Revolution. Lesson objectives. The topic of the lesson is “The English Revolution 1640-1660.” Reinforcing the material covered. Lesson plan Review of what has been covered. Pride purge is... The study of the causes, progress, stages and results of the revolution.
"The History of England" - George Orwell. In 1922, six Irish provinces seceded to form the independent state of Ireland.
What dishes does a traditional Christmas lunch in England consist of?
A group of history researchers presents the results of their work on the topic: “History of England.” We were looking for an answer to the following problematic question: We studied the CHRONOLOGY OF THE RULERS OF THE KINGDOM OF ENGLAND.
Christmas
11 presentations about Christmas
| A significant part of the Christmas holiday is ritual food - dinner on Christmas Eve and lunch on the first day of Christmas. The English and Scottish nobility, descended from the Scandinavians or Normans, had a traditional Christmas dish throughout the Middle Ages. boar's head
. However, among the Celtic peoples this dish never appeared on holiday tables. Perhaps the reason for this was the ban on eating pork that existed in ancient times among the Celts. This prohibition continued for a long time in some remote corners of the Highlands. In Scotland, Ireland and Wales, a piece of fried beef or goat meat - Yule bull or Yule goat. But gradually traditional meat dish for Christmas it became fried (in Ireland, Wales) or smoked (in Scotland) goose. It has remained a staple Christmas dish to this day in Wales and Scotland (Highland). In England since the 18th century. took his place roasted or stuffed turkey. |
Christmas menu in England
Drinks and foods made from grains had ritual significance. In Aberdeenshire and north-east Scotland it was customary to place a large cup of a special Christmas drink called sowans on the table on Christmas Eve. It was prepared from fermented barley grain, with the addition of honey and cream. The drink was poured into small wooden cups, at the bottom of which some object was placed: if the drinker saw a ring at the bottom, it meant a wedding, a coin meant wealth, a button meant celibacy, etc.
This drink is still prepared today by the Highlanders. The Scots of Lowland do not know such a drink, and for dinner on Christmas Eve they prepare special recipe Christmas soup. The broth for it is made from the meat of a bull killed on St. Valentine's Day. Martina.
For many centuries, all the inhabitants of the British Isles had a special food at Christmas. oatmeal plum-porridge, cooked in meat broth, bread crumbs, raisins, almonds, prunes and honey were also added to it and served very hot. During the 18th century. Plum-porridge is gradually being replaced by plum-pudding, and by the middle of the 19th century. the latter becomes the most important dish of the Christmas table. Plum pudding is made from bread crumbs with the addition of various spices and fruits; before serving, it is doused with rum and lit. It is still a custom to hide small silver coins and decorations in the Christmas pudding “for good luck.”
In the past, the Scots, Irish and Welsh had a custom of baking for Christmas. special bread. It was supposed to be baked only on Christmas Eve, between sunset and sunrise. Christmas bread was a large round cake on which a cross was cut out with a knife before baking. They also baked Christmas oatcakes - round, with jagged edges and a hole in the middle; judging by their shape, they were supposed to symbolize the sun. In the Highlands it was customary to invite every passer-by to the house for Christmas. The guest was offered a piece of this flatbread with cheese and a sip of alcohol.
Christmas pudding
A traditional Christmas dessert for many centuries was a special oatmeal called plum-porridge. Just like in England, but without oatmeal! It was boiled in meat broth and all sorts of things were added there - almonds, prunes and honey, raisins, as well as bread crumbs. Since the 18th century, plum-pudding has replaced plum-porridge. And now it is the main dish of the Christmas table in the UK.
Once upon a time this ritual dish It was prepared from 13 ingredients that symbolized Christ and his disciples, and the dough had to be stirred strictly from east to west - in the direction in which the Magi came to the baby Jesus. According to English tradition, each family member must take part in stirring the pudding. At this time, you can make a wish - and it will certainly come true. Coins and small decorations are placed in the pudding “for good luck.” A horseshoe will be for good luck, a ring will be for a wedding. Before serving the pudding, it should be doused with brandy and set on fire.
Christmas in England: a magical transformation
The pudding is solemnly brought into a dark room - this is a real spectacle, and the fire will scare away evil spirits!
Another dish that I would like to focus on is mins pai. At first it was a special form of pastry with meat filling and spices, then they began to add dried fruits, and later fruit fillings and completely replaced meat. Buy the so-called “ berry baskets", they will completely give you an idea of the minus shares both in form and content. Fillings in English versions can vary - jam, nuts, dried fruits, the mince pie itself can be closed or open on top, with characteristic dough decorations in the form of stars or angels, and the British add cinnamon from the heart.
In the 17th century, the celebration of Christmas, and with it Christmas feasts, were prohibited by a decree of the strict Puritan Oliver Cromwell. Pudding in those days could land you in jail, and, by the way, this order has not yet been canceled. Fortunately, there is another order of parliament, dating back to the 19th century, prohibiting the imprisonment of anyone except serious criminals at Christmas. So you can eat your pudding without fear.
Plum pudding (recipe)
3\4 cups sifted flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
200 grams of beef fat ( traditional recipe) or coconut oil(vegetarian substitute) or butter
1 heaping cup brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup cider or apple juice
2 eggs
1 cup light raisins, 1.5 cups small black raisins (cinnamon)
2 cups chopped candied fruits
1/2 cup chopped almonds or almond flakes
1/4 cup flour
1 cup day old bread crumbs
Mix the first 5 ingredients.
Mix fat, sugar, milk and cider separately, add eggs. Mix raisins and almonds with 1/4 cup flour. Add the crumbs and remaining mixture to the fat and liquid mixture and mix well.
Place in a greased and floured pan. If not special form For pudding, you can use a pan with fairly high sides. Cover with two layers of oiled parchment and tie it tightly with string around the edges. When choosing a mold or pan, keep in mind that the pudding will still rise.
Take a large saucepan or cauldron with a well-closing lid. Place an inverted saucer or plate on the bottom. Place the mold there and pour boiling water into a large saucepan so that it reaches the middle of the mold. Cover with a lid and simmer for 2 and a half hours.
Serve hot. Pour brandy over it, set it on fire and bring it into the room with the lights off. Serve black Ahmad Tea teas with the pudding.
Violet
Christmas in Great Britain is celebrated on December 25th. It is celebrated among the closest people.
The spirit of British Christmas can be fully felt in London. On the eve of the holiday, near the main Christmas tree of the country in Trafalgar Square, charitable organizations organize performances for adults and children about the birth and life of Jesus Christ. Musical groups and choirs perform Christmas carols. Leicester Square hosts the country's main fair, where you can buy souvenirs, gifts, decorations and enjoy festive sweets.
Traditions and rituals
The pre-Christmas period in the country opens with Advent, which begins four weeks before the holiday. On Advent Sundays, parishioners attend church services dedicated to gospel readings.
On Christmas Eve (December 24), residents of Great Britain go to church, and in the evening they gather at the festive table with close relatives.
In ancient times, the English had a tradition of making and burning a Christmas log. They believed that such a ritual helped to leave all the troubles and problems in the old year. The tradition has changed. Nowadays, instead of logs, the British light thick Christmas candles.
The British devote December 25 to relaxation and communication with loved ones. At Christmas they await the Queen's address, which is broadcast on national television.
Christmas decorations
The spirit of Christmas begins to be felt in the UK as early as November. Residents of the United Kingdom install Christmas trees in their homes, which they decorate with toys, balls, tinsel, and garlands. The main attributes are a Christmas star and an angel. You can often see sweets, tangerines, and candies on Christmas trees. The British hang a wreath of pine branches on the door, which they decorate with ribbons, berries, and nuts. Housewives of some villages pay special attention to decorating Christmas candles, which they make from colored paper, foil, gold and silver threads.
Residents of Great Britain adhere to the old tradition and decorate their homes with evergreen branches of holly, ivy, and mistletoe. They hang them at their front doors. The British believe that this decoration will protect their home from evil spirits. Young couples kiss under a sprig of mistletoe. They believe that such a ritual will bring strong relationships and mutual understanding. The tradition of decorating the house with a poinsettia flower came from Mexico. The red bracts of this plant symbolize the Star of Bethlehem.
Christmas trees and decorations of biblical scenes of the birth and life of Jesus Christ are installed in city squares.
There is a tradition among the British that the decorations should be removed on the 12th day after Christmas, otherwise the year will be unlucky.
Festive table
British housewives believe in the superstition that whatever the table will be like at Christmas, the whole thing will be like that. next year. Main course festive table- baked stuffed turkey or goose. In some areas of Scotland and Ireland this role is performed fried goat meat or beef, popularly called the Christmas goat or Christmas bull.
The custom of baking traditional bread has been preserved, which is a round flat cake decorated with patterns in the form of crosses. Some housewives perform comic fortune telling by baking a bean grain, a ring, a coin, or a button in Christmas bread. At the festive dinner it is ceremonially cut and shared among family members. A bob portends happiness, a button - failure, a coin - wealth, a ring - a wedding. One piece of bread is left for the poor and taken to church the next day.
There are also traditional English dishes on the table: baked potato with bacon, roasted chestnuts, stewed Brussels sprouts with parsnips.
A popular Christmas dessert is plum pudding (plum porridge). Each housewife has her own recipe for making holiday pudding. The most common is oatmeal, cooked in meat broth, with the addition of bread crumbs, raisins, prunes, honey and almonds. Before serving, the pudding is topped with yogurt or rum and then set on fire.
Present
Christmas cards are popular in the UK. Residents of the country send them to large quantities family, friends, acquaintances.
British adults are traditionally presented with gifts by a younger member of the family before the festive dinner.
Children receive gifts from Santa Claus. They write letters of wishes to him and burn them. This is how the messages must reach the North Pole. Santa Claus puts gifts in socks, which children hang in front of their beds on the eve of the holiday. In gratitude, girls and boys leave their favorite character a glass of brandy and a piece of meat pie.
Little residents of the country begin to receive Christmas gifts from the first week of Advent. Parents prepare four envelopes for their children, in which they hide small gifts (sweets). Each week of Advent they open one envelope.
history of the holiday
The history of celebrating Christmas in Great Britain goes back to antiquity. In the Middle Ages, a tradition arose of organizing theatrical performances - “mysteries”. Participants in the mysteries put on masks and presented excerpts from biblical scenes to the audience.
In the villages of Scotland, people gathered on the lawns, played games and had fun to the music of bagpipes.
In 1644, the Protestant Church banned the celebration of Christmas throughout the country.
Christmas in England
The religious traditions of the holiday have lost their role. The main celebration was the New Year. At the end of the 17th century, Christmas traditions began to be revived. By the 20th century, Christmas had become a purely family holiday.
The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree dates back to 1841, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert installed a beautiful conifer for their children at Windsor Castle. The British liked this tradition. It quickly spread throughout the United Kingdom.
Cities and resorts
In winter, London has a magical holiday atmosphere. Christmas markets and street performances attract the attention of citizens and tourists. The city has open-air skating rinks where adults and children can have an active and fun time. After Christmas, huge sales start in shopping centers that attract shoppers.
North Yorkshire offers spectacular scenery from the North York Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Dales. Whitby Abbey and the city of York are famous for their ancient architecture and majestic Gothic cathedrals.
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