From tradition to the table: 7 typical Christmas and New Year's dishes in Chile

During this time of the year, Chilean gastronomy is characterized by colonization and cultural exchange that has happened over the years, which is why you will find a lot of variety among the most popular choices among locals.

1. Roast turkey

If you want to celebrate these holidays like a Chilean family, you must have a roast turkey on your table. Although it is a tradition acquired from abroad, nowadays, it is the star of the banquets during these months. The most traditional way to eat it is to season it with garlic, butter, and pepper, and those looking for a more reimagined proposal stuff it with a sweet preparation of apple, plum, spices, and onion, and then marinate it with orange juice, honey, and seasonings. The most commonly used side dishes are apple puree, duchess potatoes, or fresh salads.

2. German roast & lamb on a stick 

The German barbecue is another favorite of Chileans to celebrate the end of the year. It is usually prepared with ground meat and stuffed with vegetables such as celery, pumpkin, and peppers. It is seasoned with mustard and fine herbs. One of the fundamental ingredients is boiled eggs, on which the rolling is made. 

Another roast meat alternative is a lamb on a stick (al palo), which reflects the influence of the countryside in Chilean cuisine. This slow and careful preparation requires several hours to obtain juicy meat full of flavor. This dish is especially loved in the south of the country. 

3. Poultry Casserole: A dish for Christmas dinner

Due to the weather, in Chile, it is very common to find cold and light dishes on Christmas tables. Poultry casserole (cazuela), a chicken soup with potatoes, squash, corn, and rice, is a very reliable and traditional option. It is highly appreciated for its simplicity and the feeling of home it conveys, usually transmitting and repeating special recipes from mothers and grandmothers that have been consolidated and created throughout the generations.

4. Salads

Salads are the quintessential complement on Chilean tables for this time of year. The most popular is mayonnaise: boiled potatoes, chopped and seasoned with mayonnaise, mustard, cilantro, and finely chopped onion. The queen avocado is also one of the most chosen: avocados cut in half and stuffed with a salad of chicken breast, bell pepper, and dressings. Other widely consumed salads are:

• The Chilean Salad: tomatoes, onion and cilantro.
• Celery Salad, with avocado and walnuts.

5. Desserts

1. Easter bread: This dish is one of the iconic symbols of celebrating Christmas or New Year in Chile. It consists of a moist and spongy bread, made with ginger and other spices. It usually contains candied fruits, nuts, cinnamon, cloves, and liquor. Whether homemade or bought at a bakery, which all offer it for this time of year, it is a must-try dish to experience the holidays like a local. It is also a typical gift between family and friends, so keep it in mind to give to your new friends!
2. Yule log: This dessert has gained popularity in recent years. Of French origin, it consists of a sponge cake filled with cream or jam and decorated as if it were a tree trunk, to enhance the Christmas spirit.
3. Roasted milk: It is similar to a flan, which is made with egg, sugar, and milk. It is consumed cold, dipped in caramel, and can be accompanied with ice cream. 

Bonus: drinks 

1. Monkey Cola: It has been the quintessential Chilean Christmas dinner drink since its creation in the 20th century. It has milk and pisco. It is usually served to toast and also to accompany meals. Its preparation is simple and, although each family has its recipe, it generally includes brandy, coffee, sugar, milk, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
2. Mote with huesillos: Mote con huesillos is a traditional Chilean non-alcoholic drink, mainly from the central area of ​​the country, which contains caramelized peach juice, wheat mote, and dehydrated peaches (huesillos).

To sum up

The Christmas and New Year festivities are always a mix of local traditions and modern accessories that new generations add to their tastes, preferences, and choices. Without a doubt, spending a part of this style away from home can be hard, but the experience becomes much richer and more pleasant if we have the possibility of enjoying it just as the locals do. 

As the saying goes “When in Rome, do as in Rome”: choose a private accommodation, with a kitchen and all the amenities to prepare your Christmas and New Year's celebrations in the Chilean style: with lots of food, flavor, and good company. 

Check out Zip Housing options and start planning your Christmas Holidays right now!