Set to be a ‘no rules’ Christmas again, firm festive favourites crossed with global flavours are being showcased. With consumers continuing to feel the pinch, more affordable and ready-to-use options are being brought to the fore, which keep staff time down, whilst still delivering that little bit of magic.
It's been estimated that 75% of consumers are very value-led when dining out at Christmas – looking for options that are purse friendly whilst still bringing the ‘wow’ factor. More so than ever giving your guests an experience that they couldn’t get at home is top of Santa’s list.
Creed insights manager Anna Clapson said: “We are re-imagining the classics with varied global flavours and premium ingredients being combined. We’ll see more planet-friendly choices being prioritised, from seasonal and reusable ingredients to recyclable packaging.
“We can’t forget that consumers are still feeling the impact of the cost of living and need to keep this in mind with solutions that are cost effective, yet which still deliver an unforgettable experience. One thing is for certain, the joy of food and drink will be leading the way.”
Conviviality around the table
Communal, sharing dishes which bring a sense of conviviality are great for both small and large groups, allowing them to pick lots of smaller plates and snack-style dishes to pass around. Creed’s Kitchen ’72 pre-marinated chicken wings always hit the spot, and can be topped with herbs and sesame seeds for added theatre.
Bubble prawns and panko torpedo prawns – both still with tails on – bring an air of decadence particularly when paired with a Kitchen ’72 Indian Sweet Chilli dipping sauce on the side of a sizzling plate. Whilst mini masala empanadas, chicken tom kha kai croquettes, pesto cheese risotto balls and taquitos are a handful of fun to share around.
Not forgetting the vegans and vegetarians, mini vegan Kiev bites with a side of punchy garlic mayo are the perfect pairing, and beetroot falafel provide a hit of colour to the table. For those looking for the classic Christmas pastry-fix, mini tartlets and quiches which can simply be warmed through will hit the mark.
This year Creed is also championing premium soups for starters as they can be cost effective when bought-in, with the holiday magic coming from the toppings, many of which can use up food that might otherwise go to waste.
Think handmade deep-fried crusty sourdough croutons using up bread that’s past its best, a sprinkling of micro herbs, or perhaps even a lavish swirl of double cream to bring a feeling of luxury. Creed’s chefs have even been whipping up crunchy blackened leek crumb combining the discarded tougher parts of the vegetable and icing sugar – a stunning and food-waste friendly touch.
Classic dishes with reimagined twists
Keeping some main dishes classic, but with reimagined twists are bound to appeal to many diners looking for a sense of nostalgia. Creed’s in-house butchery can supply a range of meat for your diners, from classic English boneless turkey lobes for easy carving, through to the very best pigs in blankets and whole gammon joints. This year’s must-have for those that are looking to push the boat out is a whole rib of beef on the bone which has Red Tractor Assured status and is sourced from West Country farms.
Operators may also want to consider a fancy fish dish as a centre-piece this year, and the new boneless and skinless Korean sole fillets come with a spicy Korean crumb – ideal served on a bed of rice or noodles for a different take on a Christmas special.
Burgers loaded with festive toppings are hugely popular around the holiday period, and are a cost-effective option for diners. Double up on a pork sausage meat patty and a Red Tractor Assured 4oz steak burger before loading up with slices of brie and lashings of cranberry sauce for the ultimate festive stack.
With 67% of consumers now referring to themselves as ‘extremely sustainability conscious’2 and with 34% reducing their overall meat intake3, be sure to include some plant-based dishes that are far from second best.
Vegan sweet potato, chestnut and cranberry loaf is a great alternative to roasted meat on a traditional Christmas dinner plate. It comes with crunchy nuts and seeds for that extra bite. Spread a bright beetroot and horseradish hummus on the plate first for eye-catching presentation and finish with a smattering of herbs.
Showstopper sides
Sides, step up! No longer waiting in the wings and set to be as impressive as the main event, this is the opportunity to really add value and show your customers what your menus are made of, with very little additional cost.
Bejewel your British Brussel sprouts from Creed’s fresh produce range with cranberries and crushed nuts, or adding stilton to your cauliflower cheese for a festive take on the classic. Going above and beyond with these dishes will give your guests a meal to remember.
Decadent desserts and drinks
For those operators looking to serve up something sweet, there’s a fantastic range of Christmas desserts and cakes to enjoy. From individual Christmas pudding cheesecakes delivering nostalgia with a twist, through to a selection of festive pop dots which now come in Christmas tree and star shapes.
Set to be popular this year are easily-servable square sponge puddings, which each come with a sauce that can be heated – sticky toffee will satisfy those looking for something classic, whilst the lime and berry variety brings a more contemporary take on a sponge dessert.
Finally, forget not the tipples. Allow your customers to sip on something special such as warm raspberry kombucha served mulled with fresh berries and spices for a perfect non-alcoholic option, or a handmade black forest gâteau hot chocolate featuring dark hot chocolate powder and cherry syrup which can be spiked with your customers’ favourite Christmas spirit for an extra kick!
Creed’s full Christmas range will be available to order from late September 2024. For more festive dish ideas, download Creed’s Christmas Brochure by visiting here.