All over the world, there are various Yuletide traditions that make each country or city unique. One of the most essential elements during Christmas is food. No celebration would be complete without long dinner tables lined up with the most festive treats and meals.
In Europe, each country or city never runs out of unique Christmas food traditions that will make just about anyone hungry. Here are some of them.
1. Germany: Drinking Glühwein
In Germany, it is absolutely essential to have a very fine drink best enjoyed during Christmas. The country has its own mulled spice wine called Glühwein and this beverage is found all over Christmas markets in the country.
The wine is usually prepared with lemon, cinnamon and cloves. If one doesn't have enough time to prepare it, a trip to the market to get some is the best option.
2. France: Celebrating Le Reveillon
Noel is what the French know of as Christmas and would start come the 6th of December. The people of France take their festivities this time of year very seriously, with their own tradition of a late supper called Le Reveillon done after Christmas Mass.
It consists of a delectable and hearty Yule log caked called Bûche de Noël and shortbreads called Punitions. Both the smell of the popular baked goods can easily make anyone feel the Christmas spirit at home.
3. Sweden: Feasting on Swedish Meatballs
Even if St. Lucia's Day is finished, Christmas has just begun in Sweden. No celebration would be complete without feasting on Swedish meatballs. From packing it with onion or espresso, these meatballs take these delightful bites of meat to a whole new level in the country.
Once done with the savory, the Swedes move on to something sweet, which is called Risgrynsgröt or a traditional rice pudding. Those who opt for smaller bites of desert, Swedes also have Lussekatter, those little buns of gooey sweetness.
