5 Delicious Christmas Dishes from Spanish-Speaking Countries

By Marta Prieto

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December 21, 2021

Contents

Introduction
Tostones – A Crispy and Flavorful Side Dish
Panettone – A Sweet Christmas Tradition
Christmas Tamales – A Holiday Classic
Christmas Roast – The Star of the Feast
Turrón – A Sweet and Nutty Delight
Additional Christmas Dishes to Explore
Final Thoughts

Introduction

Christmas dinner is one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season. Families and friends gather to enjoy a variety of dishes. Food plays a key role in celebrations around the globe.

Spanish-speaking countries each have unique Christmas traditions. These cultures celebrate with a mix of savory roasts and sweet treats. Each dish makes the holiday even more special. Here are 10 Spanish holidays and traditions that celebrate culture through food and family—each offering a delicious glimpse into the heart of Hispanic festive customs.

Christmas traditions in Hispanic countries you should know often revolve around food, family, and festive gatherings. Making each dish not only a culinary experience but also a reflection of rich cultural heritage.

A traditional Christmas dinner in Hispanic countries varies by region. However, one thing stays constant: the love and warmth in preparing these meals. Whether it's a tasty roast, a comforting tamale, or a delightful dessert, these dishes hold deep cultural meaning. They also add flavor to the festive celebrations.

If you want Christmas food ideas with a touch of Hispanic culture, try these five tasty dishes. They will impress your guests and make your holiday feast memorable.

1. TOSTONES – A Crispy and Flavorful Side Dish

Tostones are a cherished Christmas side dish across Latin America. You can find them in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. These twice-fried plantains are crispy outside and soft inside. They make a perfect addition to any Christmas dinner.

To make tostones, start by slicing green plantains into rounds. Fry them once until they turn slightly golden. Then, flatten each piece using a wooden spoon or a tostonera. Finally, fry them again until they are crispy.

They are often served with mojo criollo (a garlic and vinegar sauce), guacamole, or pico de gallo. Their crunchy texture and savory flavor make them a staple in many Hispanic households during the holidays.

Tostones go great with roasted meats, stews, and Christmas dishes. They add flavor and versatility to your holiday menu.

2. PANETTONE – A Sweet Christmas Tradition

Panettone started in Italy but is now a beloved tradition in Spanish-speaking countries. This includes Spain, Argentina, and Peru. This sweet, fluffy sponge cake is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and sometimes chocolate. It makes a delightful treat for Christmas dinner.

Panettone is typically enjoyed on Christmas Eve with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee. Many families serve it as a dessert or even as part of breakfast during the holiday season. Its airy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite among both children and adults.

If you're looking for Christmas food ideas that add a sweet touch to your holiday spread, panettone is an excellent choice. Serve it sliced with butter or jam for an extra layer of indulgence.

3. CHRISTMAS TAMALES – A Holiday Classic

Tamales are a staple in many Latin American countries, including Mexico, Venezuela, and Colombia. While they can be found throughout the year, they hold a special place in traditional Christmas dinner celebrations.

These tasty parcels are made from masa, or corn dough. They are filled with seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables. Wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, they get steamed.

Making tamales is often a family event. Several generations gather to prepare big batches before Christmas.

Tamales are usually served with other Christmas side dishes like rice, beans, and salsas. This combination creates a festive and satisfying meal. Their rich flavors and comforting texture make them essential for the holiday season.

4. CHRISTMAS ROAST – The Star of the Feast

No Christmas dinner is complete without a showstopping roast, and in Spanish-speaking countries, this dish takes center stage. Different regions have their own versions of this holiday classic, but common meats include lamb, suckling pig, beef, or turkey.

In Spain, a roasted suckling pig (cochinillo asado) is a holiday favorite. In Argentina, grilled meats are popular for Christmas. Many Latin American countries serve pork roast (pernil) as the main dish. It's often accompanied by various Christmas side dishes like rice, salads, and fried plantains.

The key to a perfect Christmas roast is slow cooking, which ensures that the meat is tender and full of flavor. Choose a juicy pork shoulder, a crispy roast duck, or a herb-infused beef roast. This dish will be the star of your Christmas dinner.

5. TURRÓN – A Sweet and Nutty Delight

Turrón is a traditional Spanish sweet that has been enjoyed during the holiday season for centuries. Made from honey, almonds, and egg whites, this nougat-like confection comes in both soft and hard varieties. Some versions include chocolate, coconut, or other flavors, adding variety to this festive treat.

In Spain, turrón is a key part of Christmas food traditions. It is often served at the end of a holiday meal with coffee or dessert wine. Turrón is also popular in Latin America, with various regional variations.

This tasty candy is great for gifts or holiday gatherings. It adds a special touch to any Christmas meal ideas list. Just watch out for the harder types—they need strong teeth to enjoy!

Additional Christmas Dishes to Explore

These dishes also reflect regional differences in Spanish culture across Latin America and Spain, showcasing how each country puts its own unique twist on traditional Christmas fare.

Here are more Christmas food ideas from Spanish-speaking countries to try this holiday season:

Lechón Asado
Buñuelos
Rosca de Reyes
Hallacas
Ensalada de Nochebuena

These dishes reflect the diversity and richness of Hispanic culinary traditions and make for a memorable Christmas dinner.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and, of course, delicious Christmas dishes. If you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or need new meal ideas, try these Hispanic-inspired foods. They’ll add a special touch to your celebration.

From crispy tostones to sweet panettone, Christmas food in Spanish-speaking countries is diverse. You can enjoy comforting tamales and tasty roasts. Each dish showcases the incredible variety of flavors and traditions. Whichever dish you pick, your holiday table will be full of warmth, tradition, and festive flavors.

So this year, why not add a touch of Latin flair to your Christmas dinner? Explore these recipes, experiment with new flavors, and make your holiday feast truly unforgettable!