There’s nothing quite like the holiday season—a time when kitchens come alive with the comforting aroma of family recipes, laughter rings out from every corner, and bonds are strengthened over shared meals. Cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about creating moments of connection and joy. This year, take the time to cook, sip on festive cocktails, eat to your heart’s content, and be merry with those you hold dear. These three holiday favorite recipes—including a soul food classic—are sure to bring warmth, flavor, and love to your holiday table.
Recipe 1. Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs collard greens, cleaned and chopped
- 1 lb smoked turkey leg or ham hock
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
- Add the smoked turkey leg/ham hock and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add the collard greens and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the greens are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish as a side!
Recipe 2. Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Ingredients:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or sliced regular carrots)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the baby carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle honey over the carrots, and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Add a splash of water, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the carrots are tender.
- Remove the lid, stir in the lemon juice, and cook for another minute. Serve warm for a sweet, savory side!
Recipe 3: Honey-Glazed Holiday Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 spiral-sliced ham (8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cloves, and butter. Heat until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Brush the glaze generously over the ham, reserving some for basting.
- Cover the ham with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe 4: Festive Cranberry Orange Mimosa
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 bottle Prosecco or sparkling wine, chilled
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
Instructions:
- In a pitcher, mix the cranberry juice and orange juice.
- Fill each champagne flute halfway with the juice mixture.
- Top with Prosecco or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and orange slices for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately and toast to a joyful holiday season!
Closing Thoughts
This holiday season, let’s embrace the joy of cooking and savoring meals with those we love. Whether it’s a pot of soul-soothing collard greens, a beautifully glazed ham, or a bubbly cranberry orange mimosa, these recipes are meant to bring smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your family, and make your kitchen the heart of your holiday celebration. Cheers to good food, good company, and holiday cheer!
Cheers To You,
Ingrid