If you’re looking to celebrate Christmas in a unique and delicious way, look no further than Austrian Christmas dinner. This hearty feast is filled with traditional dishes that will transport you to the heart of Austria. From juicy roasted meats to sweet treats, this meal is sure to impress your guests and fill your home with the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 large turkey, about 10-12 pounds
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup dried breadcrumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the giblets and neck from the turkey and set aside.
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Mix well and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sautéed vegetables, walnuts, raisins, apricots, and cherries. Mix well.
- Stuff the turkey with the breadcrumb mixture and truss the legs together.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and rub the remaining butter over the skin. Season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the turkey for about 3-4 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan drippings.
- Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.
- Meanwhile, prepare the gravy. Melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, red wine, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Serve the turkey with the gravy on the side.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1/12 of turkey
Calories: 545
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 202mg
Sodium: 1125mg
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 50g
Cooking Time:
3-4 hours
Equipment:
- Roasting pan
- Skillet
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the turkey with traditional Austrian sides like roasted potatoes, red cabbage, and spätzle. Don’t forget to finish off the meal with some sweet treats like Linzer cookies or Christmas stollen.
Variations:
For a twist on the classic recipe, try using a different type of dried fruit or nut in the stuffing. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices in the gravy.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have a turkey, you could use a large chicken or even a beef roast. You could also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make a vegetarian gravy.
Storage:
Leftover turkey and gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Tips:
- Make sure to let the turkey rest before carving to ensure juicy meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t forget to baste the turkey every 30 minutes for a crispy, golden skin.
Notes:
This recipe serves 12 people and is perfect for a large holiday gathering. You can easily adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is spätzle?
Spätzle is a type of soft egg noodle that is commonly served in Austria and Germany. It is typically boiled and served as a side dish.
What is Christmas stollen?
Christmas stollen is a sweet bread that is filled with dried fruit, nuts, and spices. It is a traditional Christmas treat in Austria and Germany.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you could use a chicken or beef roast instead of a turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Austrian Christmas dinner is a truly special meal that is perfect for celebrating the holiday season. From the juicy, flavorful turkey to the rich and savory gravy, every bite is filled with deliciousness. The traditional sides and sweet treats are the perfect complement to the main course, making this a meal that your guests won’t soon forget. So why not give this recipe a try and bring a taste of Austria to your holiday table?