Delicious Christmas Meal Recipe Ideas for the Whole Family

Legend has it that the origins of this Butternut Soup can be traced back to a cozy Parisian café tucked away in the heart of the city. Towards the end of the 18^th century, the chef-cuisinier Laguipière created a pumpkin soup that kept his name. It was to a trio of army generals, that he proposed a butternut version, which acquired a reputation under the name of Laguipière’s soup.

In 1820, on the initiative of its new owner, Jean Véfour, the café became a sumptuous restaurant and the best gastronomic spot in Paris. For almost a century, the restaurant was a meeting place for the political and artistic elite of Paris. Bonaparte (a plaque indicates the table he occupied), Joséphine de Beauharnais, Mac Mahon, George Sand, Lamartine, Victor Hugo and others were among its regular customers. This soup potentially played a role in the restaurant’s popularity

As word spread about this dish, the popularity of the butternut soup soared, and it became over the years a sought-after dish during the holiday season. Parisians, known for their love of good food and convivial gatherings, embrace the soup as a comforting and indulgent addition to their festive meals. Today, this butternut soup has become a beloved Christmas tradition in many households. Families gather around the table, savouring the creamy soup with its hints of nutmeg and thyme.

With our recipe, we’ve given you a slight twist by adding a delicious grilled cheese sandwich that accompanies it. It’s a delightful combination that warms the soul and brings a touch of Parisian elegance to the Christmas festivities.

To make the Pancetta Turkey and Chestnut Burgers dish even more special, consider adding some unique twists and personal touches that will elevate the flavours and presentation. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Festive herb infusion: infuse the ground turkey with a medley of festive herbs such as sage, rosemary, and thyme. This will impart a fragrant and savoury note to the burgers, enhancing their festive appeal.
• Cranberry relish: instead of using cranberry sauce as a topping, create a tangy cranberry relish by combining fresh cranberries with a touch of orange zest, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of brown sugar. This vibrant relish adds a burst of freshness and complements the savoury flavours of the burger.
• Gourmet cheese selection: experiment with different types of cheese to take the burger to the next level. Consider using a creamy brie or a tangy blue cheese instead of the traditional American cheese. The richness and complexity of these cheeses will add a luxurious touch to each bite.
• Sweet and spicy glaze: create a glaze by combining maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Brush this glaze onto the burgers during the final minutes of grilling to add a balance of sweet and spicy flavours that will indulge the taste buds.
• Caramelised onions: elevate the flavour profile by topping the burgers with a generous serving of caramelised onions. Slowly cook thinly sliced onions in butter until they turn a rich golden brown, adding a sweet and savoury component that complements the pancetta and chestnuts.

• Breaded chicken alternatives: if you prefer a plant based option, you can substitute the breaded chickjen with a vegetarian patty, this way you can enjoy the delicious flavours of the burger without compromise.
• Additional toppings: customise the burger with additional toppings to enhance the flavour and add your personal touch. Consider adding sliced tomatoes, red onions, or pickles for extra freshness. You can also include avocado slices or crispy bacon for added creaminess or smokiness.
• Greens and herbs: while lettuce leaves are traditionally used, you can experiment with different greens to elevate the burger’s taste and texture. Try using rocket leaves for a peppery kick or baby spinach for a milder, earthy flavour. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like basil or coriander can provide a burst of freshness.
• Toasted buns: enhance the burger’s overall texture and taste by lightly toasting the St Pierre Seeded Brioche Burger Buns in the oven. this step adds a delightful crunch and brings out the natural sweetness of the buns, creating a more satisfying eating experience.
• Sauce adjustments: the balance between cranberry sauce and spicy chili sauce can be adjusted to suit personal preferences. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the amount of cranberry sauce, and reduce the spicy chili sauce. On the other hand, for a spicier kick, add more chili sauce and decrease the cranberry sauce.