Boxing Day, traditionally the day after Christmas, is a holiday celebrated primarily in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries. While its origins are rooted in charitable giving, today it’s often a day for relaxation, sales, and most importantly, enjoying time with loved ones. A key part of Boxing Day celebrations is the food – often utilizing the wonderful bounty of Christmas dinner, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, creating a brand new festive spread. Rather than laboring over complex dishes, Boxing Day is the perfect opportunity for informal, delicious, and fuss-free eating.
Are you staring down a mountain of Christmas leftovers, wondering how to give them a new lease on life? Or are you looking to break from tradition and create a fresh and exciting meal? Look no further! This article provides a wealth of Boxing Day food ideas, ranging from creative ways to repurpose your Christmas feast to inspiration for entirely new dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find inspiration to make your Boxing Day a culinary success. Get ready to transform those Christmas leftovers into something truly special or whip up a brand-new, unforgettable Boxing Day feast!
Leftover Magic: Creative Ways to Repurpose Christmas Dinner
One of the most beloved Boxing Day traditions is transforming the Christmas Day feast into exciting new dishes. It’s not just about avoiding waste; it’s about celebrating the flavors of the holiday in new and innovative ways. Let’s dive into some creative and delicious ways to give those leftovers a second life.
The Classic Turkey (or Ham) Sandwiches
Let’s start with the obvious, but let’s elevate it! Yes, the classic turkey or ham sandwich is a Boxing Day staple, but it doesn’t have to be boring. The key is to choose the right bread and condiments. Forget plain white bread; opt for crusty rolls, flaky croissants, or even focaccia for a more gourmet experience.
For condiments, move beyond basic mayonnaise. Cranberry sauce adds a touch of sweetness and tartness that complements turkey perfectly. Chutney, especially a spiced apple or onion chutney, provides a complex flavor profile. Horseradish mayonnaise offers a zesty kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Take your sandwich to the next level by adding extra toppings. Leftover stuffing adds a savory element. A few slices of brie cheese creates a creamy richness. Caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory depth of flavor. Some people also add thin slices of apple or pear for a contrasting texture and taste. Consider adding bacon for an extra smoky touch. These additions will transform your humble turkey sandwich into a Boxing Day masterpiece.
Turkey (or Ham) Pie or Casserole
A hearty pie or casserole is a perfect way to use up a significant amount of leftover turkey or ham. This is comfort food at its finest, ideal for a cozy Boxing Day meal. It’s surprisingly easy to make and can be tailored to your preferences.
First, shred or dice the leftover turkey or ham. Sauté some onions, carrots, and celery in butter or oil until softened. Add some flour and cook for a minute or two to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken or turkey stock (or even leftover gravy) until you have a smooth sauce. Add your shredded turkey or ham, along with any leftover vegetables you have on hand, such as Brussels sprouts, peas, or green beans. Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs you like.
Pour the mixture into a pie dish or casserole dish. For the crust, you have several options. Puff pastry provides a light and flaky topping. Shortcrust pastry offers a more traditional and substantial crust. For a rustic and comforting twist, you can even use a mashed potato topping. Brush the crust with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and bubbly.
For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of cheese to the top of the casserole before baking, or stirring some leftover gravy into the sauce before adding the turkey.
Boxing Day Bubble and Squeak
For those unfamiliar, Bubble and Squeak is a traditional British dish made from leftover cooked vegetables, typically potatoes and cabbage. The name comes from the sound the vegetables make as they cook in the pan. It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile dish.
To make Bubble and Squeak, simply mash or chop all your leftover cooked vegetables, such as potatoes, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and peas. Heat some oil or butter in a large frying pan. Add the vegetables and flatten them into a patty. Cook over medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides, flipping carefully.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some bacon or leftover sausages to the mix. Serve with a fried egg on top and a dollop of your favorite sauce, such as HP sauce or ketchup. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious way to use up those vegetable odds and ends.
Elevating Leftover Stuffing
Don’t let your delicious Christmas stuffing go to waste! There are plenty of ways to enjoy it beyond simply reheating it as a side dish. Roll them into balls, dip them in beaten egg, and deep-fry them for a crispy, savory snack. You can also crumble the stuffing and use it as a topping for gratins or casseroles, adding a flavorful and textural element.
Christmas Gravy Ideas
Transform your leftover Christmas gravy into something even more special! Adding sauteed mushrooms will transform it into a rich mushroom gravy, perfect for serving with roast beef or steak. For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with some leftover wine while making the gravy. This will add depth and complexity to the flavor.
Beyond Leftovers: Fresh & Festive Boxing Day Dishes
While using up leftovers is a Boxing Day tradition, it’s also a great opportunity to create something completely new and exciting. Let’s explore some fresh and festive dishes perfect for a Boxing Day celebration.
Boxing Day Brunch or Breakfast Ideas
Start Boxing Day off right with a delicious and leisurely brunch or breakfast. Smoked salmon and scrambled eggs are a classic combination that’s always a winner. Fluffy pancakes with berries and cream are a sweet and satisfying treat.
Another great option is a Boxing Day frittata. Simply whisk together some eggs, milk, and cheese, and then add any leftover vegetables or meats you have on hand. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until set. It’s a quick, easy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers.
Cold Cuts and Charcuterie Board
A charcuterie board is a perfect way to offer a variety of flavors and textures, and it’s incredibly easy to assemble. Select a variety of cured meats, cheeses, crackers, pickles, olives, and fruits. Arrange them artfully on a board and let your guests help themselves.
The key to a great charcuterie board is variety. Choose a range of meats, from prosciutto and salami to chorizo and pastrami. Select cheeses with different textures and flavors, such as brie, cheddar, goat cheese, and blue cheese. Include a variety of crackers, breads, and fruits to provide different textures and flavors. Add pickles, olives, and other condiments to provide a tangy and salty contrast.
Presentation is key. Arrange the items on the board in an appealing way, using different heights and textures to create visual interest. This makes it even more enticing for your guests.
Warming Soups and Stews
On a chilly Boxing Day, a warming soup or stew is the perfect comfort food. Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious option that’s packed with flavor. A robust vegetable stew is a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
If you have a leftover turkey carcass, you can use it to make a delicious and flavorful turkey noodle soup. Simply simmer the carcass in water with vegetables and herbs to create a broth. Remove the carcass and shred any remaining meat. Add noodles and vegetables to the broth and cook until tender. It’s a comforting and satisfying soup that’s perfect for a cold day.
Light and Refreshing Salads
After the indulgence of Christmas dinner, a light and refreshing salad can be a welcome change. A winter salad with roasted vegetables and goat cheese is a flavorful and satisfying option. A citrus salad with avocado and pomegranate provides a burst of fresh flavors. A crisp salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice. Salads are the perfect way to balance out richer leftover meals.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Don’t forget about dessert! Boxing Day is a great opportunity to get creative with leftover Christmas pudding or mince pies.
Christmas Pudding Transformations
Transform your Christmas pudding into something even more decadent! Christmas pudding ice cream is a surprisingly delicious treat. Simply crumble the pudding into softened vanilla ice cream and freeze. Christmas pudding truffles are another great option. Crumble the pudding and mix it with cream cheese and cocoa powder. Roll the mixture into balls and coat with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.
Mince Pie Alternatives
Give your mince pies a makeover! A mince pie crumble is a warm and comforting dessert. Crumble some shortbread cookies or oats over the mince pies and bake until golden brown. A mince pie frangipane tart is a more elegant option. Top the mince pies with a layer of frangipane (almond cream) and bake until golden brown.
Chocolate Bark with Leftover Candy
A fun and easy way to use up leftover candy is to make chocolate bark. Melt some chocolate and spread it on a baking sheet. Decorate with leftover candy canes, chocolates, and nuts. Let the chocolate cool and harden, then break it into pieces.
Drinks & Festive Beverages
No Boxing Day celebration is complete without festive drinks.
Mulled Wine or Cider (Revisited)
Reheat and enjoy any leftover mulled wine or cider from Christmas. The warm spices and fruity flavors are perfect for a cold day.
Festive Cocktails
Get into the holiday spirit with festive cocktails. A cranberry Moscow mule is a refreshing and festive twist on a classic. A spiced rum punch is perfect for a party.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Don’t forget about non-alcoholic options! Sparkling cider is a festive and refreshing choice. A gingerbread latte is a warm and comforting drink.
Tips for Easy Boxing Day Entertaining
Boxing Day is all about relaxation and spending time with loved ones, so here are a few tips for easy entertaining:
- Plan Ahead: Prepare some dishes in advance to reduce stress on the day.
- Embrace Casual Dining: Opt for a buffet style or sharing platters to encourage mingling and conversation.
- Delegate: Ask guests to bring a dish or drinks to share the workload.
- Keep it Relaxed: Remember, the goal is to enjoy time with family and friends, so don’t stress about perfection.
Boxing Day is a wonderful opportunity to savor delicious food, connect with loved ones, and celebrate the spirit of the season. Whether you choose to transform your Christmas leftovers into creative culinary masterpieces or create a brand new festive spread, remember to embrace the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the company of those around you. Experiment with these Boxing Day food ideas and adapt them to your own tastes, making this holiday a unique and memorable experience. Wishing you a happy and delicious Boxing Day!
