Must-Try Christmas Recipes to Wow Your Guests

The material was prepared in the collaboration with Spice Punch BBQ. 

As the holiday season approaches, it's time to bring some festive cheer to your table. These two recipes are perfect for Christmas gatherings—easy to prepare, indulgent, and full of flavour. Whether you're serving up the smoky goodness of salmon crumpets or the comforting gooeyness of baked Camembert, these dishes are guaranteed to impress your guests.

Cedar Plank Hot Smoked Salmon Crumpets with Gravlax Sauce

Ingredients:

• Side of deboned salmon
• Crumpets
• Crème cheese
• Fresh dill
• White vinegar
• Oil
• Salt and pepper
• Honey mustard (or a mix of honey and mustard)

For the Gravlax Sauce:

• 2 tbsp honey mustard (or 2 tbsp honey with mustard to taste)
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 3 tbsp high-quality oil
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill
• ¼ tsp salt and black pepper, or to taste

Method:

1. Smoke the Salmon:
• Preheat your smoker to 110°C (230°F).
• Place the salmon on a cedar plank and smoke until the internal temperature reaches 45-50°C (113-122°F). This process ensures a tender, flavorful result.
2. Prepare the Gravlax Sauce:
• In a bowl, whisk the honey mustard and vinegar until well blended.
• Gradually whisk in the oil, followed by the chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to three days; shake before serving.
3. Assemble the Crumpets:
• Toast the crumpets until golden brown and spread with a thick layer of crème cheese.
• Top with slices of the smoked salmon, a drizzle of gravlax sauce, and extra dill for garnish.

Tip: Serve warm for a fresh, smoky flavor, or chill the salmon in advance for a quick, cold starter.

Baked Loaded Camembert: Two Festive Styles

Ingredients for Method 1 (Classic):

• Camembert in its wooden box
• 1-2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Black pepper
• Toasted bread slices (e.g., ciabatta or baguette)

Ingredients for Method 2 (Creative):

• Camembert in its wooden box
• Welsh Homestead Smokery Bacon Jam (or your favorite jam)
• Toasted bread slices (e.g., ciabatta or baguette)

How to Make It:

1. Prepare the Cheese:
• Preheat your oven or BBQ to 110°C-130°C (230°F-266°F).
• Remove the plastic wrap from the Camembert and place it back in its wooden box.
2. Method 1 (Classic):
• Slice the rind on top of the cheese and make small cuts into the surface.
• Insert garlic slices and rosemary sprigs into the cuts. Sprinkle with black pepper.
3. Method 2 (Creative):
• Slice the top rind and spread bacon jam over the surface.
• Optionally, sprinkle with BBQ rub or other spices for extra flavor.
4. Bake or Smoke:
• Place the prepared Camembert in the oven or BBQ for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is gooey and melty.
5. Serve:
• Serve warm with toasted bread slices for dipping.

Variations: Add your personal twist with sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, sage, caramelized onions, or chili flakes.

Both of these recipes are versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences, making them perfect for holiday starters or casual gatherings. Whether you're serving smoky salmon crumpets or gooey baked Camembert, these dishes are sure to delight your guests and keep them coming back for more. Happy cooking!