December is a magical time of year, not just for the festive cheer but also for the incredible array of seasonal produce available. From hearty root vegetables to luxurious game meats and vibrant citrus fruits, this month’s ingredients bring comfort and flavour to every meal. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or simply enjoying winter’s bounty, here’s a guide to the best seasonal foods in the UK this December.
Seasonal Vegetables
The colder months are the perfect time to embrace earthy, robust vegetables.
Brussels Sprouts: Love them or hate them, sprouts are a quintessential December staple. Roast them with pancetta and chestnuts for a festive twist.
Parsnips: Sweet and nutty, parsnips shine when roasted with honey or pureed into a velvety soup with warming spices.
Red Cabbage: This vibrant vegetable adds a pop of colour and tang to your plate. Braise it with apples, spices, and a splash of red wine for a classic Christmas side dish.
Kale: Packed with nutrients, kale can be sautéed with garlic or added to soups for a hearty winter boost.
Swede: Often overlooked, swede is a versatile root vegetable with a subtly sweet flavour. Mash with butter for creamed swede, or roast with maple syrup for a delicious side dish.
Other seasonal favourites include carrots, cauliflower, and leeks—ideal for comforting stews and casseroles.
Seasonal Fruits
December’s fruits are a mix of zingy citrus and homegrown classics that bring brightness to winter dishes.
Clementines: These sweet, easy-to-peel fruits are a holiday essential, perfect for snacking or adding to desserts.
Pears: Juicy and versatile, pears can be poached in red wine, baked into crumbles, or enjoyed fresh with cheese.
Cranberries: Tart and vibrant, cranberries are perfect for making sauces, chutneys, or festive cocktails.
Apples: British-grown apples like Bramley and Cox’s Orange Pippin are still in season, lending themselves to pies, tarts, and mulled ciders.
Meat, Game, and Fish
December is a prime time for seasonal game and hearty meats that are perfect for warming winter meals.
Turkey: The centerpiece of many Christmas dinners, turkey is lean, flavourful, and pairs beautifully with seasonal veg and cranberry sauce.
Venison: Rich and earthy, venison is a luxurious game meat ideal for stews or roasting.
Goose: A traditional alternative to turkey, goose offers a more indulgent flavour and crispy skin.
Oysters: December is the peak of oyster season, making them a sophisticated starter for festive feasts. They pair beautifully with some celebratory Champagne too!
Mackerel and Herring: These oily fish are at their best in colder months, perfect for grilling or pickling.
Foraged and Wild Foods
If you’re adventurous, December offers opportunities for foraging:
Chestnuts: Roast them for a festive treat or use them in stuffing.
Wild Mushrooms: Add earthy flavour to risottos, sauces, or soups. Be very careful when foraging mushrooms though!! Make sure you know how to spot the safe ones and the dangerous ones!
December’s seasonal foods offer comfort, richness, and a touch of festive magic. By embracing local, in-season produce, you’ll not only enjoy the best flavours of the month but also support sustainable and environmentally friendly eating.
🎄 Cheers to a flavourful December! 🍽️