Celebrated chef Yotam Ottolenghi recently revealed his approach to Christmas meals, blending traditional elements with his distinctive culinary style. During a virtual conversation, Ottolenghi discussed the menu he is preparing for the festive season, highlighting his commitment to both tradition and creativity.
Born in Israel and raised in a Jewish family, Ottolenghi now calls London home. His culinary philosophy allows him to explore the holiday without the constraints often associated with specific cultural dishes. Unlike traditional Jewish holidays that feature fixed meals, Christmas for Ottolenghi offers a chance to curate a fresh menu each year. “You do that the rest of the year, and Christmas, or any other holidays for that matter,” he explained. He believes that while Jewish cuisine holds strong symbolic meanings during holidays, Christmas is more about gathering and enjoying a meal together.
The chef emphasized that Christmas meals do not carry the same weight of tradition as those in Jewish culture. Instead, he sees value in creating a familiar yet dynamic dining experience. “It all comes down to tradition, without being fanatic about it,” he stated.
Ottolenghi’s Christmas menu features a classic turkey or goose, complemented by spicy condiments, reflecting his penchant for bold flavours. He incorporates unique elements into traditional sides, such as roast potatoes enhanced with spices or herbs. This year, he plans to serve roasted cabbage halves drizzled with a pine nut vinaigrette and fresh basil. “I like to keep things light, happy, and spicy,” he remarked, aiming for a festive yet digestible meal.
As the holiday season approaches, Ottolenghi is also preparing for his return to Australia for the first time in two years. He will embark on a tour titled An Evening With Yotam Ottolenghi, promoting his latest book, Comfort. The tour kicks off on February 10, 2024, and will include stops in cities such as Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, and Sydney. Attendees can expect a blend of audience interaction and live cooking demonstrations, showcasing how to elevate comfort food.
For those seeking recipe inspiration, Ottolenghi’s holiday offerings reflect his innovative approach to traditional meals. His emphasis on seasonal ingredients and a mix of flavours captures the essence of festive gatherings. As families prepare to come together this December, Ottolenghi’s take on Christmas may inspire new culinary traditions around the world.
For more information on tour dates and tickets, visit fane.com.au.
