The festive season is upon us, and whether you’re eating your Christmas lunch at home or celebrating with friends and family at one of the best places to eat in Wembley Park, you may be wondering what to choose for your main course. Turkey is a traditional and popular option, but it’s not for everyone. With that in mind, here are six alternatives you can try.
1. Beef
Beef is a popular alternative to turkey, providing a juicy, tender meat to enjoy with your roast potatoes and veggies. You can opt for a beef joint or, as many people do, wrap it in pastry and coat it with finely chopped mushrooms to create a beef wellington. Just remember to rest the beef for at least 20 minutes before serving, as this allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a more tender cut.
2. Goose
Goose is associated with a Victorian Christmas, and is a more luxurious choice than turkey. It’s a little harder to find, but can be delicious when cooked properly, and has the added bonus of crisp, golden skin. You can even use the fat to cook your roast potatoes. Serve it with apple sauce and mashed potatoes just as the Cratchits do in A Christmas Carol.
3. Sea bass
Sea bass is a tasty option for pescatarians or those who want a lighter Christmas lunch. With its delicate, mild flavour, flaky texture and ability to pair with a range of sauces, it’s a versatile choice, and it’s easy to cook too. Serve baked, grilled or pan fried – here at Studio Five we love it grilled with lemon butter sauce, toasted almonds and sautéed French beans.
4. Nut roast
Whether you’re vegan or simply prefer something different this year, nut roast is a festive favourite. Combining mixed nuts with veggies and lentils, it has a satisfyingly crusty exterior and a soft, textured interior. Serve with glazed parsnips, crispy roast potatoes and steamed veg.
5. Mushroom wellington
Another meat-free winner is mushroom wellington. Replacing the beef is a delicious mix of mushrooms, puy lentils and spinach, all wrapped in golden, flaky pastry. Served with a side of Brussels sprouts and chestnuts, and lashings of vegetable gravy, it’s a fantastic festive centrepiece for vegetarian diners.
6. Salmon tartare
If you’re looking for something lighter that still feels special on Christmas Day, salmon tartare is sure to fit the bill. This lightly cured salmon dish is full of flavour, bringing a freshness to your meal. Accompanied by avocado, shallots and homemade bread, it makes the perfect starter – or serve with a shredded Brussels sprouts salad and buttered new potatoes to turn it into a main.
If you’re planning a festive meal at one of the best restaurants in Wembley, check out Studio Five’s Christmas menu. Packed with flavour and perfect for a pre-Christmas lunch with friends or colleagues, it offers a choice of vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options to suit a range of dietary requirements. Search ‘best restaurants near Wembley’ and reserve your table with us today.
