Since I was a child, the youngest of six in a very social and busy family, I have relished the excitement in preparing for a celebration. I have never outgrown this, and no matter how small the occasion, I still get a lot of pleasure in anticipating and planning the food for guests.
For Christmas celebrations, our whole family is involved in planning the menu. The merits of each dish are carefully weighed. Turkey? We had it last year but it was good. Duck? Sounds good – with turkey breast for those who prefer white meat. Perhaps tiny quail, one for each person? Or roast pork with crispy crackling? Seafood?
Once the main dish is settled, the next question is how to cook it. Don’t forget all the trimmings – stuffing and familiar vegetables served with a twist, and make plenty of gravy.