As Christmas 2024 approaches, major supermarkets in the UK have already unveiled the culinary delights they anticipate will be at the heart of festive celebrations.
Cheese enthusiasts will find plenty to savour this Christmas. According to reports, 61% of UK adults prefer crafting their own cheeseboards. This trend has been duly noted by Tesco, which identifies cheddar, brie, red Leicester, flavoured wensleydale, and camembert as the top choices. Aldi has introduced a 1kg Luxury Cheese Truckle Tower featuring popular varieties like Extra Mature Coastal Cheddar. Asda has also catered to creative customers with its ‘Fantastic Grazing Board’ and ‘Charcuter-wreath’ DIY kits.
Festive food-to-go options are a significant focus this year. Co-op has updated its premium range with a peppercorn steak wrap with rosemary dip and a turkey, truffle, and brie sandwich. Asda is offering an alternative with its Let It Spice Festive Curry Wrap, featuring unique Christmas flavours. Tesco remains committed to classic offerings with its Finest Festive Chicken and Bacon Wrap, complete with a gravy mayonnaise dip.
The concept of ‘new nostalgia’ is emerging in Christmas trends. Waitrose is reimagining family favourites, launching items like Warming Crispy Bacon Carbonara Cups and Frangipane Mince Pies with caramelised almonds. Sainsbury’s is embracing retro dishes such as terrines and prawn cocktails, in response to the 60% of the nation eager to rediscover traditional fare.
The trend of reduced alcohol consumption is also making its mark this festive season. Tesco anticipates a surge in low and no alcohol drinks, offering Elderflower and Blood Orange Spritzis, among others. For those inclined towards a festive tipple, Sainsbury’s presents flavoured liqueurs, and Asda introduces a Black Cherry Gin and Spiced White Chocolate Cream Liqueur.
Dessert and mince pie innovations are capturing imaginations. Asda reintroduces its Fig, Whisky and Honey flavour, while Aldi’s dessert selections include a Ruby Port, Fig and Cheese Puff Pastry Mince Pie and an Ultimate Gold Coin dessert. M&S offers a festive makeover for its Colin the Caterpillar cake and introduces new items like a Salted Caramel Tiramisu Cheesecake.
Convenience is key this Christmas with ‘Christmas dinner in a box’. Sainsbury’s sets a festive spread for four with turkey, roast vegetables, and pigs in blankets, available for £45. Iceland offers a similar option at a lower price point of £25.
Traditional favourites like pigs in blankets are also receiving a makeover. Iceland is launching a Luxury XXL version within a Yorkshire pudding, while Asda offers an Exceptional Pigs in Blankets Wreath with Camembert and Hot Honey Drizzle.
The demand for vegetarian and vegan Christmas options is rising. Tesco reports 27% of shoppers are considering plant-based choices. Their offerings include a Plant Chef Seeded Roast and a Butternut Wellington. M&S unveils exclusive vegetarian dishes like a Butternut Squash, Brie & Caramelised Onion Wellington. Aldi expands its range with a Roasted Vegetable Snowflake and Rainbow Vegetable Parcel.
The festive season of 2024 promises a diverse array of culinary options, showcasing innovation and a nod to tradition. Whether opting for a vegetarian feast, indulging in nostalgic flavours, or exploring the creative realm of DIY cheeseboards and innovative festive wraps, shoppers are presented with an extensive selection to suit their festive preferences.
