Would you bother with the traditional meal or eat something else instead?

[Wheneveryonesmokedinpubs]

Live abroad with Dp and toddler dd.
Won’t be going home to the U.K. for Christmas or having anyone over on Xmas day (will see friends in the lead up to Xmas)
Have had a traditional Christmas meal every Christmas my entire life.
Was chatting to dp about the cost and effort of it all, he said let’s not have it 🤷🏻‍♀️Spend less than we do on all the crap and just eat something nice we like.
Would you do it or stick to traditional because it’s Christmas?
If you wouldn’t, what would you/could we have instead?

It's the sort of thing that you and your DP should decide op because it depends on so many things:

• whether you and your DP enjoy cooking and eating or are not that bothered?
• where you are located, what is traditional fare there, and what is available?
• your budget?
• whether you want your toddler to eat the same thing?
• whether you have both been working up to Christmas and are tired?

Speaking as an expat, whatever you do, I would try and make a bit of an effort or you might feel a bit miserable.

Some suggestions:

• Lorraine Pascale chilli (you could make some that is less spicy for your toddler)
• some marinaded ribs with baked spuds and salad
• steak, salad, and potato wedges
• sausage wreath with salad
• salmon, new potatoes, salad, with parsley, & walnut pesto
• some big beef casserole or stew that you can return to over a few days!
• or a traditional pie
• or eat what the locals are eating!

Or pre- prepare a few main dishes like shepherd's pie or lasagne and have them in the freezer ready so you can take it easy and spend a bit more on wine, cheese and fruit.

Whatever you do, make sure you have a definite plan so that you know who is doing what. Don't leave it to chance! It doesn't really matter what you eat, as long as it's a bit special and you both enjoy it!

Thank you all!