Christmas Dinner

[GizmoFrisby]

I really want to cook something other than turkey for Christmas dinner. I was debating a rib of beef, however I haven't cooked this before, has anyone cooked/got advice/ideas for this?

Works really well as a fast roast in v hot oven. Roast it directly on the shelf with a tray on the shelf below to catch the drips.

Serve it with a big Yorkshire pudding. Cook the Yorkshire underneath the beef to catch the drips too.

How long would I cook it for? Obviously will depend on size of the joint.

Goose. Always goose for christmas in our house.

Haunch of Venison? We did it one year and my Mother thought it the best Christmas Dinner she had ever had!

How many people? I've done pheasants before, allowing 1 for two diners, along with the usual trimmings, stuffing etc. Good thing about them is they don't take too long, so no getting up at 3am to turn on the oven.

You can always do a trial run with one before hand if you aren't used to cooking game.

Goose it is bloody delicious! Much nicer than turkey, and more special than beef.

We do belly pork because it's so delicious and takes up very little room!

Ifailed there is only 2 adults and 2 children however I plate up some for my dad who visits at some point Christmas night. Venison sounds good, not so sure about goose, is it a strong taste like duck? I don't like duck. Thanks

civilfaulty I did look at pork but I've never cooked it. Is it easy to cock up?

I would only do a fatty cut of pork, such as a shoulder or belly. The lean cuts are very easy to cock up and can end up so dry.

Hey Gizmo. Belly pork is REALLY easy and completely delicious and quick. Salt helps the crackling to work, and you can stud it with fennel or chilli or garlic if you are feeling fancy (maybe not for Christmas). The Jamie Oliver recipe is pretty good.

Oh I will have a look. Thanks