Christmas Eve in Romania
Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays in Romania, and it is an important event that brings the family together. Christmas Eve, also known as "Ajunul Craciunului," is a special day that is celebrated on the night of December 24th, and it is believed to be the most significant part of the holiday. On this day, the Romanian people observe various traditions and customs, and they also enjoy a special meal consisting of various dishes.
The traditional Christmas Eve fast
Before the Christmas Eve dinner, the Romanian Orthodox Church requires a period of fasting. This fasting period lasts for 40 days and is known as "postul Craciunului." During this time, meat and dairy products are not consumed. However, on Christmas Eve, the fast is broken, and the family comes together to enjoy a traditional feast that typically includes fish, vegetables, and other meat dishes. Here are some of the most popular dishes that you can expect to find on a Romanian Christmas Eve table.
Ciorba de perisoare: Meatball soup
Ciorba de perisoare is a delicious meatball soup that is commonly served as a starter during the Christmas Eve dinner in Romania. The soup is made from a rich broth that is flavored with a blend of herbs and spices. The meatballs are made from ground pork and beef, mixed with rice and onion. The soup is typically garnished with sour cream and served hot.
Sarmale: Stuffed cabbage rolls
Sarmale is a traditional Romanian dish that consists of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and various herbs and spices. The cabbage rolls are then cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce and served hot. Sarmale is a staple dish during the Christmas Eve dinner, and it is often served alongside mashed potatoes or polenta.
Fasole batuta: Mashed beans
Fasole batuta is a simple yet satisfying dish that is often served as a side during the Christmas Eve dinner. The dish consists of mashed beans that are flavored with garlic, onion, and various herbs and spices. The mashed beans are typically served cold and garnished with a drizzle of olive oil.
Piftie: Cold pork jelly
Piftie is a unique dish that is made from boiled pork meat and bones. The meat and bones are then boiled for several hours until the broth turns into a gelatinous consistency. The dish is commonly served cold and sliced into small pieces, and it is typically garnished with garlic and onion. Piftie is a favorite dish during the Christmas Eve dinner, and it is often paired with a glass of local wine.
Cozonac: Sweet bread with nuts and raisins
Cozonac is a sweet bread that is commonly served during the Christmas Eve dinner in Romania. The bread is made from a rich dough that is mixed with various nuts, raisins, and sugar. The bread is typically baked in a loaf shape and served sliced, either plain or toasted.
Papanasi: Fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam
Papanasi is a popular dessert that is commonly served during the Christmas Eve dinner in Romania. The dish consists of fried doughnuts that are served hot and topped with a dollop of sour cream and jam. The doughnuts are typically made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs, and they are fried until golden brown.
Salata de boeuf: Potato salad with meat
Salata de boeuf is a hearty salad that is often served as a side dish during the Christmas Eve dinner. The salad consists of boiled potatoes, carrots, and meat, mixed with mayonnaise and various herbs and spices. The salad is typically garnished with slices of hard-boiled eggs and pickles.
Racitura: Meat jelly with vegetables
Racitura is a traditional Romanian dish that is commonly served during the Christmas Eve dinner. The dish consists of a gelatinous meat broth that is flavored with various herbs and spices and mixed with chopped vegetables. The dish is typically served cold and garnished with a drizzle of vinegar.
Smoked sausages and ham
Smoked sausages and ham are commonly served during the Christmas Eve dinner in Romania. The sausages and ham are typically served sliced, alongside various breads and cheeses. They are a staple of Romanian cuisine and are often enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
Conclusion: Enjoying Christmas Eve in Romania
In conclusion, the Christmas Eve dinner in Romania is a special occasion that is celebrated with family and friends. The traditional dishes served during this time reflect the country’s rich culinary history and are enjoyed by all. If you ever have the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in Romania, make sure to try some of these dishes and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Romanian people.
