Creed Foodservice has carefully curated this year’s Christmas range to ensure festive food favourites, together with all the trimmings, deliver the ‘WOW’ factor for consumers looking to treat themselves, whilst keeping price in mind.
Lots of Christmas classics are set to appear on menus as diners look to traditional dishes that are comforting and familiar, whilst global influences will play their part too – with flavours from afar finding their way to the festive table.
Rob Owen, executive development chef at Creed, commented: “We’re acutely aware of the challenges many of our customers are facing when it comes to prices going up across the board and struggles with staffing, which is why we’re working harder than ever to provide solutions that deliver on experience, cost and convenience too.
“We’ve got an incredible range of festive products this year, that we really believe give diners the experience they are looking for – whether that be traditional or something new – whilst also providing operators with solutions which are viable when it comes to margins.”
Starters that dazzle
The first course is arguably the most important – it sets the tone for the meal, and is a chance to really get the festivities going. Small plates are a great way to encourage diners to enjoy a range of flavours that can be mixed and matched from a wider menu. Offering three small/micro plates for a set price encourages diners to go that little bit further with their budgets when sharing with others – giving a sense of added value.
For the traditionalists, dishes such as prawn cocktail, pan-fried scallops and baked camembert look set to grace the table once again. Whilst for those looking for something a little different, Lemon & Chilli Prawns make for a fresh and satisfying first bite, Mozzarella Pockets give a sense of pure indulgence and Salt and Pepper Squid delivers on the texture front!
Mains that ‘WOW’
Whilst generally consumers are becoming increasingly adventurous, the turmoil that has ensued over the last few years in the dining out space – caused by Covid – has meant many are looking to nostalgic classics to get their kicks.
Traditional roast dinners with all the trimmings certainly aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, and Creed Family Butchers have pulled out all the stops to bring the very best selection of cuts to the table. A favourite being a boneless Butterfly Turkey Lobe – tied up and ready for roasting and easy carving, which keeps things simple in the kitchen when time isn’t on your side.
For those looking for something less traditional, decadent Christmas Burgers with indulgent optional toppings like Melted Brie, Pigs in Blankets and Cranberry Sauce, offer the chance for incremental sales. Create a base burger dish for a standardised price, but offer mouth-watering ‘add-ons’ to drive spend.
Desserts to die for
Finish on a high note and end the festive meal with an array of decadent desserts, to ensure diners that are seeking an indulgent finale walk away truly contented.
Classics this year will include vamped-up Trifles which can be made all-the-more special by adding extra decoration such as curls of tempered chocolate and fresh fruit, and Crème Brûlée – with that iconic crunchy top. For those looking for added pudding pizzazz, Asian-inspired Miso Caramel Profiteroles are bound to hit the spot, with that delightful combination of savoury and sweet.
For cost-conscious consumers, who are looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with a mini-treat, hand-finished donuts provide an opportunity to make the most of a low-cost base item turned into something really special with the loaded fillings and toppings, such as festive spiced custards and conserves, and colourful Christmas themed icing, edible glitter and pre-made decorations.
Afters and Extras
If there’s room, cheese is always a good idea and offers an alternative for diners who prefer savoury over sweet. Instead of stocking up on lots of varieties, choose three cheeses that are going to prove popular with punters and stick to these to avoid unnecessary waste.
Creed favourites include a Cheddar and Port Wheel and a Dairy and Blue Cheshire both from Carron Lodge. Adding a novelty cheese to menus may encourage impulse purchases, and what better than a Chocolate Orange Cheese to add interest and excitement.
Festive drinks are great for delivering high margins, which is why Creed have created a selection of easy-to-make recipes to help operators add some festive magic to their menus this year. From Black Forest Hot Chocolate with cherry syrup and whipped cream, right through to a Christmas Pudding Latte and Butterscotch Steamers, which feature flavours of caramel and cinnamon.
For tips and advice, as well as serving suggestions download Creed’s festive Christmas brochure here.