Because everybody looks forward to "mum's cooking", Christmas dinner is a treat for the family but something of a challenge even for the most experienced cook. And it simply isn't Christmas without special meat treats as the focus of festive dinners. Although traditional celebration foods inherited from the Northern Hemisphere still remain favourites, barbecues are gaining popularity.
Whole turkeys, chickens and roasts of pork and lamb can be successfully cooked in covered outdoor kitchens. Alternatively, barbecue the vegetable accompaniments while the meat is cocooned in the conventional oven. The cost of many larger meat cuts is prohibitive, and unless it's a large festive family gathering, smaller cuts - dressed attractively - can suffice.
If there are just two of you for Christmas then nothing can beat simple barbecued fillet steaks - forget the roast.
Ham is always a favourite as it's easy to prepare and it's tasty. There are many sizes available - for two to four people or larger ones to feed 20-plus. Don't forget a special vegetable dish for those who don't appreciate meat. Layer baked pumpkin and steamed spinach in a loaf pan, cover with well-seasoned beaten eggs and bake.
This is also a great accompaniment for beef. Or serve an old-fashioned cheese and onion pudding that is also excellent with poultry. Stuff courgettes with a cheesy risotto or slow cook a vegetable tagine. A mix of vegetables marinated in olive oil and herbs is also excellent when barbecued. They could be served topped with fresh mozzarella.
