Delicious Recipes for Your Christmas Leftovers

Christmas is a time of culinary abundance, which can often mean an overflowing fridge the next day. Instead of letting all those less-desired trimmings go to waste, why not transform them into delicious meals to enjoy in the days that follow? In this article, we share some creative and simple recipes to make the most of your Christmas leftovers without boring the palate!

Turkey and Stuffing Pie

A hearty pie is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey and stuffing. This recipe is comforting, flavourful, and ideal for sharing.

Ingredients:

• Leftover turkey, shredded
• Leftover stuffing
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp plain flour
• 250ml chicken or turkey stock
• 100ml double cream
• Ready-made puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/gas mark 6).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add the shredded turkey and stuffing, then stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add the stock, stirring continuously until a thick sauce forms.
5. Stir in the cream and season to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a pie dish, top with puff pastry, and brush with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Brussels Sprouts Bubble and Squeak

Bubble and squeak is a classic British dish that turns leftover vegetables into a crispy, golden delight. Perfect for Boxing Day brunch.

Ingredients:

• Leftover Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, and any other vegetables
• 1 tbsp butter or oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Roughly chop the Brussels sprouts and other vegetables.
2. Mix them with the mashed potatoes, seasoning well.
3. Heat the butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
4. Add the vegetable mixture and press it down to form a flat cake.
5. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until crisp and golden.
6. Serve with a fried egg on top for a satisfying meal.

Christmas Leftovers Soup

Turn your leftover turkey, ham, and vegetables into a comforting soup. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to use whatever you have.

Ingredients:

• Leftover turkey or ham, diced
• Leftover roasted vegetables (carrots, parsnips, etc.)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock
• 100ml cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot and sauté the onion until soft.
2. Add the diced turkey or ham and roasted vegetables.
3. Pour in the stock and bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Use a hand blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. Stir in the cream if desired and season to taste.
6. Serve with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.

Cranberry Sauce and Brie Toasties

These indulgent toasties are a quick and delicious way to use up cranberry sauce and any leftover cheese.

Ingredients:

• Leftover cranberry sauce
• Brie or Camembert, sliced
• Sourdough or crusty bread
• Butter, softened

Method:

1. Spread cranberry sauce on one side of a bread slice and layer with brie.
2. Top with another slice of bread and butter on the outside of both slices.
3. Heat a frying pan over medium heat and toast the sandwich until golden on both sides and the cheese is melted.
4. Slice and serve warm.

Christmas Pudding Ice Cream

Turn leftover Christmas pudding into a festive ice cream for a sweet treat.

Ingredients:

• Leftover Christmas pudding, crumbled
• 500ml vanilla ice cream (softened)
• 50ml brandy or rum (optional)

Method:

1. Mix the crumbled Christmas pudding with the softened ice cream and brandy or rum if using.
2. Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
3. Serve scooped into bowls with a drizzle of cream or chocolate sauce.

Tips for Managing Leftovers

• Store Safely: Ensure leftovers are cooled quickly and stored in airtight containers in the fridge. Consume within 2-3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Many Christmas leftovers, like turkey and stuffing, freeze well. Portion them out for quick meals later.
• Plan Ahead: Think about how you can repurpose leftovers before the big day to minimise waste.

With these recipes, your Christmas leftovers can be just as enjoyable as the main event. Happy cooking!