Orthodox Christmas (the Serbian way)

Christmas in our household has always been a huge celebration. It had nothing to do with gifts but everything to do with tradition. Whenever I think back to past Christmases, I remember my mom always staying up late and waking up early to ensure Christmas was perfect. The house smelling like sarma, pecenje (roasted pig) and fresh bread with Serbian music playing in the background. It is such a beautiful thing when you have certain memories that bring back a flood of happiness and comfort. As I’ve gotten older and have started a family of my own, preserving the Serbian traditions and creating this special happiness, has become my life’s goal.

For background information on the following, please use the links:

• Christmas on January 7th:  

  • https://balkaninsight.com/2017/01/06/christmas-in-serbia-a-beginner-s-guide-01-06-2017/

• Christmas morning:

  •  https://balkaninsight.com/2014/01/06/celebrate-christmas-serbian-style/

• Christmas traditions : 

  • https://www.thespruceeats.com/serbian-christmas-traditions-1135801

Below you can find our Christmas menu as well as on our Instagram page along with how to videos - dishingwiththedawouds:

• Sarma aka Brined cabbage rolls filled with ground pork and rice

  You‘ll need:

  • Brined cabbage (if you can’t make it, you can check out your local Balkan store)

  • 1-5lbs of ground pork or beef or half of both (depends on how much you make)

  • 1 bag of rice

  • 1 large onion

  • Paprika, salt, parsley (dry or fresh), pepper, turmeric (optional)

• Pig roast

  You’ll need:

  • Roaster or oven

  • 20-50lb whole pig

  • Salt, Vegeta, oil

  • 3-4 hours of your time

• Christmas bread

  You’ll need:

  • 5-6 cups of flour

  • Salt, sugar, yeast

  • Sanitized coin