How to Enjoy an Italian Christmas

Embrace the beginnings

Between 1880 and 1920 around four million Italians arrived in the US. Since the total population of Italy was only fourteen million this was some investment by a nation with much to offer. Of course there were hard times, Ellis Island was known as Isola della Lacrime, the Isle of Tears, but those early arrivals became known for their hard work and sobriety. The ‘Little Italys’ set up in major cities gradually expanded and prospered. Families merged into the mainstream and today two thirds of Italian Americans are successful in professions like medicine, education and the law, alongside more high profile stars of showbusiness, Hollywood and TV. Start your Christmas by raising a glass to those adventurous and tough ancestors who laid the foundations.

The Family

Even in the exaggerated gangster epics that Hollywood favours, there is one characteristic that rings true. This is the gathering, the whole family dining and sharing as one. Stories are told, old ones remembered, young ones celebrated. There is feasting and singing – it’s an Italian Christmas!

The toast

Has to be Buon Natale, Buona Salute. Toast each other with a fine, dry Prosecco. Or if you prefer a sweeter wine try Moscato d’Asti. For drinking throughout the meal select a Chianti, robust red wine from Tuscany. Go for a Classico. For many beer drinkers it has to be Perroni.

1st Course

Frugality is a quality early Italian immigrants needed to survive. So why not carry on the tradition – especially when you can combine it with a superb appetiser. That’s Crostini alle Olive Nere, otherwise known as the Poor Man’s Caviar. It combines zucchini with black olives. Blend together with hot pepper, capers and salt. Simply spread on baguette and serve.

2nd  – Pasta Fagioli with Panzerotti

Following the Roman Catholic tradition, Christmas Day would be non-meat occasion. This pasta is a simple peasant dish but all the tastier for that. Made with cannellini beans, and a base of olives, garlic, minced onion, spices, with tomatoes or tomato paste. In Sicily you would pronounce it vazul -  and cibo gustoso!

Panzerotti are pockets of pizza dough filled with tomatoes and mozzarella, then deep fried. Delicious just like that or you could add ham.