The festive season is a time for celebration around the world, where food takes centre stage.
If you’re a fast food delivery driver working long hours during the Christmas rush, you’re not alone! Around the globe, hundreds of thousands of drivers just like you are delivering tasty treats to customers. From Japan to Mexico, here are some global festive favourites, including a bit of their history, how they’re eaten, and links to recipes if you fancy trying them yourself!
Japan: KFC for Christmas
While turkey or ham may be traditional in other countries, in Japan, KFC has become the ultimate Christmas feast. It all began in the 1970s when a clever marketing campaign promoted "Kentucky for Christmas" as the perfect substitute for a Western-style holiday dinner. Now, millions of Japanese families pre-order their Christmas buckets months in advance. The festive set often includes fried chicken, cake, and wine.
How to Eat It: Family-style, shared around the table—crispy, golden, and finger-lickin' good!
Try It: Grab your own KFC or recreate the crispy chicken at home with this homemade recipe.
Mexico and Costa Rica: Tamales
In Mexico and Costa Rica, tamales are a beloved holiday tradition. Wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks, tamales are made from masa (corn dough) and filled with savoury ingredients like pork, chicken, or beans. Preparing tamales is a family affair, often called a "tamalada," where everyone gathers to make and enjoy these treats.
Regional Differences: In Mexico, fillings vary by region—from spicy mole to sweet versions filled with raisins. Costa Rican tamales tend to include rice, vegetables, and pork.
How to Eat It: Unwrap, savour, and enjoy with salsa or hot sauce.
Try It: Create your own tamales with this authentic recipe.
Bulgaria: Kolivo (Kolivo коливо)
Kolivo is a symbolic Bulgarian and Greek dish served on Christmas Eve and other important religious occasions. This sweet dish is made from boiled wheat, honey, nuts, and dried fruit. It dates back to ancient Orthodox traditions, where it was prepared to honour loved ones and celebrate new beginnings.
How to Eat It: Served cold as part of a ceremonial family dinner.
Try It: Check out this simple Kolivo recipe.
Philippines: Lechon and Hamon (Roast Pig)
In the Philippines, Lechon (whole roast pig) is the ultimate holiday centrepiece. Its origins trace back to Spanish colonial times, and it has since become a traditional Christmas celebration. The crispy skin and tender meat are often marinated in a mix of spices, herbs, and lemongrass. Additionally, Hamon (Christmas ham) is enjoyed with a sweet pineapple glaze.
How to Eat It: Lechon is carved table-side and shared with rice or sauces like liver gravy.
Try It: Want to attempt a smaller version? Here's a lechon-style pork belly recipe.
Goa, India: Sorpotel
In Goa, Christmas isn’t complete without Sorpotel, a spicy and tangy pork stew with Portuguese roots. Made with vinegar, chilies, and spices, this slow-cooked dish develops deep, complex flavors over time—and it’s often tastier after a day or two!
Regional Twist: Goa’s version leans spicier, while East Indian variants use milder seasoning.
How to Eat It: Pair it with rice, bread, or sannas (Goan steamed rice cakes).
Try It: Whip up this festive dish with this easy-to-follow Sorpotel recipe.
China: Apples on Christmas Eve
In China, apples represent peace and goodwill, making them the perfect Christmas Eve gift. This modern tradition comes from the Chinese word for Christmas Eve, "Ping An Ye," which sounds similar to the word for apple, "Ping Guo." Apples are often beautifully wrapped and decorated as festive treats.
How to Eat It: As a thoughtful snack or a simple holiday dessert.
Try It: Dress up apples with this fun recipe for baked spiced apples.
Final Thoughts for Fast Food Heroes
Delivery drivers are among the unsung heroes of the holidays, keeping families fed and festivities on track. As you make deliveries this season, we hope we’ve introduced you to some different global traditions and flavours bringing people joy. Who knows—maybe one of these dishes will inspire your next homemade meal or takeaway order!
Stay safe, stay warm, and happy holidays!
