CHRISTMAS FOOD AND DRINK ON A BUDGET

Christmas Dinner

The most-anticipated meal of the year for most families is Christmas Dinner and the star of the show is undoubtedly the turkey. Don't miss out. Order your turkey in advance or, for convenience and economy buy turkey joints when you see them on offer and freeze them. As usual, look out for special offers. Many supermarkets bundle their festive items so if you buy a few together you will get a good discount or a freebie.

 

Turkey (see www.britishturkey.co.uk) Sage and Onion Stuffing Sausages in Bacon Roast Potatoes Parsnips Brussels sprouts Carrots Cranberry Sauce Bread Sauce Christmas Pudding

Sweet Treats and Nibbles

Take a look at the list below. How many of the items on it do you really enjoy? Chances are there will be a few which don't float your boat - right? The same will be true for others. If you can only think of one family member who enjoys mince pies, cross them off your list. Fruit cake, stilton and dates can be equally short on takers. If this is the case, substitute less pungent cheeses for Stilton, visit a local Middle Eastern supermarket (if you are fortunate enough to have one) for your dates and dried fruits. You will find them less expensive.

• Mince Pies and Brandy Butter
• Christmas cake
• Stilton
• Dates
• Walnuts
• Chestnuts
• Tangerines
• Chocolates
• Yule Log

Alcohol

Although many consider alcohol to be an essential item at Christmas, others will have no need for it. Lucky them(!) because alcohol can take a big bite out of your festive budget.

We find ourselves in the supermarket every week during the year, so be ever-vigilant and notice when they are holding promotions. Champagne, for example, is fiercely promoted in the run up to Valentine's day and New Year's Eve. You can find half-price bargains if you are lucky. For wine, look out for online promotions/deals on cases and scan the back of weekend magazines for introductory offers. Supermarket own-brands can be substituted for the big brand spirits. If you make cocktails, guests will never know the difference.

Remember, as alcohol is non-perishable, you have all year to stock up for Christmas.

Port Champagne Red Wine Mulled Wine Spices Beer Whisky Brandy Gin Sherry

Decorations, Cards and Wrapping

Christmas cards, wrapping paper and Christmas crackers should always be bought in the sales immediately after Christmas. The only alternative is to make your own. Better still, get the children to make them. This will always make a card more special. 

• Christmas Cards
• Wrapping paper
• Sellotape
• Christmas Tree
• Tree decorations
• Fairy Lights
• Christmas Crackers