HO HO HO… Merry Christmas-in-July!

It’s that time of the year where us Aussies take it upon ourselves to celebrate Christmas in July in order to experience what Christmas feels like during colder weather like our European friends. 

We think this is the perfect time for foodies to show off their festive culinary skills, and (if lockdown permits) get the family together to share an unforgettable meal. 

We’ve done all the hard work, and picked out the ideal Christmas in July menu so you can throw on your apron, and channel your inner Manu Feildel …or Gordon Ramsay if that’s more your style. 

VIVE Christmas in July Menu 

Something to nibble on….

Tempura Mushroom

Tempura Mushrooms

This little palette teaser is a great way to start off with a quick and easy dish to graze on. We guarantee your family will be impressed when you swap out the chips and dips for this bad boy.

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Cooking level – Easy

Starter

Burrata, Fennel Jam, EVOO By Jacqui Challinor 02

Burrata, Fennel Jam, Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

Nomad Head Chef Jacqui Challinor has generously created this recipe to showcase some of Australia’s best local produce. Once again, this is an easy recipe that will provide your family with a restaurant quality dish that will almost certainly make them forget they aren’t in a swanky Surry Hills restaurant. 

Cooking time: < 10 mins
Cooking Level – Easy 

P.S. This dish is all about the quality of ingredients you use – check out Vanella for the best burrata, and our good friends at ALTO for quality olive oil and vinegar products. 

Main

La Bouillabaisse

La Bouillabaisse

AKA A fancy fish stew guaranteed to make you feel like a hatted chef once you whip up this main course!

Aussies love eating seafood at Christmas so this is the perfect combination of keeping traditions alive by creating a warm, comforting seafood dish to wow your household. Take your family or housemates on a culinary journey through Provence by adding this dish to your Christmas in July menu!

Cooking time: 1-1.5 Hours

Cooking Level – Easy

Dessert 

Vive Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake

Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake

Just when you think you couldn’t possibly impress your family even more… this 6-ingredient decadent mousse cake will finish off your menu by leaving a lasting impression. Some have described their tastebuds as going to Epicurean heaven when trying a slice of this dessert but don’t take our word for it… try it out for yourself!

Cooking time: 1-1.5 Hours

Cooking Level – Easy/ Med

We love seeing your creations, so if you’re getting social with your Christmas in July menu, please tag us @vivecookingschool, and we’ll reshare your masterpieces. 

If you love our recipes, and are keen to get more confident cooking amazing dishes like the ones listed on this menu, check out our Sydney Cooking School based in Rosebery for upcoming classes. We also have cooking class gift cards which are perfect for your foodie friends if they have a special occasion coming up!