Just because the calendar says December, it doesn’t mean every plate has to look the same. Turkey, veg and a lake of gravy have their place (we’ll never argue with a good roast), but Christmas is really about being together and enjoying food that actually excites you.
So when a client got in touch to plan a Christmas party for 60 guests and told us they wanted something a little less traditional, Hog Roast Appledore was fully on board. No raised eyebrows here. In fact, we loved it. After bouncing around a few ideas and chatting through what sort of vibe they were after, the decision was made: our Southern Slow Roast Menu was coming out to play.
This menu is all about comfort without the clichés. It’s hearty, generous and designed so no one’s left picking at a plate wondering what went wrong. Hog Roast Appledore has spent years refining this spread, and it shows. It’s become a firm favourite for good reason – it delivers flavour in every direction and keeps guests coming back for seconds (and thirds, if we’re honest).
We kicked off early doors on the day, arriving while the sky was still doing that gloomy winter thing. As the grills fired up, the smells quickly started doing the talking. Texan-style beef brisket cooked until melt-in-the-mouth tender; Cajun-spiced whole chickens with just the right amount of warmth, and who could forget the sticky Louisiana pork ribs that barely stayed on the bone long enough to serve?
The sides held their own too with guests helping themselves to fresh Greek salad, rich mac and cheese, and a mix of classic and sweet potato fries, all ready to be dressed up with salt, vinegar and sauces. To really dial things up, Hog Roast Appledore laid out three glazes: a smoky-sweet BBQ, a deep hickory bourbon sauce and a fiery hot pepper option for those who like a challenge.
And nobody was left out. Our grilled vegetable kebabs, with optional halloumi and soft flatbreads, made sure veggie and vegan guests felt just as spoiled.
To finish, we kept a nod to Christmas with a chocolate Yule log and fresh cream. Indulgent, nostalgic and very hard to refuse!
The verdict? Big smiles, second helpings and plenty of people admitting they might rethink turkey next year. So, the next time someone asks what you fancy for Christmas dinner, don’t be afraid to say what you really want!
