Diabetic Friendly Christmas Brunch

As Christmas approaches, I find myself excited and filled with joy. There’s something magical about this time of year—especially when I think of the plans I have for my husband, Lana (our playful pup), and me. Even though I’m working a night shift this Christmas, I’m determined to prepare a lunch and dinner that is not only festive but also fits our lifestyle—diabetic-friendly and light yet full of flavor.

It’s been a busy few weeks leading up to Christmas, and as I plan our meals, I keep in mind that I want the day to feel special without overwhelming myself with too much time in the kitchen. The last thing I want is to be stuck slaving away in the heat, especially when South Africa’s summer weather is perfect for a more laid-back, braai-style Christmas. So, I made things easier by stuffing the oven with an hour or two of baking and roasting, creating that warm, festive feeling without all the fuss.

Here’s a sneak peek at the delicious menu I’ve created—a balance of hearty and light dishes that will keep the festive spirit alive without compromising on taste or health.

Oven-Roasted Gammon with a Tangy Citrus Glaze This year, I wanted to create a Christmas meal with all the festive flavors, without the heaviness of traditional dishes. A beautiful oven-roasted gammon glazed with a citrus mix of orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey (or a sugar substitute like Stevia) will be the star of the meal. I’ll baste it regularly to ensure it’s tender and juicy. The tangy glaze will add that perfect balance of sweetness and acidity to make it feel like Christmas.

Grilled Summer Veggies (Braai Style) Instead of a heavy carb-based side dish, I’m opting for grilled vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms will be drizzled with olive oil, garlic, and fresh thyme, then grilled to perfection. These veggies will have a smoky, charred flavor from the braai, and they’ll pair beautifully with the gammon. Light, vibrant, and packed with nutrients.

Cauliflower & Herb Mash A healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash will be creamy and satisfying without all the carbs. I’ll blend steamed cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, finishing it off with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It’s the perfect side dish to complement the gammon and grilled veggies.

Enjoy yours G xxx

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