We're officially counting down to Christmas. And with less than a week to go, the tree should already be up, gifts are all wrapped and its finally time to begin enjoying the exciting run-up to the big day. Well, we mean, unless you are playing host this Christmas, then the anxiety of presenting the perfectly bronzed Christmas turkey will loom. Notoriously hard to cook, and notoriously easy to serve dry, cooking a turkey can be an anxiety-provoking tradition for most. So why not save yourself the stress and ditch the traditional turkey this year? Here's Esquire Singapore's guide on where to buy the best turkey alternatives in Singapore.
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza — Roast Lamb Leg
Looking for a showstopper this Christmas Day? The rosemary and garlic roast lamb leg topped with Argentinian chimichurri, artichokes and capers from Singapore Marriott is unbeatable. This is a uniquely fresh take on a Christmas dinner and is sure-fire main to make up for the endless years of disappointing turkey. The tasty Roast Lamb Leg is delivered cooked, so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
Roast Lamb Leg from Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza. SGD188.
Ryan's Grocery — Vegetable & Cashew Nut Roast
If you’ve already spent hours curating the perfect Christmas menu—from the homemade sausage-meat stuffing to the brilliantly bronzed turkey—only to learn the appearance of an unexpected vegan guest. Don't panic. Pick up the Ryan's Grocery Country Vegetable & Cashew Nut Roast, which is a great meat alternative or side dish to serve alongside your Christmas Dinner. Not only is this nut roast delicious, but it is a higher protein alternative and easy to prepare. You'll guarantee to impress the meat-free lot.
Vegetable & cashew nut roast from Ryan's Grocery. SGD6.90.
The Swiss Butchery — Traditional Honey Baked Ham
Although a must-have on a Christmas dinner and delicious if cooked correctly, turkey is notoriously difficult to prepare. We've all been there, endlessly tackling a turkey, only to carve and end up with a dry, disappointing fowl. Why not save yourself the hassle this festive season and select a honey baked ham from the Swiss Butchery instead. Definitely an easier—and seriously tasty—festive favourite to prep. The brand also promises highest quality and freshness for your guests.
Traditional honey baked ham from The Swiss Butchery, SGD48.
Tablescape Restaurant — Oven-Baked Line Caught Fish
If you are planning something unconventional, why not serve fish instead of red meat? A great option if you are looking for a healthy low-fat, low-calorie dish. This could also add some much-needed lightness, to an often heavy meal. Our favourite is the oven-baked line-caught fish from Tablescape Restaurant and Bar. Delicately cooked in traditional Italian, Acqua Pazza style, its flavour profiles are further enhanced with cherry tomatoes, black olives, capers and white wine. Delivered perfectly cooked, it may be low maintenance, but definitely ever-impressive centrepiece for Christmas Day.
Oven-baked line-caught fish from Tablescape Restaurant. SGD168.
Pacific Marketplace — Australian Wagyu Beef
Whether you are looking for another dish to complete your extensive holiday menu or just bored of the bird, roast beef is another guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you want to seriously impress your folks, try the roasted Australian wagyu beef strip-loin from Pacific Marketplace. Although slightly pricier compared to the traditional turkey, red meat has more bite for sure. And it's surely superior to slow-roasted Australian beef ribeye. A tender and juicy option, this is a perfect way to break the turkey tradition.
Roasted Australian wagyu beef striploin from Pacific Marketplace SGD488.