How to substitute the most expensive ingredients for Christmas dinner?

Read in EnglishYear after year, millions of Christmas dinners are prepared in Mexico on December 24th. Although each family has different tastes or flavors, Christmas usually brings delicacies such as turkey, loin, leg, pork ribs, romeritos, bacalao, lasagna, pastas, salads, carlotas, and more, but if the economic outlook continues to look difficult, this year could be very different for Mexicans.In recent months, Mexicans have experienced inflation which has resulted in price increases across all sectors, especially in the basic basket and in other food and drinks, making it seem quite challenging to prepare the typical Christmas dinner this 2022. However, at kiwilimón, we thought of ways to prepare a family Christmas dinner without spending a fortune.So this holiday season and amid inflation, we give you the best tips from #KiwiAhorroNavideño to save when organizing a Mexican Christmas dinner, from main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks. Also, remember that the most important thing is to enjoy a pleasant time with the whole family and not spend a fortune.You can also read: Prepare your Christmas dinner in less than 20 minutesHow to save on Christmas food? If you want to save when preparing your Christmas dinner, don’t worry, because we have very useful tips for you, take note!1. Anticipation is key Make a menu, create a list of what you already have at home and one of what you need to buy, as this will help you only purchase what is truly necessary and avoid overspending.2. Compare prices It is essential to compare the prices of the basic basket and the ingredients you need to prepare your Christmas dinner. It will be even better if you compare prices at markets, street vendors, supermarkets, and delivery services.3. Take advantage of offers If you go to the supermarket and find that a non-perishable ingredient is on sale, don't hesitate to buy it, because as long as it doesn't expire, you can store it in the pantry or freezer for a couple of weeks.4. Set a budget Before going shopping, set a budget, as this way it will be much easier not to overspend.5. Make the most of your gadgets Considering that many of the dishes we prepare to celebrate Christmas are cooked in the oven and increase gas consumption, another good way to save is during the process. For example, instead of baking potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and other vegetables, cook them in water for about 15 minutes, then season and finish cooking in the air fryer or toaster oven, they will turn out delicious and you won’t spend as much gas!You can also read: How to use cider for reheatingHow to replace the most expensive ingredients? We know that classic dishes and Christmas desserts cannot be easily replaced, but if you really want to save during this time of year, then you can't miss these practical tips, they will get you out of any bind!1. Turkey Don't spend a fortune and opt for a whole chicken or breast and thighs. The best part is that you can prepare the chicken in many ways, so it will taste just as good but at a much lower price.2. Bacalao Bacalao a la vizcaína, one of the most emblematic dishes of Mexican Christmas dinners, is prepared with garlic, onion, tomato, olives, capers, yellow chiles, cambray potatoes, parsley, olive oil, and almond or pine nuts.Since the list of ingredients is quite extensive, this Christmas classic can turn out to be the most expensive dish of the entire dinner, so you can replace it with canned tuna, tilapia, or tilapia fillet. Remember that if you season it very well, it will taste just as delicious.3. Nuts and almonds We know that walnuts and almonds add an extra touch of flavor to turkey or loin fillings, as well as to Christmas salads and other desserts. However, 200 grams of almonds can cost up to $79, while the same amount of peanuts, sunflower seeds, and sesame can cost half or less. Moreover, sunflower seeds and sesame also add a lot of flavor and nutrients to your diet. On the other hand, remember to add plenty of spices and season all your dishes to perfection.4. Fresh fruits If you plan to prepare a creamy mango or peach carlota, it’s better to buy these fruits in syrup, as they are more economical in this presentation. Additionally, you can also take advantage of seasonal fruits to prepare salads and desserts for your dinner:GuavaJicamaTangerineOrangeBananaGrapefruit5. Wines We know that Christmas is a very special time, as families and friends gather to enjoy an exquisite dinner and toast with good wine, but if you want to save, it’s better to opt for a 100% Mexican cider, a punch with a kick, or even some aguas locas.Now that you know these tips from #KiwiAhorroNavideño, you can enjoy your all-time favorites at a lower price. We hope that inflation eases and everyone spends a Christmas in the company of their loved ones with the best dishes and drinks!You can also read: Christmas cuisine around the world