How to Host a Festive Feast with Black Mountains Smokery Specialities

The holidays are for gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and enjoying good food. But if you’re the host, the thought of cooking a showstopping Christmas meal can feel a little overwhelming. The good news? With a little planning, and the help of Black Mountains Smokery’s artisan specialities, you can turn your table into a feast without the stress.

Starters That Sparkle

Start the celebrations in style with smoked salmon, a timeless festive favourite. Serve in delicate slices with fresh lemon, capers, and sourdough bread for an elegant first course. Or try smoked salmon blinis with a dollop of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of dill for a canapé that pairs beautifully with a glass of fizz.

Mains Made Simple

Hosting doesn’t mean you need to spend hours in the kitchen. Our smoked meats and sides are designed to take the pressure off while still delivering incredible flavour. From Flaky and tender oak roast salmon sides to honey-glazed ham, these centrepieces are effortless to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Pair with seasonal vegetables and golden roast potatoes for a main course that feels both traditional and indulgent.

Sharing Platters & Canapés

Sometimes the most relaxed and memorable festive feasts are those built around grazing and sharing. A smoked meat and fish platter, complete with artisan cheeses, chutneys, and crackers, makes a stunning centrepiece. Add a scattering of festive canapés — smoked chicken crostini, salmon pâté on toast, or skewers of cured meats — and you’ve got a spread that keeps everyone happy while you enjoy the party too.

How to Present a Good Cheese Platter

Mix textures and flavours, from mild smoked cheddar to rich blue cheese. Add accompaniments like artisan chutneys, grapes, bread and crackers.

Perfect Drink Pairings

No feast is complete without the right glass in hand. Light, crisp wines are the ideal match for smoked salmon, while fuller-bodied reds complement smoked meats beautifully. A sparkling English wine or Champagne adds festive sparkle to canapés, while a warming mulled wine is perfect alongside rich sharing platters by the fire.

Stress-Free Hosting, Showstopping Results

Christmas entertaining should be about joy, not worry. By leaning on artisan specialities crafted with care, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating with family and friends. With Black Mountains Smokery’s range of smoked fish, meats, and accompaniments, you’ll have everything you need to host a feast that’s both effortless and unforgettable.

Order everything you need for a showstopping Christmas table