If it's your turn to host the annual family Christmas gathering, we're sure you're feeling excited (and maybe a little nervous)! There's something special about creating a holiday experience that's both delicious and memorable. For seasoned hosts, it's the perfect chance to get creative and raise the bar for festive celebrations. If you're new to the hosting game though, don't worry - there's no need to stress!

One of the best parts of the festive season is the food. Or, more accurately, an abundant amount of delicious treats and meals that you wouldn't usually indulge in - but that's what it's all about! Forget the usual rules - this is all about indulgence and joy! With the right ingredients, techniques, and, of course, the perfect tools, you'll be able to whip up meals that will delight your guests and leave them asking if you'd like to host again next year. First, though, you need the right tools, and our guide is here to help you get exactly what you need for the perfect festive feast!

A show stopping turkey

Everyone’s heard the horror stories of dry, overcooked turkey, but with the right techniques, you can avoid that fate and serve up a juicy, tender bird that will steal the show this Christmas. First, brine your turkey overnight to lock in moisture - this simple step makes all the difference. When it comes time to cook, roast it at a lower temperature to keep it tender, and don’t forget to baste it regularly to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful. This means starting early and being tied to the kitchen for a while, but it will be worth it!

Once your turkey is cooked to perfection, it’s time to carve like a chef. The turkey is the star of the meal, so you’ll want to make sure it’s served beautifully. Use a quality carving kit like the Icel 2-piece carving set to cut through the skin and flesh around the thighs and wings, then gently pull the joints apart until you hear that satisfying pop. Then, slice into the breast to ensure every juicy, tender piece is served up to your guests and leave everyone at the table talking about how amazing it turned out!

Keep your knives on the cutting edge

A knife sharpener is an absolute must-have tool for Christmas cooking. When you’re spending long hours in the kitchen preparing festive meals, your knife is right there with you, working hard with every chop and slice. Over time, that constant use causes the blade to dull, making it harder to easily cut through ingredients. To keep your cooking swift, enjoyable, and safe, you’ll want to sharpen your knife every now and then. A sharp knife is not only more efficient but also safer, as it’s less likely to slip and cause injury. Plus, it’s a perfect early Christmas gift for yourself!

At Butchers Equipment Warehouse, our sharpening steels come from trusted brands like Victorinox, Isler, F.Dick, and Fischer Bargoin. With options in diamond, ceramic, and natural stone, our steels are built to tackle the toughest blades, even at Christmas.

Make vegetable prep easier than ever

It wouldn't be a Christmas dinner without veg! From hearty potatoes and carrots to delicate sprouts and parsnips, preparing all these different veggies requires a reliable set of tools to get the job done quickly and efficiently. A set of knives like this professional quality Giesser 3 piece starter pack is going to be perfect for effortlessly slicing through everything from root vegetables to more tender greens. But it's not just about your knives; using a quality surface is essential when it comes to your prep going smoothly.

You definitely don't want to risk damaging your countertops or slipping while chopping on a slippery surface - especially with all the hustle and bustle just before Christmas. That's where a wooden chopping board comes in. Made from durable timber, it provides a safe and stable surface, protecting both your knives and your worktops. Plus, it's the perfect kitchen companion to see you through all your festive cooking, ensuring you can slice, chop, and prep with confidence!

At Butchers Equipment Warehouse, we’re proud to offer professional, reliable tools that will impress anyone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen this Christmas, whether you’re a seasoned host or just getting into festive cooking. From our chef's knives to chopping boards and beyond, If you need any advice or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team at 01254 427721 – we’re always here to help!