How to make the Thirteen Desserts: French Christmas dessert
The Thirteen Desserts is one of the best-known desserts of French gastronomy during Christmas. It is tradition that during the Christmas Eve dinner the Thirteen Desserts are served, in reference to Jesus of Nazareth with the twelve apostles.
As its name suggests, a total of thirteen desserts are served, although depending on the region this figure may vary.
Origin of the Thirteen Desserts
The origin of this tradition dates from the beginning of the 20th century. Although there is no writing that determines this, experts agree that the origin of the Thirteen Desserts is several Centuries before. This dessert began to be served at the tables of the families in the French Provence; It was customary to prepare them with local products and take them right after the Misa del Gallo as a celebration.
Each family can choose those desserts that best suit their preferences. However, there are three that can not be missed. On the one hand, I gibbe it, a flour and olive oil biscuit with a slight aroma of orange blossom.
On the other hand, black and white nougat, made with nuts and fresh fruits. And finally, the four beggars, a dessert that refers to the four great orders of the monks: Carmelites, Dominicans, Augustinians and Franciscans.
How to prepare the Thirteen Desserts
These Thirteen Desserts can be divided into four categories.
- Pastry: Among the cakes, the most important is the oil pump, also known as fougasse. It is made with flour, olive oil, orange blossom water and sugar. In addition, there are almond crisps, orejotas and pine nut cakes in this group. Real delights for the palate.
- Sweets: taking into account that they are typical desserts of Christmas, in the category of sweets, the most important is the nougat. One of the most appreciated varieties is the black nougat with honey and almonds from Provence. Also the white nougat with almonds. Beyond the nougat, the quince pâté is another well-known and valued dessert. In addition, other candies such as candied melon or watermelon jam.
- Nuts: the most famous dessert of the 13 French Christmas Desserts are the four beggars: grape, fig, almond and hazelnut.
- Fresh fruits: and, finally, fresh fruits: apples, winter pears, oranges, tangerines and dates.
Although they can be accompanied with any drink, the most common is that the desserts are accompanied by hot wine, in reference to the wine of Christ.
The way to serve the Thirteen Desserts on the table is also very special. They are placed on the table with three white tablecloths superimposed three candlesticks with white candles and the wheat of Santa Barbara in water.
The Thirteen Desserts is a great option to end an exquisite Christmas Eve dinner. In addition, by serving several desserts, it is easier for them to conform to the tastes of all guests. Although it has its origin in France, the truth is that it is a tradition that has become very popular worldwide because of its marked religious character.
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