The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and of course… delicious meals! However, if you are pregnant, this festive period can also bring some challenges when navigating the world of holiday foods and drinks. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the magic of the season while keeping you and your baby safe. Here’s a guide to pregnancy-safe festive dining, along with some delightful recipes to try.
Navigating holiday meals during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time when you need to be extra mindful of what you eat, as certain foods can pose risks to you and your baby. The holiday table, with its rich variety of dishes, often includes some that should be avoided.
Festive food to be cautious about:
- Soft cheeses: Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like Brie or Camembert, as they may carry harmful bacteria.
- Raw or undercooked meats: Stay clear of rare meats and dishes like carpaccio.
- Seafood risks: Skip raw or smoked fish, like sushi or lox, and opt for cooked seafood instead.
- Homemade eggnog: Traditional recipes often use raw eggs, which can pose a risk of salmonella.
Pregnancy-safe holiday meals:
- Roast turkey or chicken: Fully cooked poultry makes a hearty and safe choice.
- Vegetable dishes: Roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, and green bean casseroles are delicious and nutritious.
- Pasteurized cheeses: Enjoy cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella as safe and festive options.
- Desserts: Fruit-based desserts or those made without raw eggs or alcohol, such as baked apple pie, are great choices.
Delicious festive recipes for expecting moms
If you or someone in your family is pregnant during these holidays and you still need some inspiration for a delicious dessert or a festive aperitif, we have you covered:
➕ 1. Apple cinnamon cake with glaze (Pregnancy-safe dessert)
A warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for the holidays!
Ingredients:
- 300g flour
- 2 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. cinnamon
- ground ginger and cardamom, or other spices of your choice
- 1 tbs. cocoa powder
- 200g soft butter
- 100g white sugar
- 75g brown sugar
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- 125ml milk
- 1 big apple
For the cinnamon glaze:
- 1 tbs. sour cream
- powdered sugar (depending on consistency keep adding gradually)
- 1/4 tsp. cinnamon
Instructions:
Loaf Pan (25cm Length):
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (top/bottom heat). Grease a 25cm loaf pan with soft butter and dust evenly with flour, tapping out excess. Alternatively, use parchment paper.
- Mix flour, baking powder, salt, spices, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
- Cream soft butter and both sugars with a stand mixer or hand mixer for several minutes until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. If the batter curdles, add a bit of the pre-measured flour.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk in two parts, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
- Dice the apple into 1cm cubes and fold into the batter. Transfer to the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake on the middle rack for 55–60 minutes. Test doneness with a skewer.
- Let the cake cool briefly, then remove from the pan and cool completely.
For the Cinnamon Glaze:
Whisk sour cream until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until thick, then stir in cinnamon. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
➕ 2. Cranberry sparkler (Pregnancy-safe aperitif)
This festive mocktail is refreshing and completely safe for pregnancy.
Ingredients for 4 glasses:
- 320ml cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 750ml sparkling water
- 40ml lemon juice
- 40ml Elderflower syrup
- Fresh mint or a sprig of rosemary for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a tall glass, combine the cranberry juice, lemon juice and elderflower syrup.
- Add ice cubes and top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with fresh mint or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
- Stir gently and enjoy a toast to the season!
Tips for enjoying the holidays while pregnant
So sum up here what to consider if you are pregnant during the holidays!
- Plan ahead: If you’re attending a holiday gathering, check with the host in advance what foods will be served and, if needed, bring, for example, a pregnancy-safe dessert.
- Stay hydrated: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink water. Mocktails and sparkling water with a splash of juice can help keep you hydrated.
- Indulge in moderation: It’s okay to enjoy a small portion of your favorite treats, as long as they are safe.
Savour the magic of the festive season
The festive season is a time for sharing good times, making memories and celebrating life in all its sweetness. By following these tips, you can enjoy your festive meals with peace of mind, without giving up your sweet tooth. The important thing is to listen to yourself, take care of yourself and make the most of this unique time.
Happy holidays and bon appétit!
