Christmas Eve is the most significant part of our celebration, and everything begins with preparing the table. It’s a tradition to serve twelve dishes, representing the twelve apostles. Each dish is meat- and dairy-free, as we honor the fasting period leading up to Christmas.

My favorites include: kutia - a sweet dish made with wheat berries, honey, poppy seeds, and sometimes nuts or raisins. It’s the first dish we taste, symbolizing prosperity and unity. Varenyky - dumplings filled with potato, sauerkraut, or mushrooms - simple but so comforting. Uzvar - A dried fruit compote that smells like home. ☕️
Every dish is prepared with love, and we work together in the kitchen, laughing and sharing stories. 🥰 This moment always reminds me how much family means to me.

What about you? Do you have special traditions during the holidays? I’d love to hear how you celebrate this magical time of year. Maybe next year, we can share a tradition or two together. 🌟❤️