The Least Popular Christmas Side Dishes: A Worldwide Disagreement

As the Christmas season approaches, households across the globe gear up for the traditional feast. While turkey takes center stage, something often left unloved are the side dishes. Difficult to find a uniform list of the least adored side dishes among families, preferences can vary widely depending on cultural background and personal tastes. In this article, we explore a few of the most disagreed-over side dishes and offer a glimpse into the dietary preferences of various households.

Unpopular Side Dish 1: Sauerkraut

No, we're not talking about the stringy, often overcooked dish that can make your face contort in disgust. For many families, sauerkraut reigns as the least favorite side dish, often leading to awkward holiday gatherings where everyone tries to maneuver around the serving dish.

Natalie shared her experience: 'Sauerkraut... ew... so gross.' She's not alone; many families rally against this fermented dish, especially those from Central European backgrounds where sauerkraut is more commonly served. Despite this aversion, her eldest daughter manages to find a spot for it on the menu, showcasing the individual tastes that can coexist within a single family.

Brussels Sprouts: A Demon of a Tradition

Brussels sprouts are a divisive favorite for families globally. Despite numerous attempts at cooking methods—from glazing them in honey and balsamic vinegar to preparing them with parmesan and brown butter—some families never convert the sprouts skeptics. Like Natalie, this family struggles with the cultural aspect of cooking such a dish when most family members find it abhorrent.

My Family's Christmas Diners

For many, the side dishes reveal more about personal preferences than cultural norms. For FADE IN. This person shares their unique experiences with side dishes. One of their least favorite is chicken gizzards and hearts (Orpington hearts), which they will never include in their Christmas feast. In contrast, their whole family adores ham, a food that the speaker cannot stand.

Turkey vs. Ham: A Family Favorite

Is it turkey or ham? Families often engage in traditions, like preparing both meats on the Christmas table, as evidenced by the speaker's practice. However, the divide between these two meats can be stark. About 73% of those surveyed by YouGov adore turkey, while 62% prefer ham, underscoring the varied tastes and culinary preferences within families. It’s a tradition that blends heritage with personal preferences.

Around the World: Other Unpopular Side Dishes

Looking at a broader set of preferences from a YouGov survey by Sarah Crow on BestLife, we see diverse dislikes. Here are a few more options that can spark culinary debates during the holiday season:

Fruit Salad: While some enjoy it made with fresh fruit, canned fruit cocktail can be a hit-or-miss choice for many families. Green Bean Casserole: This dish, associated with the canned cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, divides families; about half who participated in the survey felt it was their favorite side dish. Stuffing: A beloved side dish by many, some choose between delicious bread or cornbread versions, while two children in one family cannot stand it. Cranberries: Some prefer the gravies and jelly where others resist the cranberries entirely. Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows: Not everyone's cup of tea, some families find this dessert-like treat overly sweet, while others relish the added indulgence.

Holiday traditions are a blend of cultures, personal preferences, and even individual family quirks. While some may dread certain dishes, these culinary disagreements are a testament to the unique tastes and traditions that define the Christmas feast. As you navigate your own holiday menu, take a moment to consider the diverse tastes within your family and embrace the variety that makes the season so special.

Check out BestLife's comprehensive review of the holiday food survey for more insights and to see how your likes and dislikes compare with others.