BANTING AND PREPARING FOR THE HOLIDAYS: CHRISTMAS LUNCH, NEW YEAR'S BRAAI AND STRESS FREE SHOPPING IN ADVANCE

 

Banting and Getting Ready for the Holidays: Tackle Christmas Lunch, the New Year's Braai, and Stress-Free Shopping

Every year it happens the same way. One minute I’m still thinking in “normal weeknight dinner” mode, and the next thing I know, Christmas decorations are everywhere and people are already asking what the plan is for Christmas lunch and the New Year’s braai. The holidays have a way of sneaking up on you, especially when life is already busy.

Since sticking to Banting, I’ve learned that the festive season doesn’t have to derail everything. In fact, with a bit of planning, it can actually be one of the easiest times to stay on track. The key for me has always been preparation. When I plan ahead, I eat better, feel calmer, avoid last-minute panic, and—bonus—spend less money.

This is exactly how I get myself ready for a Banting-friendly holiday season, without feeling deprived or stressed out.

🎄 

How I Stay Banting-Friendly When Everything Feels Like a Temptation

Let’s be honest: holiday food is everywhere. Work functions, family gatherings, braais, lunches, and endless snack tables all seem to revolve around sugar, bread, and carbs. It’s not realistic to pretend that temptation won’t be there.

What Banting has taught me, though, is to focus on real food and not get caught up in the noise. I don’t aim for perfection over the holidays. I aim for consistency. When I know what I’m eating and why, I don’t feel like I’m missing out.

Instead of reacting in the moment, I plan. I decide ahead of time what meals I’ll be responsible for, what dishes I’ll bring, and what swaps I’ll make. That way, I’m never stuck hungry, frustrated, or reaching for something just because it’s there.

Planning My Christmas Lunch Without Living in the Kitchen

Christmas lunch is the main event in my family, so I always start thinking about it earlier than most people. I want it to feel special and festive, but I refuse to spend the entire day cooking while everyone else relaxes.

Over the years, I’ve learned that simple, well-prepared food beats complicated dishes every time. Banting actually makes this easier because the focus is on quality ingredients rather than lots of sides and sauces.

A whole roasted chicken or turkey is always my starting point. It looks impressive, feeds a crowd, and fits perfectly into Banting. I season it generously with herbs, garlic, butter, and olive oil, then let the oven do most of the work.

For sides, I skip the traditional potatoes completely. Instead, I make cauliflower mash or roasted cauliflower, and honestly, no one complains. Creamy garlic spinach is another favourite—it’s rich, comforting, and feels indulgent without being heavy.

I always add a big, fresh salad to the table. It keeps the meal balanced and adds colour, which somehow makes everything feel more festive. I stick to simple olive oil and lemon dressing so it doesn’t overpower the food.

Dessert is where things can get tricky, especially when guests bring sugary treats. I never make a big deal out of it. I simply make sure there’s at least one Banting-friendly option for me. Fresh berries with whipped cream or a simple low-carb dessert is more than enough to feel included.

🎅 

Why the New Year's Braai Is My Favourite Banting Occasion

If there’s one holiday meal that feels made for Banting, it’s a braai. New Year’s Eve at my place almost always revolves around the fire, good company, and relaxed vibes—and thankfully, most braai food is naturally low-carb.

I keep the focus on quality meats and simple seasonings. Lamb chops with herbs and garlic are always a hit. I also make sure to source proper boerewors with minimal fillers, which makes a big difference. Chicken wings in a homemade marinade are another favourite and disappear fast.

To balance out all the meat, I throw plenty of veggies on the grill. Halloumi and pepper skewers, mushrooms with butter and herbs, and roasted vegetables work beautifully and don’t feel like an afterthought.

Salads are non-negotiable. I usually do a creamy coleslaw, a classic Greek salad, and something roasted or grilled. This way, everyone has options, and I never feel like my plate is missing anything.

🔥 

Shopping Early: The One Habit That Changed Everything

The biggest game-changer for me has been shopping early. December shopping can be chaotic, expensive, and overwhelming. When I leave everything to the last minute, I make rushed decisions and spend more than I should.

Now, I shop in phases. I start with non-perishables and pantry staples weeks ahead of time. Anything that can be frozen—especially meat—I buy early and store properly. This saves money and avoids the stress of empty shelves.

I always shop with a list, and I stick to it. Writing everything down helps me stay focused and prevents impulse buying, especially in those festive aisles that are designed to tempt you.

I also prep ahead wherever possible. Chopping vegetables, mixing marinades, and even prepping desserts in advance frees up so much time when things get busy.

🛒 

Keeping the Holidays About More Than Food

At the end of the day, the holidays aren’t really about what’s on the plate. They’re about time with family, laughter, rest, and resetting for the year ahead. Banting doesn’t take that away—it actually helps me enjoy it more because I feel good physically and mentally.

I eat until I’m satisfied, choose foods I enjoy, and don’t stress about being “perfect.” When I plan ahead, I don’t feel restricted. I feel prepared.

🛒 My Banting Holiday Shopping List

🥩 Proteins (Buy early & freeze)

  • Whole chicken / turkey

  • Chicken wings

  • Lamb chops

  • Beef steaks

  • Boerewors (look for low-filler options)

  • Pork rashers / pork belly

  • Halloumi cheese (for skewers)

  • Bacon (for salads or breakfast)

🥦 Vegetables & Sides

  • Cauliflower (for mash or roast)

  • Broccoli

  • Spinach

  • Zucchini / baby marrows

  • Bell peppers (red, yellow, green)

  • Mushrooms

  • Cherry tomatoes

  • Mixed salad greens

  • Avocados

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley, coriander)

  • Cabbage (for coleslaw)

🧀 Dairy & Eggs

  • Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda)

  • Cream cheese

  • Fresh cream

  • Butter

  • Greek yogurt (unsweetened)

  • Eggs (2+ dozen for holiday cooking)

🥥 Pantry Staples

  • Olive oil

  • Herbs and spices

  • Almond flour or coconut cream if you use them regularly

When I have all of this sorted ahead of time, the holidays feel calmer, more enjoyable, and far less overwhelming.

With a little planning and a realistic approach, Banting fits beautifully into the festive season. You still get great food, relaxed meals, and time with the people who matter—without starting the new year feeling like you need to undo everything.

 

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