A new study has shown a quarter of Brits could ditch the traditional Christmas dinner this year for a takeaway
Millions of Brits could be ditching Christmas dinner for something far easier, according to a new study. It claims that a surprising 26% of Brits are considering skipping the stress of the kitchen entirely on December 25th and instead ordering a takeaway.
Pizza is the most popular choice for those ordering takeaway (54%), according to the survey. Burgers, fried chicken and kebabs coming joint second (51%).
Sneaking into the top five Christmas takeout options is British classic fish and chips (48%), according to the research by Papa Johns. For those not quite ready to bid their traditional turkey dinner farewell, some eyebrow-raising takeaway favourites are being added to Brits’ roasts.
More than a quarter (27%) said they would add chips, pizza (24%), garlic bread (22%) and baked beans (21%) to the table. Instead of indulging in traditional cranberry sauce, a quarter of Brits (26%) plan to add a dollop of mayo to their plates while 24% look to spice it up with chilli sauce.
Despite some planning to indulge in creative mash-ups or no-fuss takeaways, it seems tradition reigns supreme. Of those quizzed, 69% said they’re planning a traditional roast dinner on Christmas Day.
Turkey still holds the top spot among meat eaters, with 65% plumping for it on the big day. However its crown is slipping as the old ‘one meat fits all’ rule is disappearing, with chicken (34%) and beef (32%) stepping in as additional or alternative options.
Side dishes are anyone’s game, with 77% saying Yorkshire puddings belong with any meat, not just beef, and the same number insist pigs in blankets shouldn’t just be reserved for Christmas Day.
Preparing Christmas dinner remains one of the most stressful parts of the season, with 41% of Brits admitting that washing up and juggling cooking timings is their biggest festive headache.
But this year, the nation is done sweating over the stove, with three in five (64%) using shortcuts. Of those quizzed, 42% said they want to spend less time in the kitchen, 38% want more time with family and friends and 37% simply want more variety on the table.
To keep stress low and spirits high, Papa Johns has launched the Yuletide Yorkie – the brand’s first-ever Yorkshire Pudding-inspired pizza. Rebecca Carroll, Marketing Director at Papa Johns, said: “We’re seeing a shift in what’s acceptable according to the roast police – and the old rules are out.
“Yorkshire puddings show up with any meat, cauliflower cheese goes wherever it likes and no one waits for Christmas to serve pigs in blankets. It’s less about tradition and more about piling your plate high with whatever tastes great.
“This year some Brits aren’t just reinventing the roast, they’re replacing it completely. Some are binning the hours of prep and opting for easier alternatives like a Christmas Day takeaway.
“The nation spoke, and we listened, creating the Yuletide Yorkie-inspired pizza to satisfy Britain’s desire to combine their favourites this Christmas.”
Top five takeaways ordered on Christmas Day
Pizza (54%)
Burgers, fried chicken, kebabs (joint second) – 51%
Fish and chips – 48%
Top eight non-traditional additions to Christmas dinner
Chips (27%)
Mayo, grated or sliced cheese (joint second) – (26%)
Pizza, tinned/frozen sweetcorn, chilli sauce (joint fourth) – (24%)
Garlic bread (22%)
Baked beans (21%)
Selected Papa Johns will be open on Christmas Day. Find local store opening times at PapaJohns.co.uk
