The Venezuelan Embassy in Singapore hosted a vibrant Christmas event on 12 December, uniting the community through traditional cuisine and festive cheer.
Singapore, 12 December 2024 – The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Singapore, led by Ambassador H.E. Jessica Maria Lopez, hosted a delightful Christmas event. This gathering was a warm celebration of Venezuelan culture, bringing together friends and members of the Venezuelan community.
The event highlighted Venezuela’s cherished culinary traditions, focusing on the quintessential Plato Navideño (Christmas Dish), a hallmark of Venezuelan Christmas celebrations. Guests enjoyed the festive atmosphere, savouring traditional dishes like hallaca, pan de jamón, ensalada de gallina, and pernil.
H.E. Jessica Maria Lopez welcomed attendees with heartfelt remarks, underscoring the significance of cultural preservation and community bonding during the festive season. The occasion offered a glimpse into the rich heritage of Venezuela, fostering connections among expatriates and locals alike.
Event Highlights:
Hallaca: The Star of the Table
The undisputed centerpiece of the Christmas feast is the hallaca. This traditional dish resembles a savory tamale, meticulously prepared with a corn dough ( masa) filled with a flavorful stew (guiso) of beef, pork, and chicken, along with other ingredients such as olives, raisins, and capers. The hallaca is then wrapped in plantain leaves and boiled, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile that embodies the essence of Venezuelan Christmas. Its preparation is a communal affair, with families gathering to participate in this time-honored tradition passed down through generations.
Pan de Jamón: A Sweet and Savory Bread
Complementing the hallaca is Pan de Jamón (Ham Bread), a delectable sweet and savory bread filled with smoked ham, raisins, and green olives. This flavorful bread adds a touch of sweetness to the meal, balancing the savory notes of the hallaca and pernil. Its soft texture and unique flavor make it a beloved component of the Christmas celebration.
Ensalada de Gallina: A Refreshing Salad
To add a refreshing element to the feast, Ensalada de Gallina (Chicken Salad) is served. This vibrant salad combines shredded cooked chicken, boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, and mayonnaise, creating a creamy and flavorful side dish that complements the richness of the other components.
Pernil: A Roasted Delight
Pernil (Roasted Pork Leg) is another essential element of the Venezuelan Christmas dish. This flavorful and succulent roasted pork leg is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, resulting in a tender and aromatic centerpiece that adds a touch of heartiness to the meal.
The celebration wasn’t only about food—it was an opportunity to share stories, traditions, and the vibrant spirit of Venezuela with the broader Singaporean community. The event concluded with cultural performances, music, and a collective toast to the festive season.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
