There’s something about the holidays that pulls us back to the kitchen, the clatter of pans, the scent of something rich in the oven, the comfort of recipes we know by heart. But every once in a while, those familiar dishes need a little spark, something bold, unexpected, and deeply satisfying.

Montreal-style smoked meat has that kind of presence. It doesn’t just fit into festive meals; it makes them feel fuller, more familiar, more honest. 

This season, let’s reimagine festive cooking with dishes that honor the past, but aren’t afraid to bring a little smoke to the table.

The Star of the Season: Smoked Meat Latkes

Latkes have always had a place on the Hanukkah table, crispy, golden potato pancakes fried in oil to honor tradition. But over time, this humble dish has become more than a holiday staple. It’s a canvas. And in recent years, smoked meat has made its way onto that canvas in the most delicious ways.

Some recipes fold finely chopped smoked meat right into the batter, giving each bite a salty, savory punch beneath the crisp potato crust. Others take a simpler route: stack thick slices of smoked meat on top of a freshly fried latke, maybe add a dollop of sour cream or mustard, and let the flavors speak for themselves.

What makes it work so well? It’s that contrast. The crunch of the latke against the soft, rich meat. The salt, the fat, the heat, it hits all the notes of a perfect holiday bite.

Festive Twists on Classic Dishes

Smoked meat isn’t just for sandwiches, and the holidays are the perfect excuse to let it show off. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning a quiet dinner, adding smoked meat to familiar dishes brings a whole new layer of comfort and flavor.

Pulled Brisket-Topped Latkes

Take your latkes up a notch by layering them with juicy, slow-cooked pulled brisket. The crispy potato base holds its own against the tender meat, making each bite rich, satisfying, and full of contrast. Perfect for a Hanukkah twist or as a comforting small plate.

Smoked Meat Poutine

This one’s made for parties. Crispy fries, fresh cheese curds, rich gravy, and then, a generous layer of smoked meat. It’s indulgent, it’s familiar, and it always disappears first. Serve it straight from a skillet for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Smoked Meat Sliders

Small, bold, and packed with flavor. These sliders are everything people love about a smoked meat sandwich, served in two bites. A soft bun, warm meat, and maybe a swipe of mustard or a spoonful of slaw, they’re the kind of appetizer that turns guests into regulars.

Brisket-Stuffed Challah or Puff Pastry

Looking for a real showstopper? Fold smoked brisket into a braided challah or wrap it in flaky puff pastry for something elegant but hearty. It’s ideal for brunch, dinner, or anything in between, and it brings both tradition and surprise to the holiday table.

You haven’t truly tasted Montreal until you’ve had a smoked meat sandwich at Dunn’s Famous, crafted with care, history, and heart. Visit now Montreal’s #1 smoked meat restaurant!

Smoked Meat as a Holiday Centerpiece

Not every holiday table needs a turkey. In fact, more and more families are turning to smoked brisket or smoked meat roasts as the main event, and once you’ve had it, it’s easy to see why.

A smoked brisket, slow-cooked until tender and full of spice, brings something different to the celebration. It’s bold without being overpowering, rich without being heavy, and it carves beautifully right at the table. Unlike turkey or ham, smoked meat delivers intense flavor in every slice, no stuffing or sauce required to carry it.

So if you’re looking to serve something that’s rooted in tradition but still feels fresh, consider making smoked meat your centerpiece this season. It’s the kind of dish that fills the room with good smells, brings people together, and turns a simple dinner into a lasting memory.

Easy Ways to Add Smoked Meat to Your Holiday Table

You don’t need to overhaul your entire holiday menu to bring smoked meat into the mix. A few thoughtful touches can go a long way in adding warmth, flavor, and something a little different to your table. Here are some easy, crowd-pleasing ideas to make it happen:

Build a Smoked Meat Platter

Set out hand-sliced smoked meat with rye bread, classic yellow mustard, and crisp pickles. It’s casual, satisfying, and gives your guests the joy of building their own perfect bite.

Smoked Meat for Brunch

Fold it into scrambled eggs, toss it into a quiche, or sprinkle it over roasted potatoes. Smoked meat adds richness to any breakfast spread, turning simple dishes into something worth lingering over.

Leftover Magic

Have extra smoked meat? Layer it into a post-holiday sandwich board with grainy mustard, sauerkraut, soft rolls, and sharp cheeses. It’s relaxed, no-fuss, and perfect for laid-back hosting the day after the big meal.

Pair It Right

Smoked meat plays well with a range of sides and sauces, think sour cream, applesauce, grainy mustard, or even a light gravy. Keep the flavors simple and let the meat do the talking.

Consider Catering

Not up for cooking this year? Look into local delis or smoked meat specialists that offer holiday catering. It’s a stress-free way to serve something warm, comforting, and guaranteed to impress, with none of the prep. A full spread of sliced smoked meat, fresh bread, and classic sides is a gift in itself.

A little smoked meat goes a long way, and when you serve it with care, it turns any gathering into something personal, comforting, and worth remembering.

Conclusion

The holidays are about warmth, flavor, and the kind of meals that bring people closer. Whether it’s crisp latkes layered with smoked meat, a platter of party-ready sliders, or a centerpiece brisket roast that fills the room with anticipation, smoked meat adds something unforgettable to every dish it touches.

And if you’d rather taste it than make it, visit Dunn’s Famous, serving some of the best smoked meat dishes in Canada, crafted with care and rooted in tradition. Dunn’s also offers catering services, so you can bring those iconic flavors straight to your table without lifting a finger. This holiday season, skip the ordinary. Bring home the flavor that made Montreal famous.