What do people eat at Easter in Europe?

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is widely observed in Europe. While the religious aspects of Easter remain central to the celebration, it has also become a time for family gatherings and feasting. Traditional Easter foods vary across different European countries, but here are some common dishes:

1. Lamb: In many European countries, lamb is a popular Easter dish. It symbolizes the sacrificial lamb in Christianity and is often roasted, grilled, or stewed.

2. Eggs: Eggs are an essential part of Easter celebrations in Europe. They represent fertility and new life and are often decorated or dyed in bright colors. Egg hunting is also a popular Easter tradition.

3. Hot Cross Buns: These sweet, spiced buns are a popular Easter treat in the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe. They are marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus.

4. Chocolate: Chocolate eggs, bunnies, and other chocolate treats are widely consumed during Easter in Europe. They are often given as gifts and are a symbol of indulgence and joy.

5. Roast Dinner: In some European countries, a traditional roast dinner is served on Easter Sunday. This may include roast lamb, beef, or pork, along with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

6. Simnel Cake: This rich fruit cake is a traditional Easter dessert in the United Kingdom. It is usually covered with marzipan and decorated with eleven marzipan balls, representing the twelve apostles minus Judas.

7. Paskha: This is a traditional Russian Easter bread. It is made from a sweet yeast dough that is baked in a cylindrical mold and decorated with white frosting and other ornaments.

8. Torta Pasqualina: This savory Italian Easter pie is made with pastry dough filled with ricotta cheese, eggs, herbs, and vegetables.

9. Folar de Páscoa: A traditional Portuguese Easter bread, Folar de Páscoa is a sweet yeast dough bread that can be filled with various ingredients such as ham, cheese, or ovos moles (a sweet egg yolk cream).

These are just a few examples of the diverse Easter foods enjoyed in Europe. Each country and region has its own unique culinary traditions and variations on these dishes, making Easter a time of indulgence and culinary exploration.