What to cook in December: Holiday showstoppers of course!

(Photography, left: Betty Binon; middle: Peter Chou)

What would Mariah Carey do? That’s what we’re asking ourselves this month. After the doldrums of november, we’re ready to do everything with a little more pizzazz, especially in the kitchen. As we plan holiday meals big and small, we’re excited to make some real showstoppers.

whatever shape you festive menu take, consider these if you want to add a little extra holiday oomph to the table. From beloved mains, like a wine-braised brisket bejeweled with pomegranate arils, to picture-perfect desserts, like a decadent wreath made of chocolate cream profiteroles, each of these dishes promises to make your meal — and the people you’ve invited to join you—feel extra special.

We’re not, however, suggesting that these recipes are exclusively for hosting guests. Would Mariah Carey not want a fancy Chicken Liver Mousse for herself on a random Wednesday in December? We think she would. Would she want normal applesauce, or an applesauce in the most delightful rose-pink hue? We want the pink one, too. And brioche and sausage in our stuffing, and cookies that look like shooting stars. We hope you find the piece of resistance for one of your holiday meals below.

Wine-Braised Brisket with Pomegranate Seeds