VENEZUELA praised its “socialist revolution” for a culinary conquest over the weekend: Guinness World Records for the country’s beloved Christmas dinner staples.

    A cook-a-thon in capital Caracas landed Venezuela records for the biggest ham-filled bread, sugar cane juice infused with lemon, and “hallaca,” a cornmeal dish wrapped in plantain leaves.

    “Made in socialism, made in revolution,” Food Minister Yvan Bello said. “The people are celebrating, Venezuela is a country of records, of achievements, thanks to the revolution,” he added, feting the 20-meter bread, 12,000-liter drink and 120-meter “hallaca.”

    The initiative comes as Venezuelans struggle ahead of the holiday season due to shortages of basic goods and sky-high inflation that crimps purchasing power. President Nicolas Maduro has launched a plan dubbed “Operation Merry Christmas” to lower the cost of toys, clothes and appliances amid the weakening economy. (SD-Agencies)