10 Food Traditions for Good Luck in the New Year
Ring in the New Year with one or all of these food traditions said to bring good luck in the coming year.
Comments: The first four are Southern! But some states have certain greens and pork!
Black Eyed Peas: Resembling coins, these beans are said to bring prosperity in the New Year
Greens: Because of their deep emerald color resembling money, healthy, hearty greens like kale, spinach, and collards are believed to bring wealth (and of course, health!) to those who enjoy it early and often an in the New Year. For legume or meat-based dishes, a garnish of parsley is also said to ward off evil spirits.
Pork: Bring on the bacon! As pigs root forward while they forage for food (as opposed to cows, who stand still, or chickens, who scratch backwards), pork in all forms is enjoyed by many hoping to embrace the challenges and adventures that await them in the coming year.
Cornbread: Golden yellow and inarguably delicious, cornbread is especially popular in the South. Because it’s color is similar to that of gold, this bread is enjoyed by those hopeful for a prosperous year.
Comments: These are great ideas too!
Buttered Bread: New Years Day in Ireland is also known as Day of the Buttered Bread (or Sandwich, depending on the Gaelic translation you use). Tradition says buttered bread placed outside the door symbolizes an absence of hunger in the household, and presumably for the year to come.
Grapes/Raisins: Tradition in Spain says 12 grapes or raisins eaten just before midnight (one at each chime of the clock) will bring good for all 12 months of the year, so long as you finish all 12 before the final stroke!
Long Noodles: Signifying longevity in Asian culture, a stir-fry of unbroken noodles is a tradition believed to bring good health and luck in the New Year. Those who can eat at least one long noodle without chewing or breaking it is said to enjoy the longest life and best luck of all!
Lentils: Resembling tiny coins, the custom of enjoying lentils in the New Year is a common Italian tradition said to bring wealth.
Round Foods: Cakes, pastries, cookies, and round fruits like clementines are often enjoyed on New Year’s Day as their shape signifies the old year has come to a close, and the coming days hold the promise of a fresh start.
Whole Fish: In Chinese culture, serving fish whole (both head and tail intact) symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and a good year to come (from start to finish).
What foods do you eat for good luck in the New Year? Share your traditions with us in the comments below!
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