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Lucky Foods to Eat for the New Year

By Anu Kapur, Publisher, Lower Manhattan Macaroni KID & Upper West Side Macaroni KID January 2, 2024

    Are you ready to ring in the New Year with some good luck? Many cultures believe that certain foods can bring good fortune for the coming year. Whether you're superstitious or just love trying new foods, here are some lucky foods to eat for New Year's that might just bring you some extra good vibes in the year ahead.

Black-Eyed Peas

In the southern United States, black-eyed peas are a staple New Year's Day dish. It is believed that these small, creamy legumes bring prosperity and good luck. Some people even tuck a shiny penny or dime into the pot while cooking the peas to bring extra wealth.

Greens

In many cultures, eating leafy greens like collard greens, kale, or cabbage on New Year's Day symbolizes financial prosperity. The green color of these vegetables is also associated with money, making them an ideal choice to kick off the new year.

Pork

Pork is a popular New Year's dish in many countries around the world. In some cultures, pork symbolizes progress and prosperity because pigs root around with their snouts moving forward, signifying progress. Whether it's a roast, pork chops, or ham, adding pork to your New Year's menu may bring you good fortune.

Fish

In several cultures, eating fish on New Year's is believed to bring about a year of prosperity. Fish are considered lucky because their scales resemble coins, and they swim in schools, which can represent abundance. Whether it's a whole fish or a seafood dish, including fish in your New Year's feast could bring you wealth in the coming year.

Round Fruits

In the Philippines, it is customary to have 12 round fruits on the table for New Year's Eve, each one representing a different month of the year. Round fruits, such as oranges, apples, and grapes, symbolize prosperity and wealth.

    Whether you believe in the superstitions or not, trying out these lucky foods can be a fun and delicious way to celebrate the New Year. Who knows, it might just bring you some good fortune in the year ahead. So why not give it a try and enjoy some tasty, lucky dishes as you welcome the New Year? Cheers to good luck and a prosperous year ahead!