Can you believe it? Another year has flown by, and here we are, saying goodbye to 2024. What a year! What a whirlwind it’s been! From rising inflation (because who doesn’t love paying double for groceries?) to unpredictable weather (thanks for the surprise snowstorm in April, Mother Nature), and an overwhelming (royal) news cycle (we see you, royal family drama), 2024 certainly kept us on our toes. But amidst the chaos, there were moments of joy—feel-good news stories, vibrant local events, and personal achievements that made the year memorable. As we gear up to ring in 2025, it’s time to reset, recharge, and maybe even eat our way to good fortune. That’s right—lucky foods for New Year’s are a thing, and they’re here to help you kick off the year with health, wealth, and happiness. Forget resolutions you’ll abandon by February; this is about starting the year with a full plate (literally).
Across cultures, certain dishes are believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Whether you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve bash or planning a cozy meal for January 1st, incorporating these symbolic foods into your menu is a delicious way to embrace the promise of 2025.
Grapes for Prosperity
A tradition in Spain and Latin America, eating 12 grapes at midnight symbolizes luck for each month of the year. Sweet grapes predict smooth sailing, while sour ones might signal challenges. Pair them with a sparkling drink for a fun, symbolic toast to prosperity.
Noodles for Longevity
Long noodles, such as soba in Japan or lo mein in China, are enjoyed as a symbol of long life and good health. The idea is simple: the longer the noodle, the longer and more prosperous your life will be. Eating them without breaking them is considered good luck, so slurping is not only allowed but encouraged! Whether you prepare them in a savoury broth or stir-fry them with vegetables and protein, noodles are a versatile and delicious addition to your New Year’s celebration.
Black-Eye Peas for Luck
When it comes to lucky foods for New Year’s, black-eyed peas are a Southern superstar. A staple in Southern U.S. New Year’s traditions, these little legumes are believed to symbolise coins, representing financial prosperity. (Because who doesn’t want a year filled with extra cash?) Often served alongside collard greens (which symbolise paper money) and golden cornbread (because everything’s better with carbs), they create a trio of wealth-attracting dishes that could make even a banker jealous.
This hearty combo, famously known as “Hoppin’ John,” is thought to bring abundance and security for the year ahead. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not spice it up? Add smoked ham for a smoky depth or a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat—literally and figuratively. After all, if you’re going to eat your way to good fortune, you might as well make it delicious.
Fish for abundance
Fish isn’t just a healthy dinner option—it’s basically a swimming good luck charm. For centuries, fish has been associated with abundance, progress, and good fortune. Its shimmering scales? They’re like nature’s version of coins (take that, piggy banks). And let’s not forget the fish’s forward-swimming motion, which symbolises continuous growth and moving toward success. Basically, fish are the overachievers of the sea.
In many cultures, especially across Asia, serving a whole fish—baked or steamed—is a New Year’s tradition that’s as symbolic as it is delicious. And here’s a pro tip: keep the head and tail intact. Why? Because it’s believed to represent a complete and successful year, from start to finish. (Plus, it’s a great way to remind your guests that you’re serious about good luck.) So, if you’re looking to reel in some prosperity, this is one tradition you’ll want to hook onto.
Dumplings for wealth
In Chinese culture, dumplings are considered one of the quintessential lucky foods for New Year’s. Shaped like gold ingots, they symbolize wealth and prosperity. Making dumplings with family is not only a fun bonding activity but also a meaningful way to start the year. For an extra dose of good fortune, some families hide a coin in one of the dumplings. The person who finds it is believed to have an especially lucky year. Fill dumplings with a variety of meats, vegetables, or even sweet fillings to suit your taste. Including a coin in one of them adds extra fun. The lucky person who finds it is said to have a particularly fortunate year ahead.
This tradition of hiding a coin in dumplings is a cherished practice that makes dumplings one of the most beloved Lucky Foods For New Year’s, bringing excitement and hope for prosperity in the coming year.
Green Vegetables for Wealth
“Eat your greens,” they said, and honestly, they weren’t wrong. Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens aren’t just nutrient-packed—they’re also believed to bring wealth and financial success. Their resemblance to folded banknotes makes every bite a delicious nod to prosperity.
Delicious and symbolic? Count me in.
Whether you sauté them with garlic, toss them into a fresh salad, or simmer them with spices, greens are endlessly versatile. Add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon for a tangy twist that’ll brighten the flavour. This New Year, eat your greens—not just because they’re good for you, but because they might just help you thrive in more ways than one!
So now, as you get ready to say “cheerio” to 2024, whether you’re out dancing the night away or curled up on the sofa in your fluffiest socks, remember this: your New Year’s Eve feast isn’t just fuel for the party (or the Netflix marathon). It’s a celebration of hope, tradition, and maybe even a little bit of luck served up on a plate. From rituals that promise prosperity to bites that symbolise longevity, these traditions show us that fortune isn’t just something that happens. It’s something we can savour, one delicious bite at a time. So, whether you’re feasting with a crowd or nibbling solo on your favourite snacks, let each mouthful carry a wish for the year to come.
Here’s to stepping into 2025 with joy in our hearts, laughter on our lips, and plates piled high with good vibes. May your meals be memorable, your luck plentiful, and your resolutions… totally negotiable.
Happy New Year!