For anyone who didn’t get a midnight kiss under the mistletoe, have no fear! Just because you didn’t start off the year lucky in love, that doesn’t mean all hope is lost, because these lucky new years foods are here to save the day – or should we say the year. Don’t worry, you can thank us later.
Pork
Apparently, pork equals progress! Because pigs walk around with their snouts moving in a forward motion, many cultures enjoy pork on New Year’s Day to symbolize progress and moving forward in the coming year.
Black-Eyed Peas, Greens, and Cornbread
No, these legumes aren’t just lucky because they share a name with the iconic pop band. The explanation behind this tradition can be found in the expression: “peas for pennies, greens for dollars, and cornbread for gold.”
Pomegranates
Pomegranate seeds have long been associated with fertility. In Greece, whole pomegranates are thrown at the ground, releasing all of the seeds which symbolize life and abundance.
Fish
Not unsurprisingly, fish symbolizes abundance in the new year. People in Asian countries eat whole fish to commemorate the Lunar New Year, and in many European cultures, cod, herring, and carp are enjoyed. Bonus: the silvery scales symbolize coins.