Top 100 Traditional New Year's Foods from Around the World

Photo: Maya Kruchancova / stock.adobe.com

As the New Year approaches, many cultures around the globe celebrate with unique culinary traditions that symbolize prosperity, health, and good fortune for the year ahead.

From savory dishes to sweet treats, each food carries a special meaning and is often enjoyed in the company of family and friends.

Here are 100 Traditional New Year’s Foods from Around the World that showcase the rich tapestry of global culinary customs.

1. Toshikoshi Soba (Japan)

Toshikoshi soba is eaten on New Year's Eve in Japan and symbolizes longevity. The long buckwheat noodles represent crossing from the old year into the new, with hopes for a long and prosperous life.

2. Black-Eyed Peas (Southern United States)

In the Southern United States, black-eyed peas are believed to bring good luck when eaten on New Year's Day. Traditionally served with collard greens and pork, they are said to represent coins and prosperity.

3. Hoppin' John (United States)

This Southern comfort dish of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork is eaten to bring fortune in the new year. The beans symbolize coins, and the greens served with it are said to represent wealth.

4. Twelve Grapes (Spain)

In Spain, it is a tradition to eat twelve grapes at midnight on New Year's Eve, one for each strike of the clock. Each grape represents good luck for one month of the upcoming year.

5. Lentils (Italy)

In Italy, eating lentils at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring prosperity. Their round shape is thought to resemble coins, symbolizing wealth for the year ahead.

6. Pickled Herring (Poland and Scandinavia)

In Poland and Scandinavian countries, pickled herring is eaten as a symbol of good luck and abundance. Herring, a plentiful fish, represents a bountiful and prosperous new year.

7. King Cake (France and Louisiana, United States)

King cake is traditionally eaten during the celebration of Epiphany, marking the end of the Christmas season and the start of the New Year. Hidden inside the cake is a figurine, and whoever finds it is said to have good luck.

8. Round Fruits (Philippines)

In the Philippines, it is common to display and eat twelve round fruits on New Year's Eve, symbolizing prosperity. Each fruit is believed to bring luck for each month of the new year.

9. Oliebollen (Netherlands)

Oliebollen are Dutch doughnuts traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve. These fried pastries are a delicious symbol of protection against evil spirits and bring good fortune in the new year.

10. Kransekage (Denmark and Norway)

Kransekage is a towering cake made of concentric rings of almond paste, served at Danish and Norwegian New Year’s celebrations. The tower-like structure symbolizes reaching greater heights and success in the coming year.

11. Soba (Japan)

In Japan, soba noodles are consumed on New Year's Eve to symbolize strength and resilience. The long, thin noodles represent the hope for a long life and the cutting away of hardships from the previous year.

12. Vasilopita (Greece)

Vasilopita, a sweet bread baked with a coin hidden inside, is served on New Year’s Day in Greece. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the rest of the year.

13. Rosca de Reyes (Mexico)

Rosca de Reyes is a traditional sweet bread enjoyed during the Epiphany holiday, marking the end of the New Year’s celebrations. The circular shape of the bread represents the crown of the Three Wise Men, and a baby figurine hidden inside brings blessings to whoever finds it.

14. Pomegranate (Greece)

Pomegranates are often smashed on the doorstep on New Year’s Eve in Greece as a symbol of abundance and fertility. The more seeds that spill out, the more luck and prosperity will come in the new year.

15. Marzipan Pigs (Germany)

In Germany, marzipan pigs are gifted on New Year’s Eve as a symbol of good luck and wealth. These sweet treats are a fun and delicious way to welcome fortune in the coming year.

16. Cotechino and Lentils (Italy)

In Italy, cotechino (a pork sausage) and lentils are eaten at midnight on New Year’s Eve. The lentils symbolize coins and wealth, while the pork represents progress and the ability to move forward in life.

17. Rice Cakes (Korea)

In Korea, rice cakes known as tteokguk are eaten on New Year’s Day as a symbol of prosperity and the passing of time. Eating this dish is believed to bring good fortune and success in the coming year.

18. Herring Salad (Germany)

A bright and tangy herring salad made with pickled herring, beets, and potatoes is traditionally enjoyed in Germany on New Year’s Eve. The fish is thought to bring luck, and the salad’s vibrant color symbolizes vitality for the year ahead.

19. Collard Greens (Southern United States)

In the Southern United States, collard greens are a New Year’s staple as they are believed to represent money. Eating them alongside black-eyed peas is thought to ensure financial prosperity.

20. Salted Cod (Portugal)

In Portugal, salted cod or bacalhau is often served during New Year’s festivities. This dish is considered a good-luck meal, as fish represent abundance and forward movement in life.

21. Panettone (Italy)

Panettone, a sweet bread filled with dried fruit and raisins, is a popular treat during the New Year’s celebration in Italy. It is believed to bring luck and prosperity, with the raisins symbolizing wealth.

22. Pork and Sauerkraut (Germany and Pennsylvania Dutch)

Pork and sauerkraut is a traditional New Year’s dish in Germany and among the Pennsylvania Dutch. Pork symbolizes progress, as pigs move forward when rooting, while sauerkraut represents good fortune and a fresh start.

23. Khachapuri (Georgia)

Khachapuri, a cheesy bread dish from Georgia, is a celebratory food enjoyed during New Year’s festivities. The rich and filling nature of the dish symbolizes abundance and comfort for the year to come.

24. Tamales (Mexico)

Tamales are a staple in Mexican households during the holiday season, including New Year’s Eve. Wrapped in corn husks and filled with various meats or beans, tamales are shared among families to signify togetherness and blessings for the new year.

25. Sauerbraten (Germany)

Sauerbraten, a traditional pot roast dish, is often enjoyed in Germany around the New Year. The hearty meal is symbolic of strength and endurance, giving people the energy they need to face the new year.

26. Tangyuan (China)

Tangyuan, sweet glutinous rice balls, are eaten in China during the Lunar New Year to symbolize unity and togetherness. Their round shape represents harmony within families and communities for the year ahead.

27. Feijoada (Brazil)

Feijoada, a hearty black bean stew with pork, is traditionally served on New Year’s Day in Brazil. This dish, rooted in Brazilian culture, is meant to symbolize prosperity and abundance.

28. Kuchikami no Sake (Japan)

An ancient Japanese tradition involves drinking Kuchikami no Sake, a fermented rice drink. This beverage, brewed by chewing rice and spitting it out to ferment, is thought to bring blessings and good fortune for the new year.

29. Moqueca (Brazil)

Moqueca, a Brazilian fish stew, is served to welcome the new year with hopes of abundance and good luck. The dish’s bright colors and rich flavors symbolize a vibrant and prosperous year ahead.

30. Borscht (Russia and Ukraine)

Borscht, a traditional beet soup, is often served at New Year’s celebrations in Russia and Ukraine. The vibrant red color of the soup symbolizes life and vitality for the year ahead.

31. Pavlova (New Zealand and Australia)

Pavlova, a meringue-based dessert, is a beloved dish served during New Year’s festivities in New Zealand and Australia. The light, fluffy texture represents a fresh start and new beginnings.

32. Yu Sheng (Singapore and Malaysia)

Yu Sheng is a colorful raw fish salad eaten during Lunar New Year in Singapore and Malaysia. The dish is tossed while participants shout auspicious phrases, symbolizing wealth and prosperity for the upcoming year.

33. Gallo Pinto (Costa Rica and Nicaragua)

Gallo Pinto, a dish made of rice and beans, is eaten for breakfast on New Year’s Day in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. This simple yet hearty meal represents harmony and unity, bringing balance to the new year.

34. Banitsa (Bulgaria)

Banitsa is a Bulgarian pastry filled with cheese and sometimes eggs, enjoyed on New Year’s Day. Hidden within the layers are lucky charms or fortunes, which symbolize blessings and predictions for the year ahead.

35. Dduk Guk (Korea)

Dduk Guk is a Korean rice cake soup eaten on New Year’s Day to celebrate getting a year older. The rice cakes represent purity and prosperity, while the clear broth signifies a fresh start to the year.

36. Blini (Russia)

Blini, thin pancakes often served with caviar or smoked salmon, are a New Year’s staple in Russia. They symbolize the sun and warmth, welcoming the light of the new year.

37. Kugel (Jewish Communities)

Kugel, a baked noodle or potato pudding, is eaten during New Year’s celebrations by Jewish communities. This comforting dish is believed to bring sweetness and warmth to the upcoming year.

38. Zakuski (Russia)

Zakuski, a spread of appetizers including pickled vegetables, cold meats, and caviar, is a New Year’s Eve tradition in Russia. The variety and abundance of foods symbolize wealth and hospitality.

39. Mulled Wine (Western Europe)

Mulled wine, a spiced and heated beverage, is a popular drink during New Year’s Eve in Western Europe. The warmth and spices of the wine represent comfort and joy for the year ahead.

40. Laufabrauð (Iceland)

Laufabrauð, also known as leaf bread, is a traditional Icelandic dish enjoyed during the holiday season, including New Year’s. Its intricate designs symbolize the beauty of nature and the hope for a prosperous year.

41. Mochi (Japan)

Mochi, sticky rice cakes, are a staple of New Year’s celebrations in Japan. Eating mochi is thought to bring strength, as its chewy texture requires effort to eat, symbolizing the ability to overcome challenges.

42. Empanadas (Argentina)

Empanadas, savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, are enjoyed in Argentina during New Year’s festivities. The rich fillings and crispy exterior represent wealth and a fulfilling year ahead.

43. Pineapple Tarts (Singapore and Malaysia)

Pineapple tarts are popular during Lunar New Year in Singapore and Malaysia. Pineapples are seen as a symbol of good fortune, and eating these sweet treats is believed to bring luck and wealth.

44. Pierogi (Poland)

Pierogi, Polish dumplings filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat, are often served on New Year’s Eve. The dumplings represent abundance and the hope for a prosperous and satisfying year ahead.

45. Fufu and Soup (West Africa)

Fufu, a starchy dish made from yams, cassava, or plantains, is enjoyed with soup during New Year’s celebrations in West African countries. This meal symbolizes strength and resilience for the coming year.

46. Suckling Pig (Cuba)

Suckling pig is a New Year’s Eve tradition in Cuba, symbolizing a fresh start and wealth. The pig is a symbol of progress, as pigs root forward when searching for food, representing movement into the new year.

47. Baklava (Turkey and Greece)

Baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, honey, and nuts, is enjoyed in Turkey and Greece during the New Year. Its richness and sweetness symbolize a prosperous and sweet year ahead.

48. Mandu (Korea)

Mandu, Korean dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, are eaten during New Year’s festivities to bring fortune. The round shape of the dumplings is thought to symbolize unity and completeness.

49. Minestra Maritata (Italy)

Minestra Maritata, or Italian wedding soup, is traditionally served on New Year’s Day. The combination of meat and greens represents harmony and prosperity, ensuring a balanced and fortunate year ahead.

50. Qatayef (Middle East)

Qatayef, a sweet stuffed pancake, is commonly eaten during New Year’s celebrations in the Middle East. Filled with nuts or cheese and drizzled with syrup, this dessert symbolizes joy and indulgence for the upcoming year.

51. Tamales (Mexico)

Tamales, a dish made from masa dough wrapped in corn husks and steamed, are often served during New Year’s Eve in Mexico. This meal represents unity, as the process of making tamales typically involves family and friends coming together.

52. Medovik (Russia)

Medovik is a layered honey cake served during New Year’s festivities in Russia. The sweet, rich flavors of this dessert symbolize a sweet and prosperous year ahead.

53. Osechi Ryori (Japan)

Osechi Ryori is a collection of traditional Japanese dishes eaten during New Year’s celebrations, each food symbolizing a wish for the new year, such as health, happiness, or prosperity. The colorful variety of foods represents abundance and diversity of blessings.

54. Fondue (Switzerland)

Fondue, a dish of melted cheese served with bread for dipping, is a New Year’s tradition in Switzerland. Sharing a pot of fondue symbolizes togetherness and warmth, making it perfect for ringing in the new year with loved ones.

55. Cassoulet (France)

Cassoulet, a slow-cooked stew of beans and meat, is enjoyed during the New Year in France. The hearty ingredients and long preparation time represent patience and prosperity in the coming year.

56. Turrón (Spain)

Turrón, a nougat made with almonds and honey, is a traditional New Year’s sweet in Spain. Its richness and crunchiness symbolize resilience and prosperity for the year ahead.

57. King Cake (France and the United States)

The King Cake is a pastry enjoyed in France and parts of the United States, particularly in Louisiana, during New Year’s celebrations. A small trinket is hidden inside, symbolizing luck and prosperity for the person who finds it.

58. Khichdi (India)

Khichdi, a simple dish made of rice and lentils, is enjoyed during New Year’s celebrations in India. The meal symbolizes comfort and sustenance, bringing a sense of balance and well-being to the new year.

59. Soba Noodles (Japan)

In Japan, soba noodles are eaten on New Year’s Eve, a tradition known as Toshikoshi Soba. The long, thin noodles represent longevity and resilience, qualities people wish for in the coming year.

60. Flæskesteg (Denmark)

Flæskesteg, a traditional Danish roast pork with crackling, is enjoyed on New Year’s Eve. The crispy skin and savory meat symbolize prosperity, strength, and abundance.

61. Pav Bhaji (India)

Pav Bhaji, a popular Indian street food consisting of spiced mashed vegetables served with buttered bread, is sometimes enjoyed on New Year’s Day. The colorful, flavorful dish represents abundance and the joy of starting fresh.

62. Dolma (Turkey and Greece)

Dolma, grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, are a traditional New Year’s dish in Turkey and Greece. The careful preparation and presentation of dolma symbolize patience and hope for the new year.

63. Vasilopita (Greece)

Vasilopita is a Greek cake or bread served on New Year’s Day, often with a coin baked inside. Whoever finds the coin is believed to have good luck and prosperity throughout the year.

64. Smoked Salmon (Norway)

Smoked salmon is a common dish served during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Norway. The rich, flavorful fish symbolizes abundance and a prosperous start to the new year.

65. Hoppin’ John (Southern United States)

Hoppin’ John, a dish made from black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, is a Southern U.S. New Year’s tradition. The black-eyed peas represent coins, symbolizing wealth and prosperity for the year ahead.

66. Raclette (Switzerland)

Raclette, melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and onions, is enjoyed in Switzerland during New Year’s celebrations. This warm, communal dish symbolizes comfort and friendship in the coming year.

67. Pork and Sauerkraut (Germany)

Pork and sauerkraut is a traditional German New Year’s dish, representing progress and wealth. The pig, which roots forward, symbolizes moving forward into the new year, while sauerkraut signifies good fortune.

68. Rugelach (Jewish Communities)

Rugelach, a sweet pastry filled with nuts, chocolate, or fruit, is often eaten during Jewish New Year’s celebrations. The spiral shape represents the cycles of life and renewal.

69. Fish Maw Soup (China)

Fish maw soup is a luxurious dish served during Lunar New Year in China, made from the swim bladders of fish. It symbolizes wealth and abundance, as the dish is considered a delicacy.

70. Kransekake (Norway)

Kransekake, a towering almond ring cake, is a traditional New Year’s dessert in Norway. Its intricate, layered structure symbolizes success and reaching new heights in the year ahead.

71. Lentil Soup (Italy)

In Italy, lentil soup is traditionally served on New Year’s Eve. The round lentils resemble coins and are believed to bring wealth and prosperity for the year to come.

72. Hallacas (Venezuela)

Hallacas are corn dough pockets filled with meat, olives, and raisins, wrapped in plantain leaves, and served during the New Year in Venezuela. The fusion of ingredients symbolizes the blending of cultures and traditions, offering hope for unity and peace.

73. Shepherd’s Pie (United Kingdom)

Shepherd’s pie, a dish of minced meat topped with mashed potatoes, is commonly enjoyed during New Year’s celebrations in the United Kingdom. The hearty, comforting meal represents warmth and security for the year ahead.

74. Rice Pudding (Nordic Countries)

Rice pudding, often served with a hidden almond inside, is a New Year’s tradition in Nordic countries like Sweden and Norway. Finding the almond is said to bring good fortune and marriage in the new year.

75. Seafood Stew (Portugal)

Seafood stew, rich with a variety of shellfish and fish, is a traditional dish served during New Year’s celebrations in Portugal. The bounty of the sea represents abundance and success for the year ahead.

76. Cotechino con Lenticchie (Italy)

Cotechino con lenticchie is a traditional Italian dish featuring a savory sausage served with lentils on New Year’s Eve. The lentils symbolize wealth, while the sausage represents prosperity and abundance in the coming year.

77. Black Eyed Peas and Greens (Southern United States)

In the Southern United States, black-eyed peas and collard greens are staples during New Year’s celebrations. The peas represent coins for wealth, while the greens symbolize paper money, making them a popular dish for prosperity.

78. Sarmale (Romania)

Sarmale, cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of meat and rice, are commonly served during Romanian New Year celebrations. The dish represents a fresh start, as it is often prepared with the first cabbage of the year.

79. Pasta e Fagioli (Italy)

Pasta e fagioli, a hearty bean and pasta soup, is often enjoyed in Italy during New Year’s celebrations. The dish represents comfort and nourishment, with beans symbolizing prosperity for the year ahead.

80. Chateaubriand (France)

Chateaubriand, a thick cut of beef tenderloin, is a classic dish served during French New Year celebrations. The rich, indulgent meal symbolizes luxury and abundance as families gather to celebrate together.

81. Tonkatsu (Japan)

Tonkatsu, a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, is sometimes enjoyed during New Year’s festivities in Japan. The crispy exterior symbolizes happiness and success, making it a fitting dish for welcoming the new year.

82. Kale and Sausage (Portugal)

Kale and sausage, often served as caldo verde, is a traditional Portuguese dish enjoyed on New Year’s Eve. The dish represents health and vitality, promoting good fortune for the year ahead.

83. Haggis (Scotland)

Haggis, a savory pudding made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, is often served on New Year’s in Scotland. The dish symbolizes celebration and feasting, bringing people together for a joyful start to the year.

84. Bacalao (Spain)

Bacalao, or salted cod, is a staple dish in Spain during New Year’s celebrations. Its significance lies in its preservation, representing abundance and sustenance for the year ahead.

85. Pork and Applesauce (United States)

Pork served with applesauce is a common dish for New Year’s celebrations in the United States. The combination symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, as pork is believed to bring wealth.

86. Poff Poff (Nigeria)

Poff Poff, deep-fried dough balls that are soft and sweet, are often enjoyed at New Year’s celebrations in Nigeria. Their round shape symbolizes wealth and good luck for the year to come.

87. Noodle Salad (China)

Noodle salad is a popular dish in China for New Year celebrations, as noodles symbolize long life and prosperity. The act of slurping noodles is seen as a sign of good fortune in the coming year.

88. Sushi (Japan)

Sushi, particularly Osechi sushi, is enjoyed during New Year celebrations in Japan. The colorful presentation symbolizes the diversity of life and the hope for a prosperous new year.

89. Baklava (Middle Eastern Countries)

Baklava, a rich pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and honey, is enjoyed during New Year’s festivities in many Middle Eastern countries. Its sweetness represents joy and abundance in the coming year.

90. Roast Duck (China)

Roast duck is often served during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Its crispy skin is believed to bring a prosperous and good fortune for the new year.

91. Aloo Gobi (India)

Aloo Gobi, a popular vegetarian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, is often prepared for New Year’s celebrations in India. The vibrant colors of the spices symbolize joy and the warmth of family gatherings.

92. Fruitcake (United Kingdom)

Fruitcake, a rich cake made with candied fruits and nuts, is traditionally enjoyed during New Year’s in the United Kingdom. Its dense texture symbolizes strength and endurance for the year ahead.

93. Chili con Carne (Mexico)

Chili con carne, a hearty stew made with meat and beans, is a popular dish in Mexico for New Year celebrations. The spices in the dish symbolize warmth and hospitality, inviting friends and family to gather.

94. Pani Puri (India)

Pani puri, crispy hollow balls filled with flavored water and spices, are often enjoyed during New Year celebrations in India. The burst of flavors symbolizes excitement and joy for the new year.

95. New Year’s Pancakes (Russia)

In Russia, pancakes, known as blini, are traditionally served on New Year’s Day. The round shape represents the sun and symbolizes the return of warmth and light in the coming year.

96. Meat Pie (Australia)

Meat pie is a classic dish enjoyed during New Year celebrations in Australia. The savory filling represents comfort and community, making it a favorite for gatherings.

97. Sushi Rolls (Korea)

Sushi rolls, or kimbap, are often prepared during New Year’s celebrations in Korea. The colorful ingredients symbolize a wish for health and prosperity for the year ahead.

98. Sweet Rice Cake (Korea)

Sweet rice cake, known as tteok, is a traditional Korean dish enjoyed during New Year celebrations. The chewy texture symbolizes resilience and the hope for a prosperous year.

99. Chocolate Fondue (Switzerland)

Chocolate fondue, a melting pot of rich chocolate served with fruits and pastries for dipping, is enjoyed during New Year’s Eve in Switzerland. It symbolizes indulgence and togetherness, perfect for celebrating with loved ones.

100. Pork and Potato Stew (Philippines)

Pork and potato stew is often served during New Year’s celebrations in the Philippines. The dish symbolizes family unity and comfort, offering warmth and happiness for the year to come.