7 Delicious New Year Food Traditions from Around the World

From black eyed peas that bring you prosperity to soup dumplings for luck, these 7 food traditions are celebrated around the world every New Year.

Turkey Pita Nachos with Pomegranate and Mint
Photo: Blaine Moats

The New Year is celebrated all around the world with remarkable cuisines and food traditions that you can adapt for your own holiday party. Bring good luck and prosperity to your New Year's celebration with our delicious recipes that span across the world. These global New Year's food traditions are worth the effort—so for now, forget your passport and grab a plate!

01 of 07

American South: Black-Eyed Peas

Black-Eyed Peas
Andy Lyons

As traditional southern soul food, black-eyed peas are proclaimed to bring prosperity in the New Year. There are countless ways to cook up this New Year's Eve side dish, but a crowd-favorite is to make stewed black-eyed peas. Our recipe includes a crowd-pleasing spicy chile kick that will catapult you toward success (at least at your New Year's party!).

02 of 07

American South: Savory Collard Greens

Savory Collard Greens
Andy Lyons

These hearty greens are an American favorite during the New Year because of their savory flavor and bright coloring that matches money. To perfect this side dish, cook lightly-spiced pancetta in an 8-quart pot until browned and allow it to simmer in chicken broth with bunches of collard greens until they are tender.

03 of 07

Germany: Sauerkraut and Pork Shoulder Roast

Sauerkraut and Pork Shoulder Roast
Jacob Fox

Serve tender beer-marinated pork on a thick, open-faced sandwich for a German-inspired meal during the New Year. For extra luck, add a hearty helping of homemade sauerkraut. This dish was popularized in America thanks to the Pennsylvania Dutch who believed pork symbolized progress and that the cabbage condiment would bring a sweet year.

04 of 07

Chinese: Sesame Dan Dan Noodle Bowl

Sesame Dan Dan Noodle Bowl
Aya Brackett

To sustain a long life, eat a broth bowl with Chinese egg noodles during the New Year. Our sesame broth and Asian-flavored pork will keep you warm during the holiday, and the traditional dish from China's Szechuan province will add worldly charm to your dinner menu.

05 of 07

China: Soup Dumplings

Soup Dumplings
Hannah Bigot

In China, the more dumplings you consume equals the luckier your New Year's celebration will supposedly be. Challenge accepted? Make these authentic pork-stuffed dumpling buns with a savory soup filling, and your family will keep asking for seconds.

06 of 07

Mexico: Mini Tamales

Mini Tamales
Blaine Moats

Mini Mexican appetizers to kick off New Year's Eve? Yes, please! These tasty tamales can be customized with savory pork, spicy shrimp, classic chicken, or cheesy queso. This traditional Mexican cuisine is cherished year-round, but it's especially enjoyed during holiday celebrations. Use a steamer basket to cook them to perfection.

07 of 07

Japan: Bahn Mi Noodle Bowl

Banh Mi Ramen Noodle Bowl
Blaine Moats

This protein-packed broth bowl is filled with Japanese ramen noodles for longevity in the New Year. Sriracha sauce and ginger add flavor to this 25-minute meal, while radishes and cucumber make a colorful and delicious garnish.

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