5 unique New Year's food traditions across the world

New Year's Day is a time of celebration and brings many together. In addition to sharing laughter and reflecting on the past year, many of us sit down to share delicacies. Every year, people from different cultures celebrate end-of-year festivities with unique food traditions around the globe.

From Kamaboko in Japan to rice cakes in the Philippines, there are traditional dishes unique to each culture. We take a look at 5 unique New Year's food traditions.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer’s opinion. Do comment with your suggestions to let us know which other items deserve to make the list.

Festivities bring people together, including preparing good food. (Image via Pexels/ Nicole Michalou)

5 New Year's food traditions across the world that usher in prosperity

A part of celebrating festivals can be cooking. (Image via Pexels/ RDNE)

Food can go beyond being part of daily meals. It can foster connection and also thread traditions over the years. Here are some food traditions that are celebrated across the world during the New Year's:

1. Twelve grapes, Spain

The twelve grapes trend has become viral on social media. It may have undergone certain variations, including eating 12 grapes under the table to attract a lover. The food tradition goes back to the 20th Century in Spain where citizens would eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes midnight. The aim was to eat grapes to welcome prosperity and joy for each month of the year.

2. Homemade Tamales, Mexico

Homemade Tamales are a traditional recipe from Mexico and make an appearance in most festivities. A rich stuffing is placed in a corn dough and wrapped in corn husk or a banana leaf. This enhances and keeps the flavor-packed.

3. Sticky rice cakes, Philippines

In many cultures, rice is seen as a form of abundance and is especially made during the festive season. In the Philippines, rice takes the form of sweet or savory sticky rice cakes. These delicacies represent the 'stickiness' between family bonds and are an ode to rice.

4. Kamaboko, Japan

People in Japan create special boxes with festive foods for New Year's, including the Kamaboko. These are dome-shaped fish cakes that are traditionally served with Miso or soy-based soups. They are served with vegetables and mochi and are one of the first things that Japanese people eat for New Year's.

5. Olliebollen, Netherlands

The Olliebollen are sweet treats that are available throughout the year in the Netherlands. According to folklore, the sweet dough balls protect citizens from the 'Christmas Witch.' The filling of the balls may vary but generally contain dry fruits and chopped apples.

People across the world are celebrating New Year's in their own style. However, one thing that connects people globally is the love for food. Whether you are learning to cook, or an experienced chef, foods connects us all. Traditional recipes are a testament to this connection.

Which food traditions have you seen before during New Year's celebration? Tell us in the comments below.