It’s official, a New Year has begun bringing with it hopes for progress, health and prosperity. And did you know you can eat for good luck? Yes, it’s true. Cultures around the world feast on foods believed to help ensure good luck. With a little bit of research, I’ve cooked up a list of six ways to eat for good luck in 2018.
Fish (my personal favorite): This tradition finds its origin is in the motion of the fish. Eat those that swim forward representing progress. Additionally, scales resemble coins and are considered lucky in that way. But watch out. Backward-swimming fish such as lobsters should be avoided to stave off bad luck. The Chinese believe serving fish intact from head to tail brings good fortune for the entire year, beginning to end. (Tell that little tidbit to the server that is filleting your fish table side next time.)The Polish and German families believe serving fish at midnight preserves good luck all year. If your heritage doesn’t fall into any of these categories, I’d stick with the forward swimming fish—probably less cholesterol too.
Greens: Green, leafy vegetables also symbolize wealth, as their color can make us think of paper money. Cooked or in salads, they are a staple for any menu which is just one more reason to eat your greens.
Bountiful Beans: Once again it’s the coin-like shape that rings in prosperity for us. A popular dish to serve in a New Year’s meal includes beans. In the southern U.S., black-eyed peas are a traditional legume. In Brazil, lentils are paired with rice and in Hungary, beans are usually cooked in a soup. Italians are fond of green lentils with sausage or Cotechino con Lenticchie. Beans are always on a nutritionist’s list of top foods to eat since they contain a powerhouse of nutrients including antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, protein and fiber to name a few.
Pork: Pork is considered lucky for a couple of reasons. First, pigs are pudgy and thought to represent prosperity. Second, they always push their snouts forward in the ground in search of food, thought to represent progress. So if you are inclined to eat pork, enjoy your pork roast or pulled pork sandwiches while adding good luck to your plate.
Soba noodles: This one may take some practice and it sounds very fun. In Japan, soba noodles are popular because they symbolize long life. But there’s a catch. You have to cook and eat them without breaking even a single noodle. I’m definitely going to serve these noodles at my next dinner party.
Fruitful Feast: In Europe, South America, Mexico and the U.S. it’s customary to eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each month of the year. In the Philippines, the tradition is to eat 13 grapes, as that is a lucky number in the country. In Turkey and Greece, pomegranates are a healthy source of luck. The more seeds in the one you open, the better your luck will be throughout the year.
** The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the ownership or management of Chadds Ford Live. We welcome opposing viewpoints. Readers may comment in the comments section or they may submit a Letter to the Editor to editor@chaddsfordlive.com
About Jackie Tate
Jackie Tate has been working in the health and fitness industry for 25 years. She has a master’s of science degree in health education and a bachelor’s of science degree in nutrition, both from Penn State. Early in her career she was recruited by Johnson & Johnson to work in their diabetes division during which time she earned her diabetes educator certification. In 2009, she developed a health and wellness consulting business. Tate’s Wellness Company enables her to work with individuals to create personalized dietary plans using a one-on-one consultation approach. She conducts personal training sessions and leads fitness classes at Way Martial Arts in West Chester, Darlington Arts in Garnet Valley, and the Concord Country Club in Concord Township. Jackie is a certified fitness trainer, Silver Sneakers and zumba Instructor. Additionally, she teaches nutrition to students attending the Academy of International Ballet in Glen Mills. Lamb McErlane, PC is one of Jackie’s corporate clients where she delivers nutritious Lunch N Learn sessions for employees as part of their on-going commitment to wellness. Jackie has a passion for inspiring people to lead healthier lifestyles through optimal nutrition and fitness. Tate4foodandfitness.com Tate4foodandfitness@verizon.net
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