Tasty Traditions

With the New Year upon us, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a glass of bubbly and an assortment of lucky treats from near and far. These delightful traditions not only tantalize the taste buds but also bring wishes of prosperity, happiness, and health for the year ahead. Let’s take a journey through some of these cherished customs and flavors.

In Spain, the tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight is a must. Known as "Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte" (The Twelve Grapes of Luck), each grape represents a month of the year, and eating them in quick succession as the clock chimes twelve is said to bring good fortune. Pair your Cava with a plate of fresh grapes to add a dash of Spanish flair to your celebration.

For a French twist, delight your guests with a petit gougère. These airy cheese puffs, made with Gruyère or Comté, are a staple of French cuisine and a symbol of indulgence and celebration. Their golden color and light texture make them the perfect accompaniment to a great flute of bubbles. Originally from Burgundy, these delightful bites are often enjoyed during festive gatherings where French culinary traditions are on high display. What to pair and pour? Bien sûr, its a glass of Champagne.

Italian burrata adds creamy decadence to your New Year’s table. This luscious cheese, with its delicate outer shell and rich, creamy center, pairs beautifully with a lovely glass of Prosecco. Burrata symbolizes abundance and the pleasure of sharing good food with loved ones, a sentiment perfectly suited to ushering in a prosperous New Year. Grapes make another appearance in this Italian inspired treat as you can never have enough good luck!

No New Year's celebration would be complete without a nod to Japan’s tradition of mochi. The process of making mochi, known as mochitsuki, is a time-honored ritual that brings family and friends together to celebrate unity and renewal. Symbolizing strength, longevity, and good luck, Mochi is often eaten during the Japanese New Year in a soup called ozoni. But with different fillings, Mochi can be served at dessert to balance the savory delights on your menu.

Cheers to a year filled with health, love, laughter, and a little bit of luck!