Every year is influenced by a certain element. The year 2024 will be the Year of the Wooden Dragon, which corresponds to the sour taste. This is important to consider not only on New Year's Eve but also throughout the year. Prefer products with a sour taste, which make us more active and patient. Such products include citrus fruits, sour apple varieties, currants, raspberries, cherries, lingonberries, chicken, duck, yogurt, kefir, white wine, cider, kvass, and rosehip tea.
On New Year's Eve, certain dishes must be present on the table, which, according to Eastern traditions, ensure well-being for the entire year.
Meat is a symbol of luck. It is best if it is chicken or duck. In China, for example, chicken legs are considered to attract luck and happiness, while duck symbolizes fidelity. If you decide to prepare dishes with chicken or duck, serve them with a red sauce, as the color red is associated with happiness.
Fish is a harbinger of prosperity, wealth, and harmony and should take center stage on the New Year's table. Ideally, it should be a whole fish rather than cut into pieces. It is believed that the person to whom the head of the fish is directed will be especially happy in the coming year.
Tangerines and oranges symbolize abundance and health. It is believed that the more you eat on New Year's Eve, the more wealth and health they will bring. It is recommended to place an even number of fruits in a vase, as even numbers (except for 4) are considered lucky in the East.
Nuts symbolize abundance. Walnuts are placed next to those who seek knowledge (walnuts are a symbol of wisdom), pine nuts are for those who are wished long life (pine nuts are a symbol of longevity), and almonds are for those who are wished youth and beauty (almonds are a symbol of sophistication).
Do not forget that the Dragon is a fire-breathing creature. Therefore, feel free to add various spices and seasonings to hot dishes to give them sharpness and piquancy.
Recommendations for all zodiac signs:
Aries. You need meat, considering your energy. However, do not forget about fresh vegetables and greens, which will help your liver cope with the load during the holidays. Try not to overindulge in alcohol, and it is better to exclude strong drinks from the menu.
Taurus. You are a true gourmet, and your main danger is overeating. As for snacks and hot dishes, you can eat everything (just reduce the portion), but it is better to refrain from pastries and sweets.
Gemini. Be careful and do not try to taste everything on the table (this can lead to poisoning). Avoid excessive consumption of citrus fruits to prevent allergies. However, any pastries can be eaten without restrictions.
Cancer. On New Year's Eve, the main thing is not to overdo it with spices and not to drink too much liquid (this can cause swelling in the morning). Consume fresh vegetables, and salads with mayonnaise should be in moderation.
Leo. It is better to avoid fatty meats and switch to fish. Citrus fruits can and should be eaten. Completely exclude strong alcoholic drinks and red wine; prefer rosé or white.
Virgo. Avoid heavy foods and do not overeat. Drink more plain water and get up from the table from time to time to move around. Try to eat less baked goods (if possible, refrain from bread), otherwise, digestive problems will be inevitable.
Libra. Do not overindulge in dishes with spices and sharp flavors. Be cautious with exotic products. A small piece won't hurt, but if you try a little of everything, you may face problems not only with your stomach but also with your kidneys.
Scorpio. On New Year's Eve, it will be hard to restrain yourself; your appetite may cause envy. Extra pounds gained now will be difficult to lose. Focus on fresh greens and vegetables, and it is better to refrain from fatty meats and sweets.
Sagittarius. It is impossible to be on a diet on New Year's Eve, but you need to exercise culinary caution. Fish, baked vegetables, and nuts are the perfect menu for this time. As a bonus, a small piece of low-fat pastry and only low-alcohol drinks.
Capricorn. Before sitting down at the festive table, drink a glass of water. Throughout the evening, try to drink more (naturally, not alcohol, but water). In general, you can allow yourself not to limit too much, except for salads with mayonnaise.
Aquarius. Reduce the amount of salt, drink in moderation, and add more vegetables and nuts. Strong alcohol is permissible in small quantities. It is important to avoid a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, so do not overeat. It is better to go outside or dance; this will help improve metabolism.
Pisces. Try everything that catches your eye, except for smoked and heavily fried foods. The main restriction for you is alcohol. Consume it in very small amounts and only weak drinks. Be careful with exotic fruits, as it is easy to get poisoned.
