We all strive for a sense of happiness, which everyone imagines differently. Therefore, it is not surprising that many world cultures also have some dishes in their culinary traditions that are said to have a particularly positive effect on the well-being and happiness of those who eat them.
A traditional Southern American dish, Hoppin' John, made from beans, is also said to increase wealth.
In Germany, Scandinavia and Poland, they swear by pickled salt.
From the American South to Europe, green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach and cabbage are considered bringers of wealth.
In Turkey, the pomegranate is a lucky fruit for several reasons. Its red color represents the human heart, life and fertility, its medicinal use health, and its abundant round seeds the prosperity of all that we hope will bring a new beginning.
The Chinese word for fish is said to sound similar to the word for abundance, making fish that must be served whole, from tail to head, a lucky dish.
In many places around the world, fruit in round shapes is considered a bringer of good luck. In Spain, they suggest eating 12 grapes for good luck, while in the Philippines thirteen is considered a lucky number.
In Cuba, Portugal, Hungary and Australia, piglets symbolize progress, as they always push forward with their snouts when eating and, as some claim, never move backwards.
Due to its golden color, cornbread is considered a bringer of abundance and luxury.
Hiding various "treasures" in cakes and desserts is a well-known tradition in many countries. Thus, in Greece, they hide a coin in a vasilopita cake, and Scandinavians hide an almond in a rice pudding. For the one who finds the "treasure", the future will be especially happy.
If some foods bring happiness, others are said to have the opposite effect. So, for example, a salmon moves backward downstream, signifying setback and failure. Also, the chicken is supposed to symbolize the regret of past events, and the feathers are the runaway happiness that flies away too quickly.
In Japan, China and some other Asian countries, a long noodle dish brings long life.
