Čočková Polévka (Lentil Soup): Eating lentils on New Year’s Day is believed to bring prosperity and wealth, as the lentils symbolize coins. The soup is often hearty, made with vegetables and sometimes smoked meat.
Kapr (Carp): Carp is a traditional Christmas and New Year’s dish in Czechia. It’s often breaded and fried, and sometimes, a scale from the fish is kept in wallets for good luck.
Svíčková na Smetaně (Marinated Beef Sirloin): A classic Czech dish, this consists of beef sirloin in a creamy vegetable sauce, typically served with bread dumplings.
Chlebíčky (Open-Faced Sandwiches): A popular party food, these small, decorative sandwiches are topped with a variety of ingredients like ham, cheese, eggs, and pickles.
Pečené Vepřové (Roast Pork): Often accompanied by sauerkraut and dumplings, roast pork is a festive and popular choice for New Year’s celebrations.
Vánočka (Christmas Bread): Although associated with Christmas, this braided bread made with raisins and almonds is also enjoyed during New Year’s.
Perník (Gingerbread): Spiced gingerbread, often intricately decorated, is a sweet treat that adds a festive touch to the New Year’s table.
Becherovka: A traditional Czech herbal liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestif after the New Year’s feast.
Sekta (Sparkling Wine): Toasting the New Year with a glass of sparkling wine is a common tradition, and Czech-produced Sekta is often the choice.
