CLEVELAND, Ohio – For many families across the Midwest and Appalachia, New Year’s Day isn’t complete without pork and sauerkraut. This custom, deeply tied to German and Eastern European heritage, is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
While the tradition has deep cultural roots, it’s also a matter of taste. For some, the tangy sauerkraut and savory pork are simply the perfect pairing to start the year.
Cultural Roots of the Tradition
The custom is especially strong among Pennsylvania Dutch and German-American communities, but it has spread widely in states like Ohio, where German immigrants settled generations ago.
Sauerkraut was a practical winter food for immigrants because it could be preserved without refrigeration and became a staple for holiday meals. In some parts of Ohio and Pennsylvania, mashed potatoes or dumplings are served alongside pork and sauerkraut for extra comfort.
Why Pork and Sauerkraut Are Considered Lucky
The tradition is rich with symbolism for those seeking a little extra luck in the New Year…