Savoring Good Fortune: The Global Symbolism of the Pig and Local New Year Traditions
As the New Year approaches, traditions steeped in symbolism take center stage. This time, let's embark on a journey exploring the global symbolism of the pig and dive into Western Pennsylvania’s cherished New Year's tradition of enjoying pork and sauerkraut… paired with Lucky Sign Spirits!
The Pig: A Universal Symbol of Prosperity and Good Fortune
Across cultures and continents, the pig holds a special place as a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and abundance. From the Chinese zodiac's Year of the Pig to European folklore associating pigs with wealth, this creature signifies a bountiful year ahead.
Pennsylvania's Pork and Sauerkraut Tradition: A Tasty Tale of Good Luck
In Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania, the New Year's table is graced by a beloved tradition: indulging in pork and sauerkraut. Rooted in German heritage, this culinary custom comes from the Pennsylvania Dutch and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
In the early days of Pennsylvania Dutch settlement, fresh pork became a prime choice for Christmas and New Year's meals due to the winter hog butchering season. The timing aligned with practicality, making it a staple for festive celebrations. Sauerkraut was served as a side during cabbage harvesting season in winter.
But this tradition goes beyond practicality—it's a belief in good luck for the year ahead. Pigs, known for rooting forward, symbolize moving into a new year with optimism. And sauerkraut is made with cabbage, which is symbolically linked to riches, prosperity and a long life due to its long strands.
Adding a contemporary touch to this holiday staple, some Pennsylvanians incorporate hot dogs into the dish. While the reasons are unclear, it could be an Americanized version of kielbasa or other Eastern European sausages. Or it might simply be a way to make the meal more kid-friendly, blending modern tastes with age-old traditions.
Lucky Sign Pairings for Your New Year's Celebration
Aquavit with Pork and Sauerkraut: The caraway-infused notes of Lucky Sign's award-winning Aquavit perfectly complement the flavors of sauerkraut.
Winking Devil Cinnamon Bourbon with Sweet and Spicy Pork: For those seeking a sweet and spicy twist, pair Winking Devil Cinnamon Bourbon with a dish featuring sweet glazes or spicy rubs on pork.
Toast to Prosperity: A Lucky New Year Awaits
As you gather with loved ones to savor pork and sauerkraut, let Lucky Sign Spirits be the catalyst for a New Year filled with good fortune and extraordinary flavors. Toast to the universal symbolism of the pig and cabbage and embrace Pittsburgh's culinary traditions, creating a feast that promises prosperity and luck in every bite.