osechi ryori
Osechi ryori is a traditional Japanese New Year cuisine, typically prepared in advance and enjoyed during the first three days of January. It consists of various colorful dishes, each symbolizing good fortune, health, and prosperity for the coming year. The food is often presented in layered bento boxes called jubako, which are beautifully arranged to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Common ingredients in osechi ryori include kuromame (sweet black soybeans for health), kazunoko (herring roe for fertility), and tazukuri (candied sardines for a bountiful harvest). Families often share these dishes together, making it a time for celebration and reflection on the past year while looking forward to new beginnings.