The Christmas Eve supper has an extraordinary message – the miracle of new life. That is why it is worth reflecting on the past year and starting to fix what was not entirely successful. The dishes served on Christmas Eve are intended to help us achieve this.
In the past, 7 dishes were served on Christmas Evewhich were supposed to mean the number of days in the week. Moreover, the number seven is a symbol of perfection. After some time, 9 dishes were served identified with the number of angelic choirs.
Later still, this number changed to 12 and remains to this day. Its meaning is religious and symbolizes the 12 apostles. Some, however, believe that it refers to the number of months in the year.
It is also worth remembering about tradition of trying all 12 dishes on Christmas Eve. Then we will be able to count on good luck in the new year.
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Christmas Eve dishes may vary slightly depending on the region of Poland. Therefore, it is worth mentioning the 12 most popular dishes in our country with unique symbolism. Which ones are we talking about?
This soup is served on Christmas Eve symbolizes health, vitality and sobriety of mind.
It is made from beetroot, so it is supposed to provide beauty. Apart from that these vegetables signify good luck and prosperity. They also guarantee a long and healthy life.
On the Christmas Eve table there must be fish, especially carp. It is identified with fertility and rebirth, however in a religious context with the resurrection and immortality of Christ. On the other hand cod, trout and herring signify fasting and waiting. They are also intended to ensure prosperity.
- Dumplings with cabbage and mushrooms
The cabbage and mushrooms themselves symbolize prosperity. Dumplings with this stuffing they are supposed to give supernatural powers and strength for the next year. Therefore, they have a magical meaning.
The wheat from which this dish is made means immortality. In turn, we identify almonds with wisdom and joy. The dish itself is intended to facilitate reconciliation with God and the dead.
Poppy seeds may be associated with death and end, but in fact they mean help. It also symbolizes harvest and abundance.
This dish is supposed to protect us against diseases and provide vitality. The pea itself is a symbol of fertility and abundance.
The dried compote contains apples, which they mean harvest and redemptionand at the same time love and power. Pear symbolizes wealth and abundance, while figs symbolize the deep relationship of the spouses and victory. The next ingredient is fig guaranteeing safety and apricots ensuring a long and happy life.
Bread is a symbol of friendship and hospitality. It connects people and provides success, abundance and wisdom.
Its main ingredient is, of course, poppy seeds, which, thanks to milk, connects the living and the dead. The dough is additionally enriched with nuts heralds fertility, vitality, happiness and peaceful sleep.
This bake symbolizes prosperity and success. Plums, which we often add to it, drive away evil spirits and ensure harmony of the mind.
Yeast cake, yeast cake or yeast pancakes are baked from flour, which… it predicts prosperity and fulfillment of dreams. If we fry pancakes in deep oil, we can count on good luck in the new year.
