New Year's Eve is not just the end of one year and the start of another; it's also, for many, about food, family, and traditions. For 2025, chefs and home cooks alike are gearing up to prepare their culinary masterpieces, often rooted deeply in nostalgia and time-honored recipes.
At the heart of New Year's culinary preparations are traditional dishes such as salad Olivier and herring under fur coat, classics loved across Russia. These festive foods stand out at every celebration, attracting guests with their vibrant colors and diverse flavors.
Chef Yegor Dudnik, head of the culinary group B&P Family, highlighted the emotional significance of food during the New Year festivities. “Everyone has childhood memories of how they welcomed the New Year,” he stated, making it clear how integral food is to the holiday spirit. For many, the mere thought of these dishes evokes strong feelings of nostalgia and comfort.
Among the notable dishes making appearances on tables might be baked duck, renowned for its rich flavor and festive appearance. “When it's served hot and beautifully garnished, it creates an atmosphere of celebration,” Dudnik noted. This dish, often reserved for special occasions, symbolizes the joy and abundance of the New Year.
Dudnik also stressed the importance of balance when preparing salad Olivier. He recommends equal proportions of its ingredients—be it boiled potatoes, pickles, or meats such as ham or chicken—ensuring each flavor shines through without overwhelming others. “For example, if I use 100 grams of sausage, I also add 100 grams each of peas, eggs, and potatoes,” he explained, showcasing his expertise as a culinary artist.
Modern adaptations of these cherished dishes are also on the rise. Many cooks are experimenting with techniques, such as roasting vegetables instead of boiling them to intensify their flavor. “Roasted vegetables add unique aromas and taste, making salads more delightful,” Dudnik said, illustrating how even time-tested recipes can evolve.
Seasonality plays a significant role during the New Year, with ingredients highlighting what's currently fresh and available. Mandarins, for example, often find their way onto holiday tables, inspiring exclusive seasonal desserts. Each year, Dudnik's establishment introduces mandarin-inspired desserts like mandarin éclairs based on this citrus's popularity around the New Year.
Family traditions guide many chefs' holiday menus, where food isn't just about sustenance but emotional connections forged among family gatherings. Dudnik expressed, “New Year must be welcomed with family.” The act of sharing homemade dishes with loved ones not only reinforces familial bonds but also keeps cultural traditions alive, providing younger generations with memories they may later pass down.
Though culinary trends may come and go, Dudnik affirmed the enduring appeal of classic dishes, remarking, “Classic dishes will remain a priority because they create the atmosphere of New Year's magic.” The simple yet heartfelt herring under fur coat and the beloved salad Olivier are often staples of many Russian dinners during this time.
Finally, Dudnik emphasized the importance of responding to guests' preferences for holiday meals. He noted, “Everything included on the menu caters to the taste preferences of Armavir residents.” By doing so, he ensures each dish prepared resonates with diners' expectations, fostering satisfaction and creating memorable holiday experiences.
Gathering around the table on New Year's Eve, with its feast of traditional delights and the warmth of family, is what many cherish most. The preparations may seem like simple acts of cooking, but each dish delivered is laden with history, love, and the hopes for the year to come.