Toshikoshi soba
Toshikoshi soba (年越し蕎麦) is a traditional Japanese noodle bowl dish eaten on ōmisoka (New Year's Eve, 31 December).[1]
This custom is intended to enable the household to let go of the year’s hardship because soba noodles are easily cut while eating.
History
[edit]The custom differs from area to area and it is also called misoka soba, tsugomori soba, kure soba, jumyō soba, fuku soba, and unki soba.[2] The tradition started around the Edo period (1603-1867), and there are several traditions that long soba noodles symbolize a long life.[3] The buckwheat plant can survive severe weather during its growth period, and so soba represents strength and resilience.
See also
[edit]- Ōmisoka, the Japanese New Year's Eve
- Japanese cuisine
References
[edit]- ^ Bill Daley, "New Year's Eve noodles: A savory end to the old year", Chicago Tribune
- ^ In Japanese misoka, tsugomori, and kure all here designate New Year's Eve; jumyō means lifespan; fuku and unki both means happiness.
- ^ Bill Daley, "A savory end to the old year: Soba caps busy New Year's Eve", December 29, 2010, Chicago Tribune