Nytårstorsk is the Danish traditional New Year's Eve dinner centered on boiled cod.
The Danish word combines nytår, meaning “New Year,” with torsk, meaning “cod.” The dish is associated with a classic Danish New Year's meal and may be served with accompaniments such as mustard, horseradish, potatoes, or melted butter, depending on household and regional practice.
Food customs in Denmark vary, and modern celebrations may feature beef, fish, shellfish, or other festive menus instead. Nytårstorsk is therefore a traditional name rather than a rule that every Danish household follows. It is also distinct from smørrebrød, the country's famous open-faced sandwiches.
Danish New Year's Eve includes other recognizable customs, including speeches, champagne, fireworks, and the midnight singing of “Vær velkommen, Herrens år.” The meal's name is easy to misread as a general Danish Christmas dish, but it specifically identifies a New Year cod tradition.