The Japanese New Year's food containing red-and-white kamaboko fish cakes is osechi ryōri.
Osechi ryōri is a collection of specially prepared dishes eaten during Shōgatsu, Japan's New Year. The foods are traditionally packed in layered, lacquered boxes called jūbako. Each ingredient carries symbolic meaning, such as longevity, fertility, prosperity, or protection.
Kamaboko, a processed fish cake, is commonly sliced into red-and-white pieces. In Japanese culture, red and white are auspicious colors, and the combination appears in ceremonies and celebratory foods. Other osechi items may include sweet black beans, herring roe, simmered vegetables, and rolled omelet.
Osechi was historically prepared in advance so household cooking could be reduced during the first days of the year. Today, families may make it at home, order it from department stores, or combine traditional dishes with modern regional and personal choices. Osechi is broader than any single recipe or ingredient.