As a symbol of wealth and prosperity, lentils are obligatory at any Italian New Year's dinner: Traditionally they are served with the zampone of Modena, or with boiled cotechino, and everyone eats at least a spoonful to ensure that the year will be prosperous for them. Lentils are produced in many areas of Italy, but the most sought-after are the small, quick-cooking ones grown at Castelluccio in Umbria.
