This article appears as part of the Food Matters newsletter.

Despite the long dreary nights and a stark lack of festive fun, January is one of my favourite times of year.

I’ve spoken before about the joys of Christmas, and how the food traditions we share go far beyond squabbling over sprouts or the carving of turkeys.

It’s pure magic. But one week later, as the clock strikes 12 on December 31st, there’s the welcome feeling of another holiday season being put to bed, with a New Year full of the unknown lying ahead.

Then there are the resolutions, earnest promises to become a better, more well-rounded version of yourself over the next 12 months.

There’s a tricky tightrope to walk here. Anything overly ambitious sets you up for failure, while too easily achievable offers no satisfaction at all.

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Although characteristically late in working out a full list, this week I thought I’d share five of my foodie resolutions with you to encourage a sense of accountability:

1) Try a greasy, golden delicacy.

While working at the Glasgow Times, the revelation that I had never heard of, let alone tried, a fritter from a chippy caused quite a stir. 2024 is the year I put an end to the ridicule by seeking out the celebrated fried snack for myself.

2) Be more adventurous.

I’m lucky enough to visit all manner of new and exciting restaurants for work. But when it comes to dining out on my own time? I’m a huge creature of habit. Yes, the number 4 from Sugo is a surefire winner, and the corn ribs from Ka Pao are always worth the journey to the West End, but it’s time to branch out.

3) Practise pronunciation.

At the ripe old age of 27, it is no longer acceptable to point to the wine list sheepishly and say ‘this one here’ in the presence of an unimpressed waiter. This year I will learn to pronounce even the most obscure varieties of grape, accent and all. Any drinking will therefore be done in the name of education, of course.

4) Stop pretending to like pungent blue cheese or sickly mint chocolate at the end of a meal.

It’s not big, it’s not clever and my poker face is abysmal. It’s time to just say no.

5) Explore more.

Having almost ruined Christmas by missing the last bus home to the Western Isles this year, it’s fair to say that travel planning is not my greatest strength. But there are hundreds of talented food and drink producers waiting to be discovered across Scotland and now is the time to do so. Provided I remember to check the timetable.

Seems doable, right?

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As ever, if you have any suggestions for stories that deserve our attention in the coming months, please don’t think twice about getting in touch by emailing sarah.campbell@newsquest.co.uk.

Until then, Happy New Year and may all your resolutions, big or small, be fruitful.