From Lunar New Year dumplings to Longevity Noodles, celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a Lunar New Year feast of fortune.
Embracing the tradition of a lavish Lunar New Year feast is a vibrant celebration across Asia.
In China, the festive ambiance includes red lanterns, auspicious door decorations, and even firecrackers to ward off evil, as Timothy SY Lam Museum of Anthropology enlightens us.
The eve before the new year witnesses families bidding adieu to the old and welcoming the new amidst these lively traditions.
However, at the heart of it all, the focal point for many is relishing a special meal with loved ones.
According to Food and Wine, this time is all about friends and family coming together to indulge in dishes that symbolize good fortune for the impending year.
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Lunar New Year Dumplings
Ready, Set, Eat reveals that dumplings take center stage during Chinese New Year. Resembling money pouches, they are believed to signify fortune and prosperity.
Beyond their symbolic significance, making dumplings is a family affair, as they are meticulously mixed by hand to ensure a unique texture—soft, yet resilient.
Lawei (Cured Meats)
Serious Eats shares that across China, streets adorn cured meats as part of the Lunar New Year preparations.
Harking back to ancient sacrifices, the tradition of drying and curing meats continues in many modern Chinese households.
Salt-cured pork, preserved duck, and rich sausages hang as unique New Year decorations. These are ready to be enjoyed as cold dishes reminiscent of a French charcuterie plate.
Longevity Noodles
Longevity noodles, as per Travel China Guide, hold a special place in Chinese New Year festivities.
Typically consumed during important festivals or birthdays, they symbolize the smoothness anticipated in the coming year.
Whole Chicken
According to China Highlights, chicken takes center stage on reunion dinner tables.
Chicken sounds like ji (吉), signifying “good luck” and “prosperity,” it becomes a cherished dish at reunion dinners. Furthermore, families serve it whole to symbolize both good fortune and unity.
Traditionally, families offer ancestors and gods a whole chicken, braised or roasted with simple ingredients like ginger or soy, to seek blessings and protection.
Oranges and Other Citrus
Taste of Home reveals that people cherish oranges, kumquats, tangerines, and pomelos as Chinese New Year gifts.
Believed to bring good luck and happiness, their names closely resemble words for luck and wealth. The golden color adds an extra layer, symbolizing prosperity.
As you prepare your menu for the Year of the Dragon, let these culinary delights be your guide to a year filled with fortune and good vibes.
Happy Chinese New Year!
Banner photo by Angela Roma via Pexels.
