Chinese New Year: Exploring the Dragon Year delicacies
What's the story
China kicked off its Lunar New Year festivities on February 10, marking the beginning of a two-week-long celebration that culminates in the Lantern Festival on February 24.
The Chinese zodiac celebrates the auspicious day with the majestic dragon, symbolizing good fortune, strength, and vitality. This adds meaning to the celebrations.
Let's explore the traditional delicacies that grace this year of the dragon.
Longevity noodles
Long-life noodles
Include Changzhou main, or "long-life noodles," in your Chinese New Year celebration.
They can stretch up to two feet in length and are believed to bring good luck according to Chinese tradition. The longer the noodle, the luckier the eater is thought to be.
However, take care not to accidentally break a noodle while cooking, as it is considered unlucky.
Tray of togetherness
New year candy box
The round Tray of Togetherness is a platter of sweets typically divided into six or eight compartments, used to welcome visiting guests on Lunar New Year.
It serves as a symbol of peace and familial unity. Fill this tray with a mix of delightful treats such as dried fruit, nuts, or candied fruits like coconut and orange alongside homemade ginger cookies, cupcakes and tarts.
Rice cakes
Nian Gao
The sticky rice cake combines glutinous rice flour, brown sugar, and water, enriched with ginger and orange zest for a unique taste. Steamed to perfection, it offers a chewy sweetness.
Variations include coconut milk for added flavor. Enjoy it sliced and fried for a crispy texture or steamed for a soft, indulgent treat.
This cherished dish is adored during the Lunar New Year festivities.
Sweet rice balls
Tangyan
This traditional Chinese desert is crafted from rice flour, formed into small dumpling-like balls, and served in hot syrup, embodying the essence of familial bonds and the spirit of celebration during this auspicious time.
Typically enjoyed on the eve of the Lunar New Year, Tang Yuan holds a special place in the Lantern Festival celebrations, a distinct festival separate from the Lunar New Year.
Jiaozi
Dumplings
Jiaozi is a traditional Chinese dumpling stuffed with veggies, and other fillings wrapped in thin dough. You can cook it by boiling, steaming, shallow frying, or deep frying.
People often eat it with a tasty dip made of black vinegar and sesame oil, or in soup. It is a popular dish that is enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings.
Rice pudding
Ba Bao fan
Served traditionally at the conclusion of Lunar New Year dinners, this cherished Chinese delicacy adorns with eight symbolic treasures, such as seeds, nuts, and fruits like plums, jackfruit, and raisins.
The number eight holds auspicious significance in Chinese culture, signifying good fortune.
Other favored ingredients include red dates, lotus seeds, longan, walnuts, peanuts, and more, adding richness and flavor to this beloved dish.