25+ Delectable Chinese New Year Banquet Recipes to Celebrate in Style

Chinese New Year is one of the most anticipated celebrations around the world, marked by vibrant traditions, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food.

During this festive occasion, a grand banquet featuring a variety of dishes is a central part of the celebration.

The food served during the Chinese New Year banquet is rich in symbolism, representing good fortune, prosperity, longevity, and happiness for the coming year.

From savory meat dishes to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the table.

If you’re hosting a Chinese New Year feast or simply want to add more flavor to your celebration, having a collection of tried-and-true recipes will make the process a lot easier.

Whether you’re looking to prepare traditional classics or put a modern twist on old favorites, our list of 25+ Chinese New Year Banquet Recipes offers something for every taste and occasion.

These recipes will not only fill your table with delicious flavors but also bring joy, health, and fortune into the new year.

25+ Delectable Chinese New Year Banquet Recipes to Celebrate in Style

A Chinese New Year banquet is a time for celebration, family, and community.

The food you prepare plays a significant role in welcoming the new year and ensuring that it’s filled with prosperity and happiness.

With these 25+ Chinese New Year Banquet Recipes, you’ll be able to create a memorable feast that’s both traditional and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a large gathering or a small family dinner, these recipes will help you create a spread that embodies the rich cultural heritage of this joyous occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and prepare to usher in a year of abundance, good luck, and endless joy.

Braised Pork Belly with Soy Sauce

Braised pork belly is a beloved dish often served during Chinese New Year, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. The rich, tender meat pairs beautifully with a savory-sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and a variety of aromatic spices. This dish is typically enjoyed with steamed white rice, making it the perfect centerpiece for a celebratory banquet. Its deep flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a crowd favorite at any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pork belly, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 scallions, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork belly cubes and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the pork and set aside. In the same pot, add the garlic and ginger and cook for about 2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Add the pork belly back to the pot, then pour in the water.
4. Add the star anise, cinnamon stick, and Shaoxing wine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the dish simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the pork belly is tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Once the pork belly is fully cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.

Braised Pork Belly with Soy Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year with its comforting aroma and indulgent taste. The tender pork, slow-cooked to perfection in a savory-sweet sauce, makes it a standout dish for any festive banquet. This dish not only promises to satisfy your guests’ appetites but also symbolizes wealth and prosperity for the year ahead.

Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Fish is a symbol of abundance and prosperity in Chinese culture, making it an essential part of the Chinese New Year banquet. Steamed whole fish, typically served whole with head and tail intact, represents completeness and good fortune. This dish is simple yet elegant, flavored with fresh ginger, scallions, and a light soy sauce-based broth, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole fish (about 2 pounds, such as snapper or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
• 3 slices ginger, julienned
• 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry. Place the fish on a heatproof dish that will fit into your steamer.
2. Stuff the cavity of the fish with half of the ginger and scallions. Place the remaining ginger and scallions on top of the fish.
3. Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the dish with the fish into the steamer and steam for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and the flesh is tender.
4. While the fish is steaming, in a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook for about 3 minutes until the sauce is warmed through and the sugar has dissolved.
5. Once the fish is cooked, carefully remove it from the steamer and pour the soy sauce mixture over the fish. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a flavorful and light dish that represents abundance and good fortune for the New Year. The delicate steam cooking method preserves the fish’s natural flavor, while the ginger and scallions provide a fragrant and aromatic finish. This dish is a beautiful and meaningful addition to any Chinese New Year banquet, bringing both elegance and symbolism to the table.

Longevity Noodles with Vegetables and Mushrooms

Longevity noodles are an essential dish during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing long life and good health. This dish features long, unbroken noodles, often stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and mushrooms. The combination of textures and flavors, along with a savory sauce, makes it both a nourishing and celebratory dish. The noodles are typically enjoyed by all guests, as sharing this dish is thought to bring blessings of long life.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz longevity noodles or any long Chinese noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 scallions, chopped for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, bell pepper, and shiitake mushrooms. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the wok, followed by the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are well-coated with the sauce.
5. Garnish the noodles with chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Longevity Noodles with Vegetables and Mushrooms is a delicious and symbolic dish perfect for a Chinese New Year banquet. The long noodles are a nod to long life, while the variety of colorful vegetables and earthy mushrooms add depth and nourishment. This dish not only provides a flavorful addition to the table but also carries the blessing of health and longevity for all who partake.

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork is a quintessential dish in Chinese New Year celebrations, bringing a delightful balance of flavors to the table. The crispy pork is coated in a tangy, vibrant sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup, creating a mouthwatering contrast between sweet and sour. Served with colorful bell peppers and onions, this dish is not only delicious but visually striking, making it a perfect choice for a festive banquet where food is as much about presentation as it is about flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, dip the pork cubes into the beaten egg, then dredge them in cornstarch, ensuring an even coating.
3. Fry the pork in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and water. Pour the sauce into the pan with the vegetables, bringing it to a simmer.
6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce, stirring until it thickens.
7. Add the fried pork back into the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.

Sweet and Sour Pork is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Chinese New Year. The combination of crispy pork with a tangy sauce and colorful vegetables is both satisfying and eye-catching, making it a staple at any celebration. This dish symbolizes a balance of good fortune and prosperity, with its bright, appetizing flavors bringing joy to the table.

Dumplings

Dumplings are a must-have during Chinese New Year, as they symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to gold ingots. These dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and aromatic spices, and can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. They are often served as part of a larger feast, allowing guests to enjoy the ritual of eating these delicious treats while wishing each other a prosperous year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup Napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Dumpling wrappers (about 30-40)
• Vegetable oil for frying (if pan-frying)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, Napa cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Lay out a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
3. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a small amount of water and fold the wrapper over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.
4. To steam the dumplings, arrange them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper and steam for about 10 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. To pan-fry, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the dumplings and cook until the bottoms are golden brown. Then, add 1/4 cup of water to the pan and cover to steam for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve hot with soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Chinese New Year Dumplings are a symbol of good fortune and wealth, making them an essential dish for the holiday feast. Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are packed with flavor and offer a sense of warmth and tradition to the meal. Their round shape and savory filling are a reminder of the wealth and prosperity hoped for in the year to come, making them a beloved dish at any Chinese New Year celebration.

Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a traditional dish served during Chinese New Year to represent new beginnings, prosperity, and the hope for a fresh, prosperous year. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a delicious filling of seasoned pork, shrimp, and vegetables. These bite-sized delights are often dipped in sweet and sour sauce, making them a perfect appetizer for a festive banquet. The preparation of spring rolls is also a symbolic activity, as the rolling process is believed to bring blessings and fortune.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz ground pork
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
• 1/4 cup mushrooms, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 spring roll wrappers
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Sweet and sour sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the ground pork and shrimp to the skillet, cooking until the pork is browned and the shrimp are pink.
3. Add the cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling into the center. Fold the sides in and then roll tightly to seal the wrapper.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve the spring rolls with sweet and sour dipping sauce on the side.

Chinese New Year Spring Rolls are a delightful, crispy appetizer symbolizing the hope for a prosperous year ahead. Filled with savory ingredients and encased in a golden, crunchy wrapper, these spring rolls add a delicious start to any banquet. Their crisp texture and flavorful filling make them a beloved dish that is both meaningful and satisfying, perfect for celebrating the holiday with family and friends.

Braised Chicken with Chestnuts

Braised Chicken with Chestnuts is a rich and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with sweet, nutty chestnuts in a savory, aromatic sauce. This dish is especially popular during Chinese New Year as it symbolizes family unity and prosperity. The chestnuts add a unique texture and sweetness to the savory chicken, making it an ideal dish for a festive banquet. Braising the chicken ensures that it soaks up all the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a tender, flavorful meal that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup chestnuts, peeled and pre-cooked
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 slices ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or wok over medium-high heat. Add ginger, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon stick, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
3. Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar, mixing well.
4. Add the chestnuts and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Braise the chicken for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. If the sauce needs thickening, dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve the braised chicken and chestnuts hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Braised Chicken with Chestnuts is a heartwarming and flavorful dish that makes an excellent centerpiece for any Chinese New Year banquet. The tender chicken and sweet chestnuts pair perfectly with the rich, savory sauce, creating a comforting dish that embodies the spirit of family and good fortune. This dish not only delights the palate but also brings a sense of tradition and prosperity to the holiday feast.

Noodles (Longevity Noodles)

Longevity Noodles are a staple in Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing long life and good health. The long, unbroken strands of noodles represent the wish for a long and prosperous future. This dish is simple yet flavorful, with noodles stir-fried in a savory sauce, accompanied by vegetables and often chicken, shrimp, or pork. It is a perfect dish for a festive banquet as it is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz longevity noodles (or any long, thin noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. If using, add the cooked chicken and stir to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables and chicken, then pour the sauce over the top. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated and heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Chinese New Year Noodles (Longevity Noodles) are not just a delicious dish but a meaningful tradition during the holiday season. Their long strands symbolize long life and health, making them a beloved part of the New Year feast. The savory stir-fry, combined with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauce, brings a sense of joy and prosperity to the table. This dish is a perfect way to celebrate the new year while wishing for a prosperous and healthy future.

Fish (Whole Steamed Fish)

Serving a whole steamed fish during Chinese New Year symbolizes abundance and prosperity. The fish, often a symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture, is typically served whole to represent unity and completeness in the family. This dish is traditionally prepared with fresh fish, steamed with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, which enhances its delicate flavor. It is a dish that brings wishes of prosperity and good luck for the coming year.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole fish (such as tilapia or bass), cleaned and gutted
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make two diagonal cuts on each side of the fish.
2. Place the fish on a heatproof plate suitable for steaming.
3. Stuff the fish’s cavity with the ginger and garlic slices.
4. Pour the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil over the fish.
5. Prepare a steamer or bring a large pot of water to a boil. Place the plate with the fish into the steamer and cover. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the flesh is tender.
6. After steaming, sprinkle the fish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for garnish. Serve immediately.

Chinese New Year Fish is a symbolic dish that represents wealth and good fortune. The delicate, tender fish, complemented by the savory sauce, is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a meaningful part of the holiday feast. Serving a whole fish encourages family unity and signals a year of abundance. This dish is a beautiful way to celebrate the new year while hoping for prosperity and success in the year ahead.

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork is a beloved dish that combines crispy pork with a tangy, sweet sauce made from vinegar, ketchup, and sugar. It’s a classic dish often served during Chinese New Year banquets as it symbolizes happiness and wealth. The combination of crispy pork and vibrant vegetables in a glossy sauce brings both flavor and color to the table. Its balance of sweet and sour flavors makes it a popular choice for guests of all ages, ensuring it’s a highlight of the festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Coat the pork cubes in cornstarch, making sure they are evenly covered.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Fry the pork cubes in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In another pan, stir-fry the onions, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
4. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture into the pan with the vegetables, and bring it to a simmer.
5. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken the sauce. Once the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, add the fried pork cubes and toss everything together to coat the pork in the sauce.
6. Serve the sweet and sour pork hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.

Sweet and Sour Pork is a dish that captures the festive spirit of Chinese New Year. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy pork, creating a flavor-packed dish that everyone will enjoy. Its vibrant colors and balanced flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its symbolic meaning of happiness and wealth ties it to the celebration of a prosperous year. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, this dish will surely bring joy to the table.

Steamed Scallops with Garlic and Vermicelli

Steamed Scallops with Garlic and Vermicelli is a delicacy that brings a touch of elegance and flavor to any Chinese New Year banquet. The scallops, tender and juicy, are steamed to perfection with a garlic-infused sauce and served over delicate vermicelli noodles. This dish is often prepared to symbolize abundance, with the scallops representing wealth and the noodles symbolizing longevity. It is a light yet flavorful dish, offering a sophisticated balance of savory and aromatic notes.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 fresh scallops, cleaned and shells opened
• 1/4 cup vermicelli noodles
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Soak the vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 15 minutes, then drain.
2. Place a few tablespoons of soaked vermicelli on the bottom of a heatproof dish. Arrange the cleaned scallops on top of the noodles.
3. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour the sauce over the scallops.
5. Steam the scallops and vermicelli in a steamer for about 6-8 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through.
6. Remove from the steamer, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.

Steamed Scallops with Garlic and Vermicelli is a dish that combines elegance with tradition, making it a fantastic choice for Chinese New Year. The delicate scallops, complemented by the savory sauce and tender noodles, create a meal that is both satisfying and full of symbolism. The dish represents wealth, abundance, and longevity, making it a perfect addition to a festive banquet. Its simplicity, paired with its depth of flavor, makes it a dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings, or Jiaozi, are one of the most iconic dishes for Chinese New Year. They symbolize wealth and prosperity, as their shape resembles ancient gold ingots. Traditionally, they are filled with ground meat, cabbage, and spices, then boiled or pan-fried for a crispy, golden exterior. Whether served as appetizers or part of the main meal, these dumplings are a must-have for any Chinese New Year celebration, bringing good luck and fortune to all who enjoy them.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/2 lb ground pork or beef
• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water for boiling or oil for pan-frying

Instructions:

1. To make the dough, combine the flour and warm water in a bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a rough dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the ground meat, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and seasoning.
3. Roll the dough into a long log and cut into small pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
4. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges together, forming a pleated seam.
5. To boil, bring a pot of water to a boil and gently drop the dumplings in. Cook for 6-8 minutes until they float to the surface. To pan-fry, heat oil in a pan, then fry the dumplings until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve with dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil.

Chinese New Year Dumplings are a delightful and meaningful dish that brings both tradition and flavor to the table. Their shape, resembling gold ingots, symbolizes wealth and prosperity, making them a perfect choice for the holiday feast. Whether boiled or pan-fried, the savory filling encased in soft or crispy dough provides a comforting bite that embodies good fortune for the year ahead. Sharing dumplings with family and friends makes for a joyful, festive occasion that highlights the importance of unity and togetherness during the new year celebrations.

Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs (狮子头)

Lion’s Head Meatballs (狮子头) is a traditional Chinese dish that is often served during Chinese New Year, symbolizing strength, prosperity, and family unity. These large, tender meatballs are made from ground pork, flavored with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, and then braised in a savory broth until they are incredibly tender. The dish is named after the large, round meatballs that resemble a lion’s head, a symbol of protection and good fortune. Often served with leafy greens like bok choy, this dish represents both wealth and longevity.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork (preferably with some fat)
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2-3 bok choy or napa cabbage leaves, blanched
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ginger, garlic, water chestnuts, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, egg, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and sticky.
2. Form the pork mixture into large, round meatballs, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
3. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, bring chicken stock, soy sauce, and oyster sauce to a simmer. Carefully add the meatballs and simmer them in the broth for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve the braised meatballs on a plate, topped with blanched bok choy or napa cabbage. Pour some of the braising liquid over the meatballs and garnish with chopped green onions.

Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs is a hearty and symbolic dish that brings both flavor and significance to any Chinese New Year banquet. The rich, tender meatballs paired with the savory broth represent both prosperity and the strength of family bonds, making it an essential dish for festive gatherings. This dish embodies the essence of Chinese culinary traditions, where every ingredient has a purpose and meaning, and it is sure to bring good fortune to all who partake in it.

Cantonese Style Roast Duck

Cantonese Style Roast Duck is a traditional Chinese dish that is often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for its symbolic meaning of happiness and prosperity. The duck is marinated with a combination of spices and then roasted until golden brown and crispy. The meat is succulent and flavorful, with a rich, savory glaze that complements the crispy skin. Roast duck is not only a feast for the taste buds but also represents the wealth and good fortune that the New Year promises. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by the entire family, making it a centerpiece of any festive meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole duck (about 4-5 lbs)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2-3 scallions, chopped
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat from the cavity.
3. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and scallions.
4. Rub the marinade all over the duck, ensuring the inside and outside are well-coated. Let the duck marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
5. Place the duck on a roasting rack in a baking dish, and pour the water into the bottom of the dish. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with the marinade to ensure it stays moist and develops a crispy skin.
6. Once the duck is golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. Serve with steamed buns or rice, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cantonese Style Roast Duck is a dish that elevates any Chinese New Year feast with its rich flavor, crispy skin, and tender meat. Symbolizing prosperity and happiness, it’s a perfect dish to serve to family and friends during the holiday. The combination of the sweet and savory marinade creates a beautiful glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the duck. Its crispy skin and juicy meat make it a crowd favorite, and it will surely become a highlight of your celebration.

Stir-Fried Shrimp with Garlic and Chives

Stir-fried Shrimp with Garlic and Chives is a light, flavorful dish that is often served during Chinese New Year to symbolize good fortune and happiness. Shrimp are considered a lucky food, as their Cantonese name sounds like the word for “laughter,” symbolizing joy and laughter in the coming year. The shrimp are stir-fried with aromatic garlic, chives, and a simple soy sauce-based seasoning, resulting in a dish that is savory, fragrant, and easy to prepare. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors and tender shrimp.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chives, cut into 2-inch lengths
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning them once, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. Stir in the chives and cook for another minute until they begin to soften.
4. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce mixture over the shrimp and stir well to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using) to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra chives or cilantro.

Stir-fried Shrimp with Garlic and Chives is a flavorful and festive dish that celebrates both the prosperity and joy of Chinese New Year. The shrimp, with their symbolic meaning of happiness and good fortune, are complemented by the aromatic garlic and fresh chives, creating a dish that is both simple and elegant. This dish is a perfect balance of savory flavors, and its vibrant colors make it an attractive addition to any holiday feast. Whether served as a main dish or part of a larger banquet, it is sure to bring good luck and smiles to all who enjoy it.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!