25+ Authentic Chinese New Year Breakfast Recipes for a Festive Morning

Chinese New Year is one of the most anticipated celebrations across the world, filled with festive traditions, delicious food, and heartfelt wishes for the year ahead.

In Chinese culture, food plays a vital role in symbolizing prosperity, good health, and happiness.

Breakfast, as the first meal of the day, holds a special significance during the festivities.

From savory dumplings to sweet rice cakes, the wide array of dishes enjoyed on Chinese New Year morning brings families together and sets a positive tone for the day.

If you’re looking for creative and tasty ways to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year with your loved ones, look no further.

This article will present 25+ Chinese New Year breakfast recipes that will infuse your morning with good fortune and delicious flavors.

Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, these recipes will give you the perfect start to the New Year, ensuring you enjoy the most important meal of the day in style.

25+ Authentic Chinese New Year Breakfast Recipes for a Festive Morning

Chinese New Year breakfast recipes are more than just a way to start the day—they’re an important part of the celebrations, steeped in tradition and meaning.

From the symbolism of longevity noodles to the delicious, prosperity-bringing dumplings, these 25+ Chinese New Year breakfast recipes will help you create a memorable meal to share with your family.

Whether you’re cooking up a storm or trying something new, the right dish can bring both joy and good fortune into your home.

So, why not make this year’s Chinese New Year breakfast extra special with a feast that honors tradition, tastes amazing, and sets the stage for a year filled with blessings?

Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Scallion pancakes, or “Cong You Bing,” are a traditional Chinese dish perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year. These crispy and savory pancakes are infused with the aromatic flavor of scallions, making them a delicious and satisfying breakfast option. Their flaky texture and rich taste symbolize prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 bunch of scallions, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the hot water, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a shaggy dough. Add the cold water and continue to stir until the dough comes together.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle.
4. Add the Scallions: Brush each circle with vegetable oil and sprinkle evenly with chopped scallions and a pinch of salt.
5. Form the Pancakes: Roll each circle into a log, then coil the log into a spiral. Flatten each spiral with your hand and roll it out again into a thin pancake.
6. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Cut the pancakes into wedges and serve hot.

Scallion pancakes are a delightful addition to any Chinese New Year breakfast spread. Their crispy layers and savory scallion flavor make them a favorite among both children and adults. Enjoy these pancakes as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity as you celebrate the Lunar New Year with family and friends.

Jiaozi (Dumplings)

Summary: Jiaozi, or Chinese dumplings, are a beloved traditional dish often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These dumplings symbolize wealth and prosperity, as their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots. Filled with a savory mixture of pork and vegetables, Jiaozi are a delicious way to start the day and bring good luck for the year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour and water until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, napa cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Form the Dumplings: Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a thin circle. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold the dough over, and pinch the edges to seal.
4. Cook the Dumplings: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings in batches and cook for about 5 minutes, until they float to the top and the filling is cooked through.
5. Serve: Drain the dumplings and serve hot with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Conclusion: Jiaozi are not only delicious but also rich in cultural significance. Sharing a plate of these dumplings with loved ones is a cherished tradition that brings families together. Enjoy these savory bites and embrace the prosperity and wealth they symbolize as you celebrate Chinese New Year.

Eight Treasure Rice Pudding (Ba Bao Fan)

Summary: Eight Treasure Rice Pudding, or “Ba Bao Fan,” is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert that doubles as a delightful breakfast. This sweet and sticky rice pudding is studded with eight different types of dried fruits and nuts, symbolizing wealth, health, and happiness. Its rich flavor and vibrant presentation make it a festive addition to any New Year celebration.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice
• 1/4 cup red bean paste
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/4 cup dried dates, chopped
• 1/4 cup candied lotus seeds
• 1/4 cup candied winter melon
• 1/4 cup dried longan
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours, then drain.
2. Cook the Rice: Steam the rice for about 30 minutes until tender.
3. Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, mix the steamed rice with sugar and water until the sugar dissolves.
4. Assemble the Pudding: Grease a large bowl or mold. Arrange the dried fruits and nuts in the bottom and sides of the bowl in a decorative pattern. Spread half of the rice over the fruits and nuts, then spread a layer of red bean paste on top. Cover with the remaining rice and press down firmly.
5. Steam the Pudding: Steam the assembled pudding for another 30 minutes.
6. Serve: Let the pudding cool slightly before inverting it onto a serving plate. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Eight Treasure Rice Pudding is a festive and flavorful dish that brings a sense of celebration to your Chinese New Year breakfast. The combination of sticky rice and sweet, chewy fruits creates a delightful texture and taste. Share this traditional dish with your loved ones to ensure a year filled with prosperity, health, and happiness.

Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Summary: Turnip cake, or “Lo Bak Go,” is a savory dish traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Made from grated turnips (or radishes), rice flour, and various flavorful ingredients, this cake is steamed and then pan-fried to perfection. Its crispy exterior and soft, savory interior symbolize good fortune and prosperity, making it a staple for festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 large Chinese turnip (about 2 lbs), grated
• 2 cups rice flour
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
• 1/4 cup Chinese sausage, diced
• 1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Turnip: Grate the turnip and place it in a large pot. Add 1 cup of water and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, until the turnip is tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the rice flour and water to form a smooth batter.
3. Cook the Fillings: Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, shiitake mushrooms, scallions, and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked turnip, salt, sugar, and white pepper to the pan and mix well. Combine the turnip mixture with the rice flour batter.
5. Steam the Cake: Pour the mixture into a greased steaming dish and smooth the surface. Steam over high heat for about 1 hour, until the cake is firm.
6. Cool and Slice: Let the cake cool completely before slicing it into pieces.
7. Pan-Fry: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the slices until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
8. Serve: Serve hot with soy sauce or hoisin sauce.

Turnip cake is a beloved dish that brings both flavor and tradition to the Chinese New Year breakfast table. Its delightful combination of textures and savory taste makes it a crowd favorite. Enjoy this dish with family and friends as you celebrate and welcome the New Year with hopes of prosperity and good fortune.

Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan)

Summary: Sweet rice balls, or “Tangyuan,” are a traditional Chinese dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These glutinous rice balls are filled with sweet fillings such as black sesame or red bean paste and are served in a warm, sweet syrup. Tangyuan symbolize unity and togetherness, making them a perfect dish for family gatherings during the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup black sesame paste (or red bean paste)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 6 cups water
• 1/4 cup ginger, sliced
• 1/2 cup rock sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour with water to form a smooth dough. Knead until it is soft and pliable.
2. Form the Balls: Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball and place a small spoonful of black sesame paste in the center. Pinch the edges to seal and roll it back into a ball.
3. Cook the Balls: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the rice balls and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Syrup: In another pot, bring 6 cups of water, ginger slices, and rock sugar to a boil. Simmer until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup is fragrant.
5. Serve: Transfer the cooked rice balls to the sweet syrup. Serve warm.

Sweet rice balls are a delightful way to bring family together and celebrate Chinese New Year. Their chewy texture and sweet filling are a comforting treat, while their symbolism of unity makes them a meaningful addition to any celebration. Share these Tangyuan with loved ones to foster togetherness and harmony in the New Year.

Soy Milk and Youtiao

Summary: Soy milk and Youtiao (Chinese fried dough sticks) make for a traditional and hearty Chinese New Year breakfast. The warm, creamy soy milk pairs perfectly with the crispy, golden Youtiao, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This combination is not only delicious but also represents balance and harmony, which are essential themes of the New Year.

Ingredients:

For the Soy Milk:

• 1 cup dried soybeans
• 6 cups water
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional)

For the Youtiao:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

Soy Milk:

1. Soak the Soybeans: Soak the soybeans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the next day.
2. Blend the Soybeans: Blend the soaked soybeans with 6 cups of water until smooth.
3. Strain the Mixture: Strain the soybean mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer into a pot.
4. Boil the Soy Milk: Bring the strained liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Add sugar to taste if desired.
5. Serve: Serve hot or warm.

Youtiao:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add water, milk, and vegetable oil. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
2. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 2 hours.
3. Shape the Youtiao: Roll the dough out into a long rectangle. Cut into strips and pair them up. Press a chopstick lengthwise into the center of each pair to stick them together.
4. Fry the Youtiao: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the dough sticks in batches until golden brown and puffy.
5. Serve: Serve hot with soy milk.

Soy milk and Youtiao are a classic breakfast duo that brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to Chinese New Year celebrations. The creamy soy milk complements the crispy Youtiao, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy this traditional breakfast with family to start the New Year with warmth and harmony.

Congee with Century Egg and Pork

Summary: Congee is a comforting rice porridge enjoyed throughout the year, and it’s especially popular during Chinese New Year. The addition of century egg and pork elevates this dish, making it a hearty and flavorful breakfast option. Century eggs, with their distinctive flavor and texture, symbolize prosperity, while the warm congee provides a soothing start to the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 8 cups water
• 1/2 lb pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 2 century eggs, peeled and diced
• 1-inch piece ginger, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Congee: Rinse the rice under cold water. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the rice. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice breaks down and the mixture thickens, about 1-1.5 hours.
2. Prepare the Pork: Marinate the sliced pork with soy sauce and sesame oil for about 15 minutes.
3. Add Ingredients: Add the marinated pork, diced century eggs, ginger, and garlic to the congee. Continue to simmer until the pork is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Season: Season the congee with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Ladle the congee into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro.

Century egg and pork congee is a nourishing and delicious way to celebrate Chinese New Year. The creamy texture of the congee combined with the unique flavor of century eggs and tender pork creates a dish that’s both comforting and festive. Share this hearty breakfast with loved ones to start the day feeling warm and fulfilled.

Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Scallion pancakes, or “Cong You Bing,” are a crispy and flaky breakfast favorite perfect for Chinese New Year. These savory pancakes are infused with fragrant scallions and have a delightful crunch. They are often served with a dipping sauce, making them a versatile and tasty addition to the festive breakfast table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup scallions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and boiling water. Mix until it forms a shaggy dough. Add the cold water and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each part into a thin rectangle.
3. Add Scallions: Brush the surface of each rectangle with vegetable oil, sprinkle with salt, and evenly distribute the chopped scallions.
4. Form the Pancakes: Roll up each rectangle like a jelly roll, then coil each roll into a spiral. Flatten each spiral into a pancake.
5. Fry the Pancakes: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pancake until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve: Cut the pancakes into wedges and serve with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Scallion pancakes are a delightful treat that adds a savory crunch to your Chinese New Year breakfast. Their crispy exterior and flavorful layers make them a hit with everyone. Enjoy these pancakes hot off the skillet, and share them with family and friends to celebrate the start of the New Year with joy and deliciousness.

Red Bean Buns (Dou Sha Bao)

Red bean buns, or “Dou Sha Bao,” are soft, steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste. These buns are a popular treat during Chinese New Year, symbolizing good luck and happiness. The combination of the fluffy bun and the smooth, sweet filling makes them a perfect breakfast or snack during the festive season.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup red bean paste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm water and vegetable oil, and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
2. Divide the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
3. Fill the Buns: Flatten each dough ball and place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center. Pinch the edges to seal and shape into a smooth ball.
4. Steam the Buns: Place the buns on parchment paper squares and let them rest for 15 minutes. Steam over high heat for 15-20 minutes, until the buns are puffy and cooked through.
5. Serve: Serve warm, straight from the steamer.

Red bean buns are a delicious and auspicious way to celebrate Chinese New Year. Their soft, fluffy texture and sweet filling make them a favorite among both children and adults. Enjoy these buns with your loved ones, and welcome the New Year with a sweet start and good fortune.

Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame balls, or “Jian Dui,” are a popular Chinese New Year treat known for their delightful crunch and chewy interior. These deep-fried rice flour balls are coated in sesame seeds and often filled with sweet red bean paste. They symbolize happiness and prosperity, making them a festive and delicious way to start the New Year.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup red bean paste
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
2. Form the Balls: Divide the dough into small balls. Flatten each ball and place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center. Pinch the edges to seal and roll back into a ball.
3. Coat with Sesame Seeds: Lightly dampen the surface of each ball with water and roll in sesame seeds to coat evenly.
4. Fry the Balls: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sesame balls in batches until they are golden brown and float to the surface, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Sesame balls are a festive delight that adds a touch of sweetness to your Chinese New Year breakfast. Their crispy exterior and chewy, sweet interior are irresistible, making them a favorite among both young and old. Enjoy these golden treats with family and friends as you celebrate the New Year with joy and prosperity.

Steamed Sponge Cake (Ma Lai Gao)

Summary: Steamed sponge cake, or “Ma Lai Gao,” is a traditional Cantonese treat that is soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet. This cake is steamed rather than baked, giving it a unique texture that pairs perfectly with tea. Enjoyed during Chinese New Year, it symbolizes growth and rising fortunes, making it a meaningful addition to your festive breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the evaporated milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.
2. Rest the Batter: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for at least 1 hour.
3. Steam the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased steaming dish. Steam over high heat for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Steamed sponge cake is a light and airy treat that brings a touch of elegance to your Chinese New Year breakfast. Its delicate sweetness and fluffy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to tea. Share this delightful cake with your loved ones as you celebrate growth and prosperity in the New Year.

Longevity Noodles (Chang Shou Mian)

Longevity noodles, or “Chang Shou Mian,” are a traditional Chinese New Year dish symbolizing long life and good health. These long, uncut noodles are typically stir-fried or served in a broth and are a staple in New Year celebrations. Their delicious flavor and symbolic meaning make them a perfect addition to your festive breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fresh Chinese egg noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, julienned
• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup baby bok choy, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and baby bok choy. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender.
3. Combine and Season: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
4. Serve: Transfer the noodles to a serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve immediately.

Longevity noodles are a delicious and symbolic way to start your Chinese New Year celebrations. Their savory flavor and hearty ingredients make them a satisfying meal, while their symbolic meaning adds depth to the festivities. Enjoy these noodles with family and friends as you wish for a long and healthy life in the New Year.

Steamed Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Steamed dumplings, or “Jiaozi,” are a beloved food during Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots. Filled with minced meat and vegetables, these dumplings are a savory treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast or as part of a celebratory meal. Their rich flavors and symbolic meaning make them a must-have for New Year festivities.

Ingredients:

• 1 package dumpling wrappers (or homemade dough)
• 1/2 lb ground pork or beef
• 1/2 cup cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped scallions
• 1 tbsp water (for sealing the dumplings)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped cabbage, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and chopped scallions. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Form the Dumplings: Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water and fold the wrapper over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal.
3. Steam the Dumplings: Prepare a steamer and line the steamer basket with parchment paper or cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for about 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through.
4. Serve: Serve the dumplings with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili oil for extra flavor.

Steamed dumplings are not just delicious, but they also carry a powerful cultural symbol of wealth and prosperity for the new year. Their juicy, flavorful filling encased in a tender wrapper makes them a perfect start to the day. Whether enjoyed with family at breakfast or shared among friends, these dumplings bring a sense of togetherness and good fortune to your Chinese New Year celebrations.

Lotus Seed and Red Bean Soup

Lotus seed and red bean soup is a traditional Chinese dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for its health benefits and symbolism of fertility and good fortune. The smooth, sweet soup is warm and comforting, making it a great way to start the day, particularly when shared with family for a sweet and nourishing start to the festivities.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried lotus seeds, rinsed
• 1/2 cup dried red beans (adzuki beans), soaked overnight
• 6 cups water
• 1/4 cup rock sugar (or to taste)
• 2-3 slices of ginger (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beans and Seeds: In a large pot, combine the soaked red beans and lotus seeds with water. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 1 hour, or until the beans and lotus seeds are soft.
2. Add Sugar: Once the beans and lotus seeds are soft, add the rock sugar to the pot and stir until it dissolves. You can also add ginger slices for a slight hint of spice, depending on your preference.
3. Simmer: Let the soup simmer for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Lotus seed and red bean soup is not just delicious; it’s also deeply symbolic, representing fertility, health, and the continuation of life. The rich, sweet flavor of this soup, combined with the soft lotus seeds and red beans, creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for a nourishing breakfast during Chinese New Year. It’s an ideal way to warm up on a chilly morning and start the year with good health and good fortune.

Steamed Chicken with Chinese Herbs (Herbal Chicken)

Steamed chicken with Chinese herbs is a traditional dish known for its health benefits and symbolism of vitality and longevity. The chicken is infused with the aroma of Chinese herbs like ginseng, jujube, and goji berries, making it a flavorful and nutritious breakfast dish for Chinese New Year. It’s both light and rejuvenating, offering the perfect balance to start the year on a healthy note.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cleaned and patted dry
• 4-6 dried jujube dates
• 10-12 dried goji berries
• 1 small piece of ginseng (optional, for extra herbal flavor)
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice wine
• Salt to taste
• 4-5 cups water (for steaming)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the cleaned chicken in a large heatproof dish. Rub the chicken with a bit of salt, soy sauce, and rice wine.
2. Add Herbs: Stuff the chicken with the dried jujube dates, goji berries, and ginger slices. If using ginseng, place it under the skin or inside the chicken.
3. Steam the Chicken: Set the dish in a steamer and steam the chicken over boiling water for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the steamer and serve hot. The broth can be served alongside the chicken as a soup or poured over the chicken for extra flavor.

Steamed chicken with Chinese herbs is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing and symbolic dish for Chinese New Year, offering health benefits and a sense of well-being for the year ahead. The delicate herbal flavors infuse the chicken, making it tender and aromatic, while the medicinal properties of the herbs promote longevity and vitality. This dish is a wonderful way to kickstart your Chinese New Year with a focus on health and prosperity.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!