30+ Classic Chinese New Year Finger Food Recipes for Your Festive Gatherings

Chinese New Year is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and feasting on delicious foods that symbolize prosperity, good luck, and happiness.

As we welcome the Lunar New Year, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a spread of delightful finger foods that are easy to share, delicious to eat, and steeped in cultural significance.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a festive meal at home, 30+ Chinese New Year finger food recipes are the perfect way to bring joy to your table.

From savory dumplings and crispy spring rolls to sweet treats like sesame balls, these bite-sized delicacies are sure to please every palate.

In this blog, we’ll explore a range of easy-to-make and flavorful recipes that are perfect for your Chinese New Year celebration.

30+ Classic Chinese New Year Finger Food Recipes for Your Festive Gatherings

With 30+ Chinese New Year finger food recipes at your fingertips, you’ll have a wealth of options to create a memorable and festive spread that is both traditional and modern.

These recipes, ranging from savory to sweet, are not just about satisfying hunger—they are rich in symbolism, representing everything from wealth and health to happiness and longevity.

Whether you are preparing for a small family meal or a larger celebration, these finger foods will add a burst of flavor, fun, and meaning to your gathering.

So, roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and let the delicious flavors of Chinese New Year elevate your celebrations!

Crispy Spring Rolls

Crispy spring rolls are a traditional Chinese New Year treat, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their golden, cylindrical shape. These crunchy, bite-sized appetizers are filled with savory vegetables and protein, offering a delightful contrast of textures. They’re a crowd favorite at any Chinese New Year gathering, easy to make, and perfect for dipping into a sweet and savory sauce.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 package of spring roll wrappers
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped shiitake mushrooms (or any preferred mushrooms)
  • 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sealing)
  • Oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and bamboo shoots, and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the shredded cabbage and carrots, stirring frequently, for about 5-6 minutes until they soften. Season with soy sauce.
  3. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove from heat and let them cool.
  4. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Add a tablespoon of the cooled filling near one edge, then roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Seal the edge with a cornstarch-water mixture.
  5. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the spring rolls in batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
  6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Crispy spring rolls are a festive and delicious finger food that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year. Their crispy texture and savory filling make them the perfect snack to share with family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a larger spread, these rolls will definitely bring a touch of tradition and joy to your celebration. Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or soy sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings are a must-have for Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and good fortune due to their resemblance to gold ingots. These bite-sized pockets of joy are filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned pork, cabbage, and green onions. They are often steamed or pan-fried for a satisfying crunch or soft, delicate bite.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 package of dumpling wrappers (or homemade dough)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Oil for pan-frying (if making potstickers)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and cornstarch. Mix well.
  2. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges with a bit of water and fold the wrapper over to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal tightly.
  3. For steaming: Place the dumplings in a steaming basket lined with parchment paper. Steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the filling is cooked through.
  4. For pan-frying (potstickers): Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Arrange the dumplings in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes until the bottoms are golden. Add a few tablespoons of water to the pan, cover, and steam for another 5-6 minutes until the filling is cooked and the wrapper is tender.
  5. Serve hot with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a little chili oil.

Chinese dumplings are a versatile and beloved dish that represents abundance and prosperity. Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are a savory delight that adds both flavor and tradition to your Chinese New Year spread. With their juicy filling and crispy or soft exterior, they are a perfect choice for finger food and can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces. A delicious bite of good luck with every dumpling!

Sticky Rice Dumplings (Zongzi)

Zongzi are traditional sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed to perfection. They are typically made with glutinous rice and a variety of savory fillings like pork, salted egg, or mung beans. Zongzi are a festive treat enjoyed during Chinese New Year and other holidays, symbolizing unity and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups glutinous rice, soaked in water for 4 hours
  • 4-6 bamboo leaves, soaked in hot water for 30 minutes
  • 1/2 lb pork belly or chicken, cut into small chunks
  • 4-6 salted egg yolks (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried shrimp (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • Salt to taste
  • Twine for tying
• Instructions:
  1. Marinate the pork or chicken with soy sauce, rice wine, five-spice powder, and a pinch of salt for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the bamboo leaves by cleaning them thoroughly. Lay two leaves side by side, slightly overlapping, and fold them into a cone shape.
  3. Begin filling the cone with a layer of soaked glutinous rice, followed by a chunk of marinated pork, a salted egg yolk (if using), mushrooms, and dried shrimp. Top with more glutinous rice to cover the filling.
  4. Fold the leaves over the rice and tie them securely with twine to form a compact bundle.
  5. Steam the zongzi for about 2 hours or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
  6. Once done, carefully unwrap the bamboo leaves and serve warm.

Zongzi are a heartwarming and satisfying Chinese New Year treat that bring a sense of tradition and celebration to the table. The combination of sticky rice with savory fillings wrapped in fragrant bamboo leaves makes for a unique finger food experience. Perfect for a festive gathering, zongzi are not only delicious but are rich in symbolism, representing family unity and good fortune in the year to come. Enjoy this special treat with friends and family, and let the celebrations begin!

Sweet Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sweet sesame balls, or Jian Dui, are a popular Chinese dessert often served during Chinese New Year. These deep-fried treats have a crispy exterior and a chewy, sweet filling made of red bean paste, all covered in crunchy sesame seeds. The round shape symbolizes completeness and unity, making them a perfect treat to celebrate the New Year with family and friends.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste
  • 1/2 cup sesame seeds (white or black)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and baking powder. Gradually add water while stirring to form a smooth dough.
  2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut. Flatten each ball slightly and place about a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center.
  3. Gently seal the dough around the filling, shaping it back into a ball.
  4. Roll the balls in sesame seeds until they are fully coated.
  5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
  6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Sweet sesame balls are the perfect balance of texture and flavor—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, with a hint of sweetness from the red bean paste. These delightful treats are not only delicious but also carry symbolism of unity, wealth, and happiness. Serving them during Chinese New Year brings good fortune and adds a touch of sweetness to your festivities. Enjoy them warm, and they’ll surely be a hit with your guests!

Chinese BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)

Char Siu Bao are fluffy, steamed buns filled with savory Chinese BBQ pork. These pillowy buns are a favorite dim sum dish and a perfect finger food for Chinese New Year celebrations. The slightly sweet and savory filling inside the soft, pillowy bun creates a delightful contrast that will please any palate.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 package of bao dough (or use store-bought for convenience)
  • 1/2 lb Chinese BBQ pork (Char Siu), diced
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
• Instructions:
  1. In a pan, combine the BBQ pork, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and five-spice powder. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until the pork is heated through.
  2. Add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Stir until the sauce becomes glossy and thick. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
  3. Roll out the bao dough into small circles about 4 inches in diameter.
  4. Place a spoonful of the cooled Char Siu filling in the center of each dough circle. Pinch the edges together to seal, forming a bun.
  5. Arrange the buns on a steaming rack lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes until the buns are fluffy and fully cooked.
  6. Serve the buns warm, straight from the steamer.

Chinese BBQ pork buns (Char Siu Bao) are a deliciously comforting finger food for Chinese New Year. With their fluffy exterior and savory-sweet filling, they offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture. These buns are symbolic of prosperity, making them a wonderful addition to any festive celebration. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or as part of a larger meal, they’re sure to bring joy and deliciousness to your guests.

Steamed Bao with Egg and Pickled Vegetables

These steamed bao buns filled with a combination of egg and pickled vegetables are a delicious, savory, and slightly tangy snack that brings a modern twist to traditional Chinese New Year fare. They are perfect finger food, with the soft, fluffy bao exterior complementing the flavorful, savory filling. These bao are ideal for a light yet satisfying appetizer or snack for the holiday season.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 package of bao dough (or make your own)
  • 2 boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (or any pickled vegetables of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the bao dough according to the package instructions or make your own. Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into circles about 3-4 inches in diameter.
  2. Place a slice of boiled egg and a small amount of pickled vegetables in the center of each dough circle.
  3. Drizzle a little soy sauce and sesame oil over the egg and vegetables, then fold the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, creating a small bun.
  4. Arrange the buns on a steaming rack lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for about 10-12 minutes, until the buns are fluffy and the filling is hot.
  5. Once steamed, remove the buns and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Steamed bao with egg and pickled vegetables offer a delightful combination of flavors that make them a refreshing choice for Chinese New Year. The soft, fluffy bao complements the richness of the egg and the tangy, crunchy pickled vegetables for a truly satisfying snack. These bao are a beautiful addition to any festive table, adding both flavor and cultural tradition to your celebration. They’re perfect for sharing with loved ones during this special time of year!

Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)

Spring rolls are a quintessential Chinese appetizer that’s light, crunchy, and filled with delicious vegetables or meats. These bite-sized rolls symbolize wealth and prosperity because of their gold-like appearance after being fried. Whether served as a savory starter or finger food at a Chinese New Year gathering, they are always a crowd-pleaser.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cooked shrimp or pork (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Spring roll wrappers (store-bought)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and optional shrimp or pork. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Toss everything together to combine evenly.
  2. Take one spring roll wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling near the edge.
  3. Roll the wrapper tightly around the filling, folding in the sides to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
  4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the spring rolls into the hot oil, frying them for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Remove the spring rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  6. Serve with a dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce.

Crispy, savory, and satisfying, spring rolls are a beloved Chinese appetizer that perfectly embodies the festive spirit of Chinese New Year. The crispy exterior contrasts wonderfully with the flavorful vegetable and meat filling inside. These rolls are not only a delicious treat but also carry symbolic meaning, representing wealth and good fortune. Whether you’re preparing them for a large party or a small gathering, they’re sure to be devoured quickly and appreciated by everyone!

Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Chinese scallion pancakes, or Cong You Bing, are a savory, flaky flatbread filled with fresh scallions and crispy layers. The irresistible crunch and rich, savory flavor make them a perfect finger food for any celebration, especially during Chinese New Year. Easy to prepare and delicious, these pancakes symbolize prosperity and abundance.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 4-5 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Slowly add the boiling water while stirring to form a dough. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  2. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
  3. After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface.
  4. Brush the dough with sesame oil, then sprinkle with chopped scallions and a pinch of sugar (optional).
  5. Roll the dough into a log and then coil it into a round shape. Roll the coiled dough into a flat pancake again, about 1/4-inch thick.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  7. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Slice into wedges and serve hot.

Chinese scallion pancakes are the epitome of comfort food, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with the irresistible flavor of fresh scallions throughout. This savory dish is not only easy to make but is also a delightful addition to any Chinese New Year meal. The flaky layers and rich taste are sure to bring joy to your celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the coming year. Serve them fresh and warm, and they’ll be the star of the snack table.

Mini Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)

Mini dumplings, or Xiao Long Bao, are delicate steamed buns filled with savory pork and a rich, flavorful broth. The combination of juicy filling and tender dough makes them an irresistible treat at any Chinese New Year celebration. These mini dumplings symbolize wealth and good fortune and are a beloved addition to the festive meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or pork broth)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Dumpling wrappers (store-bought or homemade)
  • Vegetable oil (for greasing)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• Instructions:
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Mix well to form a smooth filling. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.
  2. Prepare the dumpling wrappers by laying them flat. Spoon a small amount of the pork mixture into the center of each wrapper.
  3. Fold the edges of the wrapper to encase the filling, pinching the top to seal. Make sure to leave a small pleat at the top to create a traditional “pouch” shape.
  4. Place the dumplings in a lightly oiled steamer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other.
  5. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for about 6-8 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and the dumplings are tender.
  6. Serve with soy sauce and a little vinegar for dipping.

Mini dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) are a must-have for any Chinese New Year celebration. Their rich, juicy filling paired with delicate, tender dough makes them a favorite among guests of all ages. The broth inside the dumplings is the signature feature, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. These dumplings are not only delicious but are also symbolic of prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. Make sure to serve them warm to enjoy their full deliciousness!

Chinese Beef Skewers (Chuanr)

Chinese beef skewers, known as Chuanr, are a popular street food often enjoyed during Chinese New Year celebrations. These skewers are marinated in a flavorful mix of spices and herbs, then grilled to perfection. The bold and savory flavors make them a delicious finger food that is perfect for sharing at festive gatherings. Chuanr symbolize good luck and a prosperous year ahead due to their connection with communal eating and warmth.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, five-spice powder, cumin, chili flakes, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and rice wine. Stir to mix well.
  2. Add the beef cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.
  3. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef cubes onto the skewers.
  4. Grill the beef skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as a soy-based sauce or chili sauce.

Chinese beef skewers are a fantastic choice for finger food during Chinese New Year celebrations. The tender beef, combined with the bold, flavorful marinade, creates an irresistible bite. The grill marks and smoky flavor add depth to the dish, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. With their roots in Chinese street food culture, these skewers embody the spirit of community and good fortune. Serve them with a side of fresh vegetables or dipping sauce to complete the meal, and they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Lotus Root Chips (Lian Ou Tiao)

Lotus root chips are a unique and healthy Chinese snack that’s perfect for Chinese New Year gatherings. The lotus root’s natural crunchiness and its light, slightly sweet flavor make it a perfect choice for crispy, finger-friendly snacks. These chips symbolize purity and longevity in Chinese culture, making them an ideal treat to serve during the festive season.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lotus root, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons rice flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. Rinse the lotus root slices thoroughly to remove any excess starch.
  2. In a bowl, combine rice flour, salt, and five-spice powder. Toss the lotus root slices in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, fry the lotus root slices for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy.
  4. Remove the chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  5. Let the chips cool slightly before serving.

Lotus root chips are a deliciously crunchy snack that offers a unique flavor compared to traditional chips. Their light, crisp texture makes them a perfect finger food, and the slight sweetness of the lotus root adds an interesting layer of flavor. Symbolizing purity and longevity, these chips are a meaningful addition to your Chinese New Year spread. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or as a snack during a festive meal, they’re sure to impress guests with their crunch and healthy appeal.

Chinese Chicken Meatballs (Ji Rou Wan)

Chinese chicken meatballs, or Ji Rou Wan, are tender, juicy, and packed with flavors from ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. They are a delicious finger food for Chinese New Year, symbolizing happiness and unity due to their round shape. These savory meatballs can be served as an appetizer or part of a main course, making them a versatile and tasty dish for any celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, green onions, egg, and cornstarch. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
  2. Season with salt and pepper, then shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Serve the meatballs with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or chili sauce.

Chinese chicken meatballs are a flavorful, juicy, and bite-sized snack perfect for any Chinese New Year gathering. The savory combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger creates a deliciously aromatic flavor profile, while the meatballs’ round shape symbolizes completeness and happiness. These meatballs are sure to be a hit with both adults and children, making them a must-have on your holiday menu. Whether served with a tangy dipping sauce or simply enjoyed as-is, they’ll make your celebration even more festive.

Chinese Shrimp Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)

Chinese shrimp spring rolls are a light and refreshing finger food perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations. Filled with succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, these rolls are typically served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce. Their fresh and vibrant flavors make them an excellent choice for a healthier snack option during the festive season. Shrimp symbolizes abundance and good fortune, making these spring rolls a symbol of prosperity for the New Year.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup julienned carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 10 rice paper wrappers
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce (for dipping)
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix the chopped shrimp, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, cilantro, and green onions. Drizzle with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, then toss to combine.
  2. Fill a shallow dish with warm water and soak each rice paper wrapper for about 10-15 seconds until soft.
  3. Lay the softened rice paper on a flat surface and place a few tablespoons of the shrimp mixture in the center.
  4. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly, ensuring the ends are sealed.
  5. Repeat until all rolls are made.
  6. Serve the spring rolls with hoisin sauce or a peanut dipping sauce.

Chinese shrimp spring rolls are a delightful combination of fresh ingredients wrapped in a delicate rice paper shell. They are a versatile and light appetizer that perfectly complements any Chinese New Year celebration. The fresh shrimp and crisp vegetables are a healthy option that will be appreciated by guests looking for lighter fare, while the dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. These spring rolls are not only tasty but also symbolically linked to prosperity, making them a meaningful and delicious part of your festivities.

Pork and Chive Dumplings (Jiao Zi)

Pork and chive dumplings, or Jiao Zi, are a traditional Chinese dish often enjoyed during the Lunar New Year as they symbolize wealth and prosperity. The dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork, chives, and seasonings, then boiled or pan-fried to a golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are ideal for finger food and are an essential part of any Chinese New Year banquet. Sharing a plate of dumplings is a sign of unity and good fortune for the coming year.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup chives, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • Dumpling wrappers
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for pan-frying (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped chives, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, sugar, rice wine, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Take a dumpling wrapper and spoon a small amount of the filling into the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water and fold it in half, pinching the edges together to seal.
  3. Repeat until all the filling is used.
  4. To cook, you can either steam or pan-fry the dumplings. To pan-fry, heat a little vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the dumplings until the bottoms are golden brown, then add a little water and cover to steam until fully cooked.
  5. Serve with soy sauce or a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili oil.

Pork and chive dumplings are a festive and flavorful finger food that brings good luck to your Chinese New Year celebrations. These dumplings are not only delicious, but they also carry a deep cultural significance, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their shape, which resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots. Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a dipping sauce to enhance their savory flavor, and they’ll quickly become a favorite among your guests.

Chinese BBQ Pork Buns (Cha Siu Bao)

Chinese BBQ pork buns, or Cha Siu Bao, are a classic dim sum dish enjoyed by many during Chinese New Year. These fluffy steamed buns are filled with sweet and savory BBQ pork, creating a comforting and satisfying snack. The round shape of the buns symbolizes unity and completeness, making them a perfect addition to your festive spread. Their combination of tender dough and flavorful filling is sure to delight guests at any celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb BBQ pork (Cha Siu), chopped into small pieces
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional)
  • 1 package of steamed bun dough (or make your own if preferred)
• Instructions:
  1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped BBQ pork, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, and water. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. If the sauce needs thickening, mix the cornstarch with a little water and add it to the mixture. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened, then remove from heat and let it cool.
  3. Roll out the steamed bun dough into small circles. Place a spoonful of the BBQ pork mixture in the center of each circle.
  4. Pinch the edges of the dough together to seal the buns, then place them on a piece of parchment paper.
  5. Steam the buns in a steamer over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and fluffy.
  6. Serve warm with a side of soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.

Chinese BBQ pork buns are a comforting and flavorful addition to any Chinese New Year gathering. The soft, fluffy dough combined with the rich, savory BBQ pork filling creates a mouthwatering bite that’s perfect for finger food. These buns not only taste amazing but also carry symbolic meaning, as their round shape represents unity and completeness. Whether enjoyed as part of a larger dim sum spread or as a standalone snack, Cha Siu Bao will be a beloved treat during your festivities.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!