50+ Traditional Chinese New Year Fish Recipes You Need to Try

Chinese New Year is one of the most important festivals in the Chinese culture, and it is celebrated with grand meals, joyful gatherings, and plenty of traditional dishes.

One of the most symbolic foods served during this festive time is fish. In Chinese culture, fish is believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and abundance for the year ahead.

The word for fish, “鱼” (yú), sounds like “surplus,” making it a key ingredient in any New Year’s meal. Whether you’re looking to make a simple steamed fish dish or a flavorful stir-fry, these 50+ Chinese New Year fish recipes offer a wide variety of delicious options to help you celebrate this special occasion with family and friends.

From traditional to modern twists, you’ll find everything you need to make your Chinese New Year meal unforgettable.

50+ Traditional Chinese New Year Fish Recipes You Need to Try

With these 50+ Chinese New Year fish recipes, you can bring the festive spirit and symbolism of the holiday to your dining table.

Each dish not only provides a rich, flavorful experience but also holds a deeper meaning of wealth, prosperity, and happiness.

Whether you prefer a light steamed fish, a savory black bean fish, or something more adventurous, there’s a recipe to suit every palate and style.

Let these recipes help you celebrate the season with joy and good fortune, and may the new year bring an abundance of blessings to you and your loved ones.

Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed whole fish is a classic Chinese dish, symbolizing abundance and prosperity for the New Year. This dish features a fresh fish, typically a whole snapper or tilapia, steamed with ginger, garlic, and scallions, providing delicate flavors that represent harmony and unity in Chinese culture. The dish is traditionally served during Chinese New Year to usher in good fortune and wealth.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 whole fish (around 2 pounds, such as snapper or tilapia)
  • 4-5 slices of ginger
  • 3-4 scallions (cut into 3-inch pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Clean and scale the fish, removing the guts and fins. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Place the fish on a steaming plate and stuff the cavity with half of the ginger slices and a few pieces of scallions.
  3. Bring water to a boil in a steamer or large pot. Place the fish on a rack or plate above the water, ensuring it does not touch the water.
  4. Steam the fish for 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of the fish, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
  5. In a separate small saucepan, heat the soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and remaining ginger slices over medium heat until warmed and the sugar dissolves.
  6. Carefully remove the fish from the steamer and discard the ginger from the cavity. Pour the warm sauce over the fish.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and the remaining scallions. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

This steamed whole fish dish is a must-have for Chinese New Year celebrations, representing wishes for abundance and a smooth year ahead. The fragrant ginger, scallions, and soy sauce complement the tender fish, while the sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. Serving it as the centerpiece of your meal will surely bring joy and prosperity to the occasion, making it a memorable and meaningful dish.

Crispy Fried Fish with Sweet and Sour Sauce

Crispy fried fish is a popular dish during Chinese New Year, symbolizing good fortune and a bright future. This recipe features crispy fish fillets fried to perfection and served with a tangy, sweet, and sour sauce. It’s a lively, colorful dish that brings an exciting burst of flavors to the table, making it a festive favorite.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod or tilapia)
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chopped bell peppers (red or green)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pineapple chunks
  • 1 tablespoon chopped onions
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the fish fillets by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks.
  2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and salt. Dip the fish pieces into the beaten egg, then coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the fish pieces in batches, cooking each piece for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  4. In a separate pan, combine the ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add the bell peppers, pineapple, and onions to the sauce, allowing them to cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  6. Once the sauce is thickened and bubbly, pour it over the crispy fish pieces and toss gently to coat.
  7. Serve the fish immediately, garnished with additional pineapple and bell peppers if desired.

This crispy fried fish with sweet and sour sauce delivers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, from the crispiness of the fish to the tangy sauce. It’s a visually stunning dish that adds a burst of color and excitement to your Chinese New Year feast. The dish represents balance and harmony, which are key themes during the celebration, and is sure to please guests with its vibrant taste.

Fish in Hot and Sour Broth (Yu Xiang)

Hot and sour fish, known as Yu Xiang, is a flavorful and comforting dish commonly served during the Chinese New Year to bring good health and fortune. The rich, tangy broth made from a combination of vinegar, soy sauce, and chilies infuses the fish with layers of flavor. The heat from the broth represents prosperity and vitality, while the sourness symbolizes good fortune.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 fillets of fish (such as bass or tilapia)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
  • 2 tablespoons chili paste or chili oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
  • 1/4 cup carrot, julienned
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 3 cups fish stock (or chicken stock)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
  • Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces and season with a pinch of salt.
  2. In a pot, heat the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cooking wine over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, chili paste, and sugar, stirring to combine.
  3. Add the fish stock to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Add the mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and carrots to the pot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
  5. Slowly add the fish pieces into the broth and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and tender.
  6. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the broth.
  7. Ladle the hot and sour fish soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro and green onions. Serve with steamed rice.

The hot and sour fish broth is a soothing, flavorful dish perfect for Chinese New Year. The deep, savory flavors from the soy sauce and the heat from the chili paste are beautifully balanced by the vinegar’s tang, making it a dish that embodies the Chinese concept of balance and harmony. It’s an excellent dish to bring warmth, health, and prosperity to your home in the New Year, with the fish symbolizing abundance and vitality for the year ahead.

Braised Fish with Mushrooms and Tofu

Braised fish with mushrooms and tofu is a comforting, hearty dish often served during Chinese New Year celebrations to represent unity and good fortune. The fish is slowly simmered in a savory broth, absorbing the rich flavors of shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and a touch of soy sauce. This dish is symbolic of family and togetherness, making it a perfect addition to your festive table.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of firm white fish (such as cod or grouper)
  • 1 block of firm tofu, cut into cubes
  • 6-8 dried shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 2 cups fish or chicken stock
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
  • Green onions and cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a large, deep pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the tofu cubes to the pan, gently stir-frying for another 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, sugar, and fish stock. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Gently add the fish fillets to the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Cover and braise for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is tender and cooked through.
  5. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the broth to thicken the sauce.
  6. Serve the fish and tofu in a deep dish, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.

Braised fish with mushrooms and tofu is a heartwarming dish that combines delicate flavors and soft textures, perfect for celebrating Chinese New Year. The rich broth, infused with soy sauce and oyster sauce, enhances the fish and tofu, making it a truly comforting meal. This dish symbolizes family unity and good fortune, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any holiday feast.

Sweet Soy Glazed Fish with Pineapple

Sweet soy glazed fish with pineapple is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of soy sauce. This dish is a symbol of prosperity and growth, making it a perfect choice for Chinese New Year. The sticky glaze gives the fish a luscious finish, while the pineapple adds a refreshing and tropical touch.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as tilapia or sea bass)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small piece of ginger, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create the glaze. Set aside.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the fish from the pan and set it aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to caramelize.
  5. Pour the prepared glaze over the pineapple and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Return the fish fillets to the pan, spooning the glaze and pineapple over the fish. Cook for another 2 minutes to ensure the fish is coated in the sauce.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

This sweet soy glazed fish with pineapple is an ideal choice for adding a touch of tropical flair to your Chinese New Year table. The combination of the savory soy sauce and the sweetness of the pineapple creates a balanced, rich flavor that is both comforting and festive. As a symbol of prosperity, it’s a dish that will not only delight your guests’ taste buds but also bring good fortune to the New Year celebration.

Fish with Black Bean Sauce

Fish with black bean sauce is a savory, umami-packed dish that’s often enjoyed during Chinese New Year to celebrate abundance and strength. The fermented black beans add a deep, earthy flavor that complements the tender fish, creating a robust and satisfying dish. Paired with garlic, ginger, and chili, this dish is a deliciously bold choice for any festive occasion.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of firm white fish (such as grouper or halibut)
  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (also called “douchi”)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup water or fish stock
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Rinse the fermented black beans in cold water to remove any excess salt, then mash them slightly with a spoon.
  2. Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and sliced chilies, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the mashed black beans to the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar, stirring to combine. Add the water or fish stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Gently place the fish fillets into the pan, spooning the sauce over the fish. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
  6. Remove the fish from the pan and plate it, spooning the black bean sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

Fish with black bean sauce is a bold and flavorful dish that carries deep umami tones and is a great choice for those who enjoy more savory, complex flavors. This dish represents strength and abundance, making it a fitting addition to your Chinese New Year celebration. The combination of the fermented black beans, soy sauce, and fish results in a rich, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the tender fish, making it an unforgettable meal.

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed fish with ginger and scallions is a traditional Chinese New Year dish that symbolizes good fortune and long life. The delicate, flaky fish is steamed to perfection, and the combination of ginger and scallions adds a fragrant, fresh layer of flavor. The simplicity of the dish allows the natural sweetness of the fish to shine through, making it a perfect offering for the New Year celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 whole fish (such as tilapia, snapper, or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
  • 2-3 sprigs of fresh scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal cuts on each side of the fish.
  2. Lay the fish on a heatproof plate that fits inside your steamer.
  3. Stuff the fish cavity with ginger slices and some of the scallions. Arrange the remaining scallions and ginger on top of the fish.
  4. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the steamer basket over the pot. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and sugar. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is warm.
  6. Carefully remove the fish from the steamer and drizzle the warm sauce over the fish.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Steamed fish with ginger and scallions is a light yet flavorful dish that perfectly represents the spirit of Chinese New Year—hope for prosperity and longevity. The gentle steaming process preserves the natural texture of the fish while infusing it with the aromatic flavors of ginger and scallions. This dish is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a symbolic and auspicious choice for a meaningful celebration.

Sweet and Sour Fish

Sweet and sour fish is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that balances the rich umami flavor of the fish with tangy and sweet elements, making it a popular choice during Chinese New Year celebrations. The bright, bold flavors represent happiness and harmony, and the dish’s appealing colors and textures make it a festive centerpiece on the holiday table.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod or halibut)
  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch mixture to create the sweet and sour sauce. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove the fish from the pan and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pineapple chunks (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  4. Pour the sweet and sour sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and bring it to a simmer. Stir until the sauce thickens.
  5. Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce and vegetables over the top.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with steamed rice.

Sweet and sour fish is an exciting dish that brings a dynamic mix of flavors to your Chinese New Year feast. The crispy fish fillets, combined with the sweet and tangy sauce, create a perfect balance of textures and tastes. It represents harmony and joy, making it an excellent choice to start off the year with positive energy and delicious food.

Fish with Black Fungus and Carrots

Fish with black fungus and carrots is a nutritious and flavorful dish commonly prepared for Chinese New Year to signify health and vitality. The black fungus adds a subtle earthiness and chewy texture, while the carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness. This dish is easy to prepare yet offers a complex balance of flavors that make it a perfect choice for a holiday meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, haddock, or sole)
  • 1/2 cup dried black fungus (wood ear mushrooms), rehydrated and sliced
  • 2 medium carrots, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken or fish stock
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the julienned carrots and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
  2. Add the black fungus to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Push the vegetables and mushrooms to the side of the pan, then add the fish fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, sugar, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the fish and vegetables.
  5. Add the stock to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook for another 5-6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Fish with black fungus and carrots is a wholesome and satisfying dish that represents health, longevity, and good fortune in Chinese culture. The natural sweetness of the carrots, combined with the chewy texture of the black fungus, creates a beautiful contrast to the tender fish fillets. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nourishing and flavorful meal during the Chinese New Year, promoting well-being and vitality for the year ahead.

Cantonese-Style Baked Fish with Soy Sauce

Cantonese-style baked fish with soy sauce is a savory and aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with the delicate texture of fish. This recipe is often enjoyed during Chinese New Year as it symbolizes prosperity, with the fish representing abundance. The soy sauce, garlic, and herbs create a flavorful glaze that complements the fish without overpowering its natural taste.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 whole fish (such as snapper or grouper), cleaned and gutted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 sprigs fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the whole fish on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
  4. Pour the sauce over the fish, making sure to coat both sides. Let the fish marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Drizzle cooking oil over the fish before placing it in the preheated oven.
  6. Bake the fish for 20-25 minutes or until the flesh is fully cooked and easily flakes apart.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions before serving.

Cantonese-style baked fish with soy sauce is a flavorful yet simple dish that is perfect for any Chinese New Year meal. The rich, savory sauce enhances the tender fish, while the aromatic garlic and fresh herbs add depth to each bite. This dish is not only delicious but also an auspicious choice, symbolizing wealth and good fortune for the upcoming year.

Crispy Fish with Sweet Chili Sauce

Crispy fish with sweet chili sauce is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the crunch of perfectly fried fish with the tangy heat of sweet chili sauce. It’s a favorite during Chinese New Year celebrations for its vibrant, festive appearance and its perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors. The crispy fish adds texture, while the sauce delivers a mouthwatering kick that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of firm white fish (such as tilapia or catfish)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
  For the Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten egg and cold water, stirring until the batter is smooth and thick.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
  3. Dip the fish fillets into the batter, coating them evenly, and carefully fry them in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Heat over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens and becomes fragrant.
  5. Drizzle the sauce over the crispy fish fillets.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Crispy fish with sweet chili sauce is a dynamic and exciting dish that brings a satisfying crunch paired with a deliciously sweet and spicy flavor profile. Perfect for the festive occasion of Chinese New Year, this dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty, representing a fresh start to the year with a burst of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking both a bit of heat and a touch of sweetness in their New Year’s feast.

Fish with Braised Mushrooms and Bok Choy

Fish with braised mushrooms and bok choy is a hearty and nourishing dish that combines delicate fish with earthy mushrooms and crisp bok choy. Often enjoyed during Chinese New Year, it symbolizes abundance and a good harvest. The braised mushrooms add a savory umami flavor, while the bok choy provides a refreshing crunch, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod or halibut)
  • 1 cup dried shiitake mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
  • 2 cups bok choy, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the shiitake mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice wine, stirring to coat the mushrooms. Add the vegetable or chicken stock and bring it to a simmer.
  4. Gently place the fish fillets in the pan, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
  5. Add the bok choy to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the fish and vegetables hot, garnished with additional ginger if desired.

Fish with braised mushrooms and bok choy is a nourishing and comforting dish perfect for Chinese New Year. The earthy mushrooms complement the delicate fish, while the bok choy adds a fresh, crisp contrast. This dish is rich in flavor, symbolizing wealth and prosperity, and provides a balanced, healthy meal to start the year on a positive note.

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed fish with ginger and scallions is a classic Chinese New Year dish, known for its delicate flavors and light yet satisfying texture. Steaming the fish ensures it stays moist and tender while the ginger and scallions add a refreshing and aromatic bite. It’s often served whole to symbolize completeness and good luck, making it a must-have for festive meals.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 whole fish (such as tilapia or sea bass), cleaned and gutted
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 3 slices ginger, julienned
  • 3 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
• Instructions:
  1. Set up a steaming rack in a large pot or wok. Bring water to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits comfortably inside your steaming pot.
  3. Scatter the ginger and scallions over the fish.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Pour this sauce over the fish.
  5. Carefully place the plate with the fish on the steaming rack, cover the pot, and steam for about 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked (the flesh should easily flake when tested with a fork).
  6. Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the steamer and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Steamed fish with ginger and scallions is a light yet flavorful dish that brings a fresh and vibrant touch to any Chinese New Year celebration. The simple ingredients highlight the natural sweetness of the fish, while the ginger and scallions offer an aromatic kick. As a symbol of wealth and prosperity, this dish is not only delicious but also steeped in tradition, making it the perfect way to usher in a prosperous new year.

Fish with Black Bean Sauce

Fish with black bean sauce is a savory and rich dish commonly served during Chinese New Year, known for its deep umami flavor. The black beans provide a salty, earthy base, while the fish remains tender and light. This recipe is a favorite in Cantonese cuisine and is often enjoyed as part of a festive spread to symbolize good luck and fortune.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 fillets of white fish (such as cod or bass)
  • 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and mashed black beans, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and sugar to the pan, stirring to combine.
  3. Stir in the water and bring the sauce to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Place the fish fillets in the pan, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
  5. Once the fish is done, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan to thicken the sauce. Stir gently to coat the fish.
  6. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Fish with black bean sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that packs a punch with its rich umami profile. The salty black beans and savory sauce elevate the mild fish, making it a satisfying main course for Chinese New Year. This dish symbolizes harmony and prosperity, offering both a delicious meal and an auspicious start to the year ahead.

Sweet and Sour Fish

Sweet and sour fish is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the crispy texture of fried fish with a tangy, flavorful sauce. A classic choice for Chinese New Year, this dish represents happiness and joy due to its vibrant colors and balanced taste. The sweetness of the sauce perfectly complements the fish, making it a festive and delicious centerpiece for any celebration.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or flounder)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  For the Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup onions, diced
  • 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
• Instructions:
  1. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Dip the fish fillets into the beaten egg and coat them evenly with the flour mixture.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. In a separate saucepan, combine the ketchup, sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  4. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce and stir to thicken it. Once the sauce has thickened, add the diced bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  5. Pour the sauce over the crispy fish fillets.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pineapple and vegetables.

Sweet and sour fish is a festive and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Chinese New Year with its bright, bold flavors. The crispy fish, paired with the tangy and sweet sauce, is a perfect combination that represents joy and good fortune. Whether served as part of a grand feast or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table and symbolize a happy start to the year.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!