25+ Healthy Chinese New Year Kid-Friendly Recipes for Your Child

Chinese New Year is a time for family gatherings, vibrant celebrations, and delicious food. As the festivities unfold, it’s essential to include dishes that everyone can enjoy, especially the little ones.

While many traditional Chinese New Year recipes might seem complex, there are plenty of kid-friendly options that are both fun to prepare and delicious to eat.

Whether you’re looking to involve your children in cooking or seeking simple meals to keep them entertained during the holiday, 25+ Chinese New Year Kid-Friendly Recipes offer a wide variety of dishes that combine tradition with a taste that’s perfect for young palates.

From sweet treats like homemade fortune cookies to savory dishes like crispy spring rolls, these recipes are designed to appeal to children’s tastes while embracing the spirit of Chinese New Year.

Each dish offers a playful twist on traditional favorites, ensuring your little ones are excited to celebrate this joyful occasion with their favorite flavors.

So, gather the family in the kitchen and explore these easy and enjoyable recipes for a memorable Chinese New Year celebration!

25+ Healthy Chinese New Year Kid-Friendly Recipes for Your Child

With 25+ Chinese New Year Kid-Friendly Recipes, your family can dive into the festivities with dishes that are both traditional and accessible to younger taste buds.

These recipes provide opportunities for hands-on cooking, helping children connect with the cultural significance of Chinese New Year while having fun in the kitchen.

Whether you’re making savory snacks or sweet treats, these kid-friendly recipes offer something for everyone, ensuring your celebration is filled with joy, laughter, and delicious food.

Enjoy the traditions, create new memories, and ring in the Lunar New Year with tasty dishes that everyone will love!

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple Fried Rice is a fun and vibrant dish that kids will love, especially when it’s served in a cute, edible pineapple boat! This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of rice and vegetables, creating a fun and tasty treat for the whole family to enjoy during Chinese New Year. It’s a colorful meal packed with nutrition and perfect for celebrating the festive season in a kid-friendly way.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably cold)
  • 1 small pineapple, cut in half and hollowed out
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 egg, scrambled (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A few pineapple chunks (from the hollowed pineapple)
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the carrots and peas, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
  2. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and scramble the egg on the other side (if using). Once cooked, mix everything together.
  3. Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and egg.
  4. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and add the chopped pineapple chunks and green onions. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  5. Scoop the fried rice into the hollowed-out pineapple halves for a fun presentation.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy the festive, colorful meal!

This Pineapple Fried Rice is not only delicious but also an exciting way to incorporate fun flavors into the Chinese New Year celebrations. The colorful vegetables and the sweet pineapple make it a visually appealing dish, and kids will love eating it straight from the pineapple shell! You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your child’s preferences, making this an adaptable and family-friendly dish. Perfect for bringing a bit of joy and creativity to your festive table.

Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce

Spring rolls are a classic Chinese New Year treat, and these veggie spring rolls are both healthy and delicious! Filled with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and lettuce, they’re wrapped in soft rice paper for a light yet flavorful bite. Paired with a creamy peanut dipping sauce, this dish is not only kid-friendly but also a fun way to introduce children to the flavors of Chinese cuisine. They’re easy to make and perfect for little hands to dip and enjoy.

• Ingredients for Spring Rolls:
  • 8 rice paper wrappers
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
• Ingredients for Peanut Dipping Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1-2 teaspoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
  • A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. To prepare the peanut dipping sauce, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add warm water, one teaspoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, dipping consistency.
  2. Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10 seconds, until it softens.
  3. Lay the softened wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a few slices of carrots, cucumber, lettuce, and herbs (if using) in the center of the rice paper.
  4. Fold in the sides of the rice paper, then roll it up tightly, like a burrito, until the filling is fully enclosed.
  5. Repeat with the remaining rice paper wrappers and vegetables.
  6. Serve the spring rolls with the peanut dipping sauce on the side for dipping.

Veggie Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce offer a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful option for celebrating Chinese New Year with your little ones. Not only are they full of vibrant vegetables, but the peanut dipping sauce adds a fun twist that children will find irresistible. These rolls are perfect for a light meal or a healthy snack, and their interactive nature (dipping!) makes them a fun family activity. Kids can get creative with what fillings to add, making these rolls both a customizable and nutritious dish for the festive season.

Red Bean Mochi

Red Bean Mochi is a classic sweet treat enjoyed during Chinese New Year and is known for its chewy texture and naturally sweet red bean filling. Mochi is made from glutinous rice flour, which gives it that delightful, stretchy texture that kids find so fun to eat. This dessert is not only a great way to celebrate the season but also a simple and kid-friendly way to introduce the flavors of traditional Asian sweets to your children. They’ll love making (and eating) these bite-sized delights!

• Ingredients for Mochi:
  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour (also called mochiko)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Cornstarch or potato starch (for dusting)
• Ingredients for Red Bean Filling:
  • 1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (if using homemade paste)
• Instructions:
  1. To prepare the filling, roll the sweet red bean paste into small balls, about the size of a marble, and set them aside.
  2. In a heatproof bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
  3. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it thickens and becomes smooth (about 2-3 minutes in total).
  4. Once the dough is ready, sprinkle a clean surface with cornstarch. Transfer the dough onto the surface and let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
  5. Take small portions of the mochi dough, flatten them into circles, and place a red bean ball in the center. Pinch the edges together and roll into a ball, sealing the red bean inside.
  6. Dust the completed mochi balls with more cornstarch to prevent sticking. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
  7. Serve the mochi immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Red Bean Mochi is a delightful and chewy treat that will certainly bring smiles to the faces of children during Chinese New Year. Its sweet, subtle red bean filling paired with the stretchy, soft texture of the mochi makes it a perfect dessert for little hands to enjoy. This recipe is a great way to involve kids in the kitchen as they can help fill and shape the mochi, creating their own personal treats. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the cultural significance of this traditional sweet, making Chinese New Year celebrations even more special!

Chinese New Year Fortune Cookies

Fortune cookies are a fun and sweet treat that are sure to bring excitement to any Chinese New Year celebration. These crispy cookies are filled with fun, personalized fortunes or messages, making them both interactive and delicious. The simple, kid-friendly recipe involves only a few ingredients, and kids will enjoy the process of folding the cookies and inserting their own special notes. These homemade fortune cookies are a great way to add a personal touch to your Chinese New Year festivities.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • A pinch of salt
  • Paper strips for fortunes
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk the egg whites and sugar until frothy. Add the vanilla, almond extract (if using), melted butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Use the back of a spoon to spread the batter into thin circles about 3 inches in diameter.
  4. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
  5. Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and work quickly while they are still soft. Place a fortune strip in the center of each cookie.
  6. Fold the cookies in half to form a semi-circle, then gently fold the edges over a spoon handle or the edge of a bowl to give them their signature fortune cookie shape.
  7. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, they’re ready to be served!

Homemade Fortune Cookies are a delightful and fun way to incorporate a traditional Chinese treat into your New Year celebration. Kids will love cracking open their cookie to reveal a fortune or message inside, adding an element of surprise to their meal. The process of making these cookies is simple enough for children to participate in, making it a great family activity. Plus, you can personalize the fortunes, creating a special moment for everyone at the table. These cookies will surely become a new favorite for Chinese New Year celebrations!

Steamed Dumplings with Sweet Soy Dipping Sauce

Steamed dumplings are a beloved Chinese dish, and they’re made even more fun when the kids can help shape and fill them! These dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, tofu, and seasonings, making them both delicious and healthy. The steamed method keeps them light and tender, and the sweet soy dipping sauce adds a touch of flavor that kids will love. They’re the perfect bite-sized snack for a Chinese New Year party or a family dinner.

• Ingredients for Dumplings:
  • 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 20-25 dumpling wrappers (available in most grocery stores)
• Ingredients for Sweet Soy Dipping Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, tofu, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Mix until well combined.
  2. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water, fold the wrapper in half, and pinch the edges together to seal the dumpling. Repeat until all dumplings are filled.
  3. Steam the dumplings by placing them in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until the wrappers become translucent and the filling is cooked through.
  4. While the dumplings are steaming, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  5. Once the dumplings are done, serve them with the sweet soy dipping sauce on the side.

Steamed Dumplings with Sweet Soy Dipping Sauce are a wonderful way to get kids involved in the kitchen while introducing them to traditional Chinese flavors. The dumplings are light, healthy, and full of flavor, making them a perfect choice for a festive meal. Kids will love dipping the dumplings into the sweet soy sauce, adding an extra layer of excitement to this already fun dish. Steaming the dumplings is a simple cooking method that keeps them tender and moist, making this recipe a great addition to any Chinese New Year celebration.

Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing

A vibrant, refreshing fruit salad is a perfect addition to any Chinese New Year feast. This kid-friendly recipe combines a colorful array of fruits, including mandarin oranges, pomegranate seeds, and kiwi, all tossed in a honey-lime dressing. The fresh and sweet flavors make it a delicious and healthy option for kids, and the fruit colors symbolize good luck, happiness, and wealth—ideal for the occasion. This simple yet festive dish is a great way to enjoy a light and nutritious treat while celebrating the holiday.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned in juice)
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1 cup diced pineapple
  • 1 cup diced watermelon
  • 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • A few fresh mint leaves (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, combine all the prepared fruits—mandarin oranges, pomegranate seeds, pineapple, watermelon, and kiwis.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lime juice until the honey dissolves.
  3. Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the fruit salad and toss gently to coat the fruit.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor (optional).
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold salad.

This Chinese New Year Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing is a light, refreshing dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to your festive meal. The vibrant fruits symbolize prosperity and good fortune, making it a fitting and healthy addition to the celebration. Kids will enjoy the sweet, juicy fruits, and the honey-lime dressing adds a delightful tang that brings everything together. It’s an easy recipe to prepare, making it perfect for busy parents who want to add a nutritious touch to the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Sweet Potato Balls

Sweet potato balls are a delightful and kid-friendly treat that’s often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for their symbolism of good fortune and prosperity. These sweet, chewy snacks are made from mashed sweet potatoes, coconut, and a bit of sugar, creating a comforting, bite-sized dessert. Kids will love rolling the sweet potato mixture into little balls and coating them with coconut flakes. This treat is not only delicious but also fun to prepare and enjoy together as a family.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for coating)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • A pinch of salt
• Instructions:
  1. Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water for about 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
  2. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them thoroughly until smooth.
  3. Add the shredded coconut, sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
  5. Pour the extra shredded coconut into a shallow bowl. Roll each sweet potato ball in the coconut to coat it evenly.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a bit to enjoy cold.

Chinese New Year Sweet Potato Balls are a tasty and symbolic treat for the holiday. The sweet potatoes represent wealth and good fortune, while the coconut adds a delightful flavor and texture that’s sure to be a hit with kids. Making these sweet potato balls is an easy and hands-on activity that children will love participating in, from mashing the potatoes to rolling the balls in coconut. This fun, simple treat will surely be a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert at any Chinese New Year celebration.

Rainbow Spring Rolls

Rainbow spring rolls are a fresh and colorful twist on traditional Chinese spring rolls, making them perfect for a fun, kid-friendly snack. These spring rolls are filled with vibrant veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, all wrapped in soft rice paper. Paired with a simple peanut dipping sauce, these spring rolls offer a refreshing and nutritious option for the little ones. The bright colors of the vegetables symbolize happiness, wealth, and good luck for the New Year, adding a festive touch to the meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 8-10 rice paper wrappers (available in most grocery stores)
  • 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup vermicelli noodles (optional)
• For Peanut Dipping Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Water to thin
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare all your veggies by thinly slicing the carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Set aside the cilantro leaves and vermicelli noodles if using.
  2. For the dipping sauce, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a little water to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Dip each rice paper wrapper in warm water for a few seconds to soften it. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
  4. Arrange a small amount of each vegetable (and noodles, if using) in the center of the rice paper.
  5. Fold in the sides of the rice paper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and fillings.
  6. Serve the spring rolls with the peanut dipping sauce on the side.

These Chinese New Year Rainbow Spring Rolls are not only visually stunning but also a great way to introduce children to a variety of healthy vegetables. The fresh ingredients and fun rolling process make them a wonderful hands-on activity for kids. The peanut dipping sauce adds a creamy and flavorful twist that enhances the spring rolls’ light crunch. These vibrant spring rolls symbolize the bright and positive beginnings of the New Year and are sure to be a festive, colorful addition to any celebration.

Egg Tarts

Chinese egg tarts are a classic dessert often enjoyed during Chinese New Year, loved for their creamy, smooth custard filling and flaky, buttery crust. This kid-friendly recipe simplifies the process while maintaining the delicious flavor, allowing children to get involved in creating these sweet, bite-sized treats. The egg tarts symbolize wealth and prosperity, and their delightful texture makes them perfect for a festive snack or dessert to share with family and friends.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 package of store-bought puff pastry (for convenience)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry and use a round cutter to cut circles to fit into the muffin tin cups. Press the pastry into the cups to form the tart shell.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  4. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared tart shells, filling each about 3/4 full.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set and slightly golden on top.
  6. Let the tarts cool before serving.

Chinese New Year Egg Tarts are a delectable way to celebrate the occasion with a sweet and custardy treat. These mini tarts are easy to make and perfect for kids to enjoy. The flaky pastry paired with the rich, smooth custard filling offers a delightful texture that will make this dessert a hit with the whole family. With their symbolic meaning of wealth and prosperity, these egg tarts make a perfect addition to your Chinese New Year spread and a fun recipe for kids to help create.

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings are a must-have during Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth and good fortune. These simple, kid-friendly dumplings are filled with a mixture of ground pork and vegetables, offering a savory and delicious bite in each dumpling. The fun part is that kids can help with folding the dumplings, making them a great hands-on activity for the whole family. Whether boiled or steamed, these dumplings are sure to be a festive addition to your Chinese New Year celebrations.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 lb ground pork (or chicken for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup chopped cabbage (or napa cabbage)
  • 1/4 cup grated carrots
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 package dumpling wrappers (available at most grocery stores)
• Instructions:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped cabbage, grated carrots, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger. Mix until everything is well combined.
  2. To assemble the dumplings, place a dumpling wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the filling into the center of the wrapper.
  3. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water, fold it in half, and pinch the edges to seal the dumpling. You can also pleat the edges to make them look more decorative.
  4. Bring a pot of water to a boil and gently drop the dumplings in. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the top and are fully cooked.
  5. Serve hot with soy sauce for dipping.

Chinese New Year Dumplings (Jiaozi) are more than just a delicious snack—they’re packed with meaning. The shape of the dumplings is said to resemble ancient gold ingots, symbolizing prosperity and wealth in the coming year. Kids will enjoy folding and sealing the dumplings, making this a great family bonding activity. Whether served steamed or boiled, these dumplings are a savory delight that will bring good fortune and joy to any Chinese New Year gathering.

Sweet Red Bean Soup (Hong Dou Tang)

Sweet Red Bean Soup is a popular dessert during Chinese New Year, offering a warm and comforting finish to the meal. Made with sweetened red beans, this soup is easy to prepare and offers a slight sweetness that kids will love. The red beans represent good luck, and the soup is often served with glutinous rice balls, which symbolize family unity. It’s a great way to introduce children to traditional Chinese desserts while keeping things simple and enjoyable.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup adzuki beans (red beans)
  • 5 cups water
  • 1/2 cup rock sugar or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cooked glutinous rice balls (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Rinse the red beans thoroughly and place them in a large pot with 5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45 minutes to an hour until the beans are soft.
  2. Once the beans are tender, use a spoon to mash a portion of them for a smoother texture (optional).
  3. Add the sugar to the soup and stir until it dissolves. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
  4. If using, add cooked glutinous rice balls to the soup and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Chinese New Year Sweet Red Bean Soup is a heartwarming dessert that kids and adults alike can enjoy. Its sweetness symbolizes good luck and prosperity, while the red beans are considered a symbol of wealth. This soup is easy to prepare, making it perfect for families with children. Add some glutinous rice balls for an extra layer of texture and fun, and you’ll have a traditional Chinese dessert that brings warmth and joy to your celebration.

Almond Cookies

Chinese Almond Cookies are a delightful, crunchy treat often enjoyed during Chinese New Year. They are a symbol of sweetness and happiness, making them a perfect snack to share during the holiday. With their simple ingredients and quick preparation time, these cookies are a fun baking project for kids. The buttery flavor of the cookies combined with the delicate almond taste makes them a perfect addition to any Chinese New Year feast.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup almond meal (or ground almonds)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Whole almonds for topping (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour, almond meal, baking soda, and almond extract to the mixture, and stir until the dough comes together.
  4. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Press a whole almond onto the top of each cookie.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
  7. Let the cookies cool before serving.

Chinese New Year Almond Cookies are a perfect combination of sweetness and crunch, making them a delightful snack for the little ones. These cookies symbolize good fortune and happiness, and their simple yet tasty flavors are sure to please. Kids will enjoy the process of rolling the dough and placing the almonds on top, making it a fun and interactive recipe for the whole family. Serve these cookies during your Chinese New Year celebration and spread joy and prosperity to everyone.

Noodles (Longevity Noodles)

Longevity noodles are a traditional Chinese New Year dish that represents long life and good health. The long strands of noodles symbolize longevity, making them an essential part of the holiday feast. This simple, kid-friendly version is stir-fried with vegetables and a savory sauce, making it both delicious and nutritious. It’s a fun and interactive dish for kids to help prepare, and they will love the rich flavors and soft noodles. Enjoy this dish as a symbol of blessings for a long and prosperous year.

• Ingredients:
  • 8 oz longevity noodles or any long noodles (egg noodles work well)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, julienned
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water
• Instructions:
  1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the carrots and bell peppers, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  3. Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables, and toss to combine.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and water.
  5. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss well to coat evenly.
  6. Garnish with green onions before serving. Serve warm.

Chinese New Year Longevity Noodles are a simple and meaningful dish for kids to enjoy. With their long strands symbolizing long life, they are a reminder of the blessings the new year brings. The stir-fried vegetables add color and nutrition, while the sauce brings the perfect balance of savory flavors. This dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to teach children about the significance of Chinese New Year traditions while enjoying a tasty meal together as a family.

Fortune Cookies

Fortune cookies are a beloved part of Chinese New Year celebrations, though they’re often thought to be an American invention. Regardless, kids will love these crispy, sweet treats that hold a secret message inside. Making them at home is easy, and you can customize the fortunes with messages of good wishes for the new year. Whether served as a fun dessert or used as party favors, these homemade fortune cookies will add a playful touch to your Chinese New Year festivities.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons water
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites and sugar until frothy. Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and whisk until combined.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until smooth. Add water until the batter reaches a smooth consistency.
  5. Spoon a small amount of batter (about 1 tablespoon) onto the parchment paper, spreading it into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
  7. Remove the cookies from the oven and quickly fold them in half, placing a fortune message inside. Press the edges to seal the cookie and shape it into a crescent. Use a muffin tin to help shape the cookies if needed.
  8. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.

Homemade Chinese New Year Fortune Cookies are a fun and interactive treat for kids to make and enjoy. The crispy, sweet cookie shell encases a hidden message of fortune, making it a playful addition to your Chinese New Year celebration. Kids can take turns cracking open the cookies to reveal their messages, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the meal. With a simple recipe and endless possibilities for customization, these fortune cookies will surely be a hit with both children and adults alike.

Sweet Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sweet Sesame Balls are a popular Chinese New Year dessert that symbolizes good luck and prosperity. Filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in crunchy sesame seeds, these deep-fried treats are a fun and indulgent way to celebrate the holiday. Making these at home is a fun activity for kids, who will love rolling the dough, filling it with red bean paste, and coating it in sesame seeds. These crispy, golden balls are a sweet way to end the celebration on a high note.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste (available at Asian grocery stores)
  • 1/2 cup sesame seeds
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
  2. Divide the dough into small pieces (about 1 tablespoon each). Flatten each piece into a small disc.
  3. Place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each disc, then carefully seal the edges and roll into a ball.
  4. Roll each ball in sesame seeds, coating it evenly.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the sesame balls in batches, turning them occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes).
  6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Chinese New Year Sweet Sesame Balls (Jian Dui) are a fun and delicious dessert that brings joy and prosperity to your celebration. Their crispy, golden exterior and sweet red bean paste filling make them irresistible, and they’re perfect for kids to help make. The process of rolling, filling, and coating the balls in sesame seeds will keep children engaged while teaching them about this traditional Chinese New Year treat. Serve them at your celebration and enjoy a sweet moment with family and friends.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!