25+ Classic Chinese New Year Traditional Recipes to Celebrate in Style

Chinese New Year is the most anticipated festival in Chinese culture, brimming with rich traditions, meaningful rituals, and, of course, mouth-watering dishes.

Food plays an essential role in the celebrations, with each dish symbolizing something significant—whether it’s wealth, health, happiness, or longevity.

The flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods reflect the deep cultural heritage passed down through generations.

If you’re looking to make your Chinese New Year feast authentic and filled with symbolism, our collection of 25+ Chinese New Year Traditional Recipes will help you prepare a meal that’s both delicious and meaningful.

From dumplings and spring rolls to tangy soups and sweet treats, these traditional recipes are designed to bring you and your family luck, prosperity, and joy as you celebrate the Lunar New Year.

25+ Classic Chinese New Year Traditional Recipes to Celebrate in Style

Celebrating Chinese New Year with traditional recipes is more than just preparing a meal—it’s about honoring history, culture, and family.

With 25+ Chinese New Year Traditional Recipes, you’ll not only enjoy a feast of diverse flavors but also invite prosperity and good fortune into the new year.

Whether you’re cooking up symbolic dishes for the first time or continuing an age-old tradition, these recipes are perfect for making the most of the holiday.

So gather your loved ones, cook these delightful dishes, and usher in a new year filled with blessings and joy!

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings are an essential part of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots. Traditionally, dumplings are prepared with ground pork, cabbage, and various spices, wrapped in a thin dough, and then boiled or steamed. The act of preparing dumplings together is also seen as a family bonding activity.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water (for dough)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. To make the dough, combine the flour and water in a large bowl, gradually adding the water until the mixture forms a dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel and set aside for 30 minutes.
2. For the filling, in a large bowl, mix the ground pork, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger and garlic, sugar, and white pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Roll the dough into a long cylinder, then cut it into small pieces (about 1-inch in length). Roll each piece into a small circle, approximately 3 inches in diameter.
4. Place about 1 tbsp of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pinching the edges together tightly.
5. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. When the dumplings float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove the dumplings from the water with a slotted spoon and serve immediately with soy sauce or vinegar for dipping.

Dumplings are not only delicious but also steeped in tradition, often eaten as a family activity during Chinese New Year. Their shape, resembling ancient gold ingots, symbolizes wealth and good fortune. Sharing a plate of dumplings with loved ones is a joyful way to ring in the New Year, while also inviting prosperity and happiness into the household.

Sweet Rice Cake (Nian Gao)

Sweet Rice Cake, or Nian Gao, is a traditional Chinese New Year dish that symbolizes progress and the promise of a better year ahead. Made with sticky rice flour, it is dense and chewy, often cooked with brown sugar and coconut for added sweetness. Nian Gao is believed to bring good luck and is commonly enjoyed in both savory and sweet forms during the holiday.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, brown sugar, salt, and coconut milk. Gradually add water while stirring to form a smooth batter.
2. Grease a round or square cake pan with vegetable oil and pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Set up a steaming rack in a large pot, fill the pot with water, and bring to a boil.
4. Place the cake pan on the steaming rack, cover, and steam for 40-50 minutes, or until the cake is firm and cooked through. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
5. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Serve sliced into squares or wedges.

Nian Gao is not only a delicious dessert but also a symbol of growth and progress, aligning with the theme of a prosperous New Year. The chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor make it a beloved treat that brings comfort and joy during the festivities. The dish is traditionally enjoyed with family and friends, marking the start of a year filled with promise and opportunity.

Longevity Noodles (Chángshòu Miàn)

Longevity noodles are a traditional Chinese New Year dish that is believed to bring long life and good health to those who eat them. The noodles are typically stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce. The longer the noodles, the greater the blessings for longevity and well-being. This dish is often served as a symbolic gesture for a prosperous and healthy New Year.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fresh or dried noodles (preferably long)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup bok choy, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and bok choy to the skillet, stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and white pepper.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, followed by the sauce mixture. Toss everything together to coat the noodles evenly.
6. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Longevity noodles are an auspicious dish served during Chinese New Year, representing wishes for a long and healthy life. Eating these long, uncut noodles symbolizes the hope for uninterrupted happiness and good fortune. This dish, with its savory sauce and nourishing vegetables, is a reminder of the importance of family, health, and vitality as we begin a new year filled with endless possibilities.

Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)

Spring rolls are a popular snack during Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth and good fortune. Their golden, crispy exterior is believed to represent gold bars, while the filling, often containing vegetables and meat, offers a perfect balance of savory flavors. They are often served as appetizers or side dishes at celebratory feasts.

Ingredients:

• 12 spring roll wrappers
• 1/2 lb ground pork or shrimp
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup carrots, julienned
• 1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 egg (for sealing)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the ground pork or shrimp until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, stir-fry the shredded cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the cooked pork or shrimp back into the pan.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
4. To assemble the spring rolls, lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner facing you. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the wrapper, then fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom to the top.
5. Seal the edge with a little beaten egg to keep the roll closed.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain the spring rolls on paper towels and serve with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Spring rolls are a quintessential Chinese New Year dish that not only satisfies the taste buds with their crispy, savory filling but also brings symbolic meaning to the table. The golden color of the rolls and their delicious contents represent wealth and prosperity for the upcoming year. Sharing these spring rolls with loved ones is a way to spread good fortune and enjoyment during the festive season.

Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

Braised pork belly is a beloved dish for Chinese New Year, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, savory flavor. The dish is braised slowly in soy sauce, sugar, and aromatic spices, creating a deeply flavorful and tender piece of pork. It is thought to symbolize abundance, as pork is a symbol of wealth and good fortune.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp rice wine
• 1/2 cup water
• 2-3 slices ginger
• 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the pork belly cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the ginger, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon stick, sautéing for a minute until fragrant.
3. Add both the light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine. Stir to combine, then return the pork belly to the pot.
4. Pour in the water, ensuring the pork is almost submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
5. Braise the pork for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened into a rich, glossy consistency.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.

Braised pork belly is a luxurious dish that embodies the spirit of Chinese New Year celebrations. The slow-braising technique allows the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that is tender and full of depth. With its symbolism of wealth and prosperity, Hong Shao Rou is a dish that is often reserved for special occasions, making it a perfect centerpiece for a festive meal with family and friends.

Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls)

Tangyuan, or sweet rice balls, are a traditional dessert enjoyed during Chinese New Year, symbolizing family unity and togetherness. The glutinous rice flour dough is filled with sweet fillings like black sesame paste or red bean paste and then boiled in a sugary broth. Tangyuan is not only a delicious treat but also a meaningful way to celebrate the importance of family and harmony during the holiday.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1/4 cup black sesame paste (or red bean paste)
• 1/2 cup rock sugar (or regular sugar)
• 4 cups water
• 2-3 pandan leaves (optional for aroma)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and water to form a smooth dough. Add more water if necessary, but the dough should be firm and pliable.
2. Divide the dough into small portions (about 1 inch each). Flatten each portion into a small disc, place a small spoonful of black sesame paste (or red bean paste) in the center, and seal the dough around the filling to form a smooth ball.
3. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot, adding the pandan leaves for fragrance if desired.
4. Gently drop the rice balls into the boiling water. Once they float to the surface, allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate small pot, dissolve the rock sugar in 4 cups of water and bring to a simmer to create a sweet broth.
6. Serve the cooked tangyuan in bowls with the sweet broth poured over the top.

Tangyuan is a dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and unity to the Chinese New Year table. The round shape of the rice balls signifies family unity and completeness, while the sweet filling symbolizes good fortune for the year ahead. Whether enjoyed with family or shared with friends, Tangyuan is a heartfelt dessert that encapsulates the joy and togetherness of the holiday season.

Longevity Noodles (Chang Shou Mian)

Longevity noodles are an essential dish during Chinese New Year, symbolizing long life and good health. The long, uncut noodles are believed to bring longevity and are often enjoyed stir-fried or in soup. This dish is a must-have for the celebration, as it represents wishes for a prosperous and healthy year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz egg noodles or any long noodles
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup bok choy or spinach, chopped
• 1/4 cup carrots, julienned
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms, bok choy, and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, followed by the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce.
5. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the noodles to heat through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Longevity noodles are a symbol of good health and long life, making them a perfect dish to serve during Chinese New Year celebrations. Whether served in a savory stir-fry or a hearty broth, these long noodles bring a sense of continuity and fortune. This dish is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family, health, and prosperity in the coming year.

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings are a traditional food for Chinese New Year, often filled with ground meat and vegetables. The dumpling shape resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Making and eating dumplings is a family affair, with each member contributing to the preparation, making it a perfect dish for gathering and celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork (or beef, shrimp, or chicken)
• 1/2 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1 pack dumpling wrappers
• Water (for sealing)

For the dipping sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, chopped cabbage, ginger, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Stir until the filling is evenly combined.
2. Take one dumpling wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center. Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water, then fold the wrapper in half to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, pleating if desired.
3. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
4. To cook the dumplings, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently drop the dumplings into the water and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the top and are cooked through.
5. While the dumplings cook, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes in a small bowl to make the dipping sauce.
6. Serve the dumplings hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

Dumplings are more than just food during Chinese New Year—they are a symbol of wealth, family togetherness, and prosperity for the year ahead. The tradition of making dumplings with loved ones is a joyous occasion, and each bite carries the hope of financial abundance and good fortune. The savory filling and crispy edges of the dumplings are a perfect representation of the celebration’s spirit of unity and happiness.

Tangerine Chicken (Cheng Tuan Ji)

Tangerine chicken is a sweet and tangy dish often served during Chinese New Year, symbolizing luck and new beginnings. The bright citrus flavor of the tangerine is associated with good fortune, making it an ideal dish to start off the new year. The crispy chicken is coated in a zesty sauce, making it both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup tangerine juice (or orange juice)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh tangerine zest (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until fully coated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate small saucepan, combine tangerine juice, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the fried chicken to the saucepan and toss to coat with the tangy sauce.
5. Garnish with fresh tangerine zest and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Tangerine chicken is a festive and flavorful dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds with its sweet and tangy notes but also brings the promise of good luck for the year ahead. The tangerine, as a symbol of fortune, makes this dish a must-have for Chinese New Year celebrations. Paired with its crispy texture and vibrant flavors, it is the perfect way to usher in a prosperous and joyful new year.

Sweet Rice Cake (Nian Gao)

Nian Gao, or sweet rice cake, is a classic dish served during Chinese New Year, symbolizing progress, growth, and the promise of a better year ahead. The sticky texture of the rice cake represents the idea of family unity, and the dish is often enjoyed for its rich, sweet taste. It is typically served in slices, and some versions include red bean paste or other fillings to add sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup red bean paste (optional, for filling)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and water until smooth, creating a batter. Add sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Grease a round cake pan or heatproof dish with vegetable oil.
3. Pour the rice flour mixture into the pan, smoothing the surface. If desired, spoon small dollops of red bean paste into the mixture for a sweet filling.
4. Steam the rice cake over high heat for 45-60 minutes, or until it becomes firm and translucent. You can check by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
5. Allow the rice cake to cool completely before slicing. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Nian Gao is an essential treat that marks the Chinese New Year’s emphasis on prosperity and unity. The chewy, sticky texture of the rice cake is symbolic of progress and achieving success. This dish holds great significance during celebrations as it embodies wishes for family harmony and individual growth. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a sweet filling, it adds a comforting and traditional touch to your festive spread.

Pineapple Bun (Bolo Bao)

Pineapple buns (Bolo Bao) are popular in Chinese bakeries and are often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast during Chinese New Year. Despite the name, they don’t actually contain pineapple but are named after their sweet, crispy top that resembles the skin of a pineapple. This soft, sweet bun is perfect for the holiday and is often served with tea or as part of a larger festive meal.

Ingredients:
For the bun dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cake flour
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir until dissolved and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture and knead into a soft dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. For the topping, mix together butter, sugar, cake flour, egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small portions, shaping them into balls.
5. Roll the topping mixture into small discs and place them on top of each dough ball, pressing lightly. Use a knife to score a crisscross pattern on the topping.
6. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the topping is crisp.
8. Let the buns cool slightly before serving.

Pineapple buns are a beloved treat in Chinese cuisine, especially during the New Year celebrations. Their crisp, sweet topping is a contrast to the soft, fluffy interior, making every bite a delightful experience. These buns symbolize good fortune and prosperity, and their presence at the table helps create a festive atmosphere. Enjoy them with tea or as a treat with family during your New Year festivities!

Whole Fish (Ji Yu)

Serving a whole fish is a common practice during Chinese New Year, as it symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and good luck. The word “fish” (鱼, yú) sounds like the word for “surplus,” which is why this dish is thought to bring a year of plenty and financial growth. This recipe for steamed whole fish with ginger and scallions is a flavorful, traditional dish that’s both simple and meaningful.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole fish (snapper or tilapia are popular choices), cleaned and scaled
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice wine
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
• 2-3 stalks green onions, sliced into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits into your steamer.
2. Place the sliced ginger and green onions inside the fish cavity.
3. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the fish, making sure it is well coated.
4. Fill a wok or large pot with water and bring to a boil. Place the fish plate in the steamer basket, cover, and steam the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flesh is opaque and easily flakes.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a small pan over medium-high heat. When the fish is done, pour the hot oil over the fish to sizzle and enhance the flavors.
6. Garnish with additional green onions and serve immediately.

The whole fish is a cherished part of Chinese New Year feasts, representing a desire for abundance and good fortune. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the fresh flavors of the fish to shine, while the steaming process ensures a delicate, moist texture. As you enjoy this dish, it brings not only a satisfying meal but also a wish for prosperity and happiness in the coming year.

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings (Jiaozi) are a quintessential food for Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold or silver ingots, which are believed to bring good fortune. Dumplings are typically filled with ground meat and vegetables, offering a savory and satisfying bite. They are often eaten at midnight on New Year’s Eve to usher in the new year with prosperity and happiness.

Ingredients:
For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the filling:

• 1/2 lb ground pork (or beef)
• 1 cup napa cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. For the filling, combine the ground meat, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, black pepper, green onions, and garlic in a bowl. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Roll the dough into a long cylinder and divide it into small, bite-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle, about 3 inches in diameter.
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges together to seal. Make sure the dumplings are tightly sealed.
5. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop the dumplings into the water, a few at a time. When they float to the surface, let them cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove the dumplings and serve hot with soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.

Dumplings are not just a dish—they are a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and family unity. Eating them during Chinese New Year is a way to wish for a prosperous year ahead. The combination of savory meat and fresh vegetables wrapped in soft dough makes for a delicious, comforting meal that brings warmth to the holiday season. Sharing dumplings with family and friends is an important tradition that reinforces bonds and celebrates the start of a new year.

Longevity Noodles (Chang Shou Mian)

Longevity noodles are a popular dish during Chinese New Year, symbolizing long life and good health. The longer the noodles, the better the wish for longevity! This dish is often served with a savory broth and topped with vegetables and meat. Eating these noodles is believed to bring blessings of a long and prosperous life, making them a must-have during the New Year celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz long wheat noodles (or egg noodles)
• 1/4 lb shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 lb bok choy, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, bok choy, carrots, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the pan, stirring to combine. Let everything heat through.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Longevity noodles are a flavorful and meaningful dish to enjoy during Chinese New Year. This dish represents wishes for good health and a long life, and it’s traditionally eaten to mark the occasion. The savory broth, combined with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, makes for a comforting and nutritious meal that carries great significance in Chinese culture. Sharing this dish with family during the holiday helps strengthen relationships and welcomes in a prosperous year.

Tangerine Chicken

Tangerines are often eaten during Chinese New Year because they are a symbol of good luck and wealth, as the word “tangerine” (橙, chéng) sounds similar to the word for “success” or “fortune” in Chinese. This tangy and sweet tangerine chicken dish blends the flavors of citrus and soy sauce, making it a perfect main course for your New Year celebration. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also carries the hope of a successful year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup tangerine juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the tangerine juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add the fried chicken back into the pan, tossing to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.

Tangerine chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that adds a touch of sweetness and brightness to your Chinese New Year feast. The combination of citrus and savory flavors is a perfect representation of the hope for success, wealth, and happiness in the year to come. This dish, with its crispy chicken and tangy sauce, will surely be a hit at your celebration and is a delicious way to ring in the new year.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!