25+ Delicious New Year’s Chinese Recipes to Share with Family

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As the Lunar New Year approaches, families across the globe come together to celebrate the beginning of a new year filled with hope, prosperity, and joy.

Food plays a pivotal role in these festivities, as many traditional dishes are steeped in cultural significance and symbolism.

From delectable dumplings to fragrant braised meats and delightful desserts, each recipe tells a story and carries wishes for health, wealth, and happiness.

In this article, we’ll explore over 25 mouthwatering Chinese recipes that will not only elevate your New Year’s feast but also bring family and friends together in the spirit of celebration.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these dishes will inspire you to create a festive meal that honors tradition while delighting the taste buds.

25+ Delicious New Year’s Chinese Recipes to Share with Family

Celebrating the Lunar New Year is a time-honored tradition that emphasizes family, togetherness, and the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

The dishes you serve during this festive season carry deeper meanings, and preparing these recipes can be a joyful experience that brings loved ones closer.

With the 25+ New Year’s Chinese recipes highlighted in this article, you can create a vibrant and diverse menu that showcases the richness of Chinese culinary traditions.

Embrace the flavors, share the love, and make memories around the dining table as you welcome the New Year with open arms.

May your celebrations be filled with laughter, happiness, and the promise of a bright future!

New Year’s Chinese Dumpling Recipes

Dumplings are a staple in Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and wealth. They’re not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize with fillings such as pork, shrimp, vegetables, or a combination. Making dumplings is often a family affair, where everyone gathers to wrap and shape these little pockets of flavor together, adding a sense of togetherness and warmth to the celebration. These dumplings are sure to bring flavor and joy to your New Year’s feast!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup shrimp, peeled and chopped
  • 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and water to make the dough. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. For the filling, combine ground pork, shrimp, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
  3. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a thin circle.
  4. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each dough circle, fold in half, and press the edges to seal. For extra decoration, pinch the edges to create pleats.
  5. In a pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the dumplings and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, then add a splash of water, cover, and steam until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
  6. Serve hot with soy sauce, vinegar, or chili oil for dipping.

Dumplings are a classic for a reason: they’re flavorful, comforting, and bring people together. Each bite brings out the rich, savory flavors of pork, shrimp, and aromatics, making them perfect for celebrating the new year. Serve these dumplings as an appetizer or a main course, and enjoy the tradition of sharing a meal that symbolizes luck and prosperity.

Chinese Sweet Rice Ball (Tangyuan) Recipes

Sweet rice balls, or Tangyuan, are a traditional dessert often enjoyed during festivals and the New Year. They’re made of glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet fillings like black sesame, red bean paste, or peanut butter. The round shape of Tangyuan symbolizes family unity and togetherness, making it an ideal dessert to end a New Year’s feast. Easy to make and fun to eat, Tangyuan brings sweetness to the occasion while honoring tradition.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 1/2 cup water (plus extra if needed)
  • 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Toast the black sesame seeds in a pan over low heat until fragrant. Grind them into a fine powder and mix with sugar and melted butter to form a paste. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and water until a dough forms. Knead until smooth.
  3. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each one. Place a small amount of the black sesame filling in the center, wrap the dough around it, and roll into a ball.
  4. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the rice balls and cook until they float to the surface (about 5-7 minutes).
  5. Serve warm in a bowl of the cooking water, or add a little sweetened ginger syrup if desired.

Tangyuan offers a sweet and satisfying end to your New Year’s celebration. The combination of chewy rice dough and the rich, nutty sesame filling makes for an indulgent treat that is full of symbolism. This simple yet delicious dessert reminds everyone of the importance of family unity and the sweetness of togetherness, making it the perfect way to celebrate.

Chinese Longevity Noodles Recipes

Longevity noodles are a must-have dish during Chinese New Year, representing long life and good fortune. These noodles, often served uncut to symbolize a long and prosperous life, are typically stir-fried or served in a savory broth. Topped with vegetables, meat, or seafood, this dish is both nutritious and delicious, making it a great way to kick off the new year with health and happiness.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz longevity noodles or egg noodles
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup bok choy, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, then set aside.
  3. Add the mushrooms, carrots, and bok choy to the pan, and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  4. Return the shrimp to the pan, add the noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, and toss to coat. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Longevity noodles are more than just a tasty dish; they carry deep meaning and tradition. Serving these noodles for New Year’s brings an element of hope and positivity, symbolizing wishes for a long and fulfilling life. Each bite of these flavorful, saucy noodles celebrates the joy of good health and fortune, setting the tone for a prosperous year ahead.

Chinese Steamed Fish Recipes

In Chinese culture, fish symbolizes abundance and surplus, making it a meaningful dish for New Year celebrations. Steamed fish is a popular choice, as it preserves the fish’s natural flavors and is often garnished with ginger, scallions, and a light soy sauce to enhance its delicate taste. This simple yet elegant recipe is an auspicious addition to any New Year’s feast, bringing wishes of wealth and prosperity.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole fish (such as sea bass or snapper), cleaned and scaled
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, julienned
  • 2 green onions, julienned
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice wine
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the fish and pat it dry. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits into a steamer. Spread half of the ginger and green onions over the fish.
  3. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
  4. In a small saucepan, heat the soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the steamed fish and garnish with the remaining ginger and green onions.
  5. Serve hot, and enjoy the tender, flavorful fish.

Steamed fish is not only a delicious choice but also a meaningful one for the New Year. This simple recipe showcases the freshness of the fish while delivering a light, savory sauce. As you enjoy each bite, let it remind you of abundance and the hope for plenty in the year ahead. It’s a tasty tradition that brings a little extra luck to the table.

Chinese Spring Roll Recipes

Spring rolls are a beloved appetizer for Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to gold bars. They’re crispy, golden, and filled with savory vegetables, meat, or seafood, making them a satisfying addition to any New Year celebration. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these crunchy rolls bring a touch of prosperity to your festivities.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 lb ground pork or shrimp
  • 1 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 12 spring roll wrappers
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, cook the ground pork (or shrimp) until done. Add the cabbage, carrots, and green onions, and stir-fry until the vegetables are tender.
  2. Season with soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir to combine. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
  3. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface and spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the filling near one corner. Roll up the wrapper tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, and seal the edge with a little water.
  4. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve with dipping sauce and enjoy!

Crispy and savory, spring rolls are a crowd-pleaser that bring good fortune to the New Year table. The golden, crunchy exterior contrasts perfectly with the flavorful filling, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Share these with loved ones to celebrate the start of a prosperous new year and indulge in the delightful symbolism of “eating gold.”

Chinese Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) Recipes

Braised pork belly, or “Hong Shao Rou,” is a rich, flavorful dish that is loved across China. This dish represents prosperity and is often served during special occasions, including the New Year. The pork belly is slow-cooked in a savory-sweet sauce until it becomes tender and caramelized, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s packed with flavor. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that will surely bring joy and warmth to your celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pork belly, cut into cubes
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 star anise
  • 1-inch ginger, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the pork belly in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook until it caramelizes, then add the pork belly and stir until coated.
  3. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, water, star anise, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 45-60 minutes until the pork is tender and the sauce is thickened.
  4. Season with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Braised pork belly is a flavorful dish that embodies comfort and richness, perfect for a festive New Year meal. Each tender piece is infused with the savory-sweet flavors of soy sauce, caramelized sugar, and spices, creating a dish that warms the soul. As you enjoy this traditional recipe, embrace its symbolism of prosperity and abundance, and savor the joy of sharing a meaningful, delicious meal with loved ones.

Chinese Lion’s Head Meatballs Recipes

Lion’s Head Meatballs, or “Shīzi Tóu,” are a popular and symbolic dish often served during Chinese New Year. These oversized meatballs, typically made with pork, represent strength, prosperity, and family unity. Cooked in a flavorful broth with Napa cabbage, the dish is both comforting and celebratory. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a standout choice for any festive meal, bringing hearty joy to the New Year’s table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup water chestnuts, chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 head of Napa cabbage, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, egg, water chestnuts, green onions, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into large meatballs.
  2. In a large pan or wok, heat oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
  3. Place the chopped cabbage at the bottom of a pot, add the meatballs, and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
  4. Serve hot with a ladle of broth and cabbage.

Lion’s Head Meatballs bring bold flavors and a sense of tradition to the New Year celebration. The tender, juicy meatballs, simmered with cabbage in a light broth, create a dish that is as comforting as it is symbolic. Perfect for sharing with loved ones, this recipe highlights family unity and strength, making it a must-have for welcoming a prosperous year.

Chinese Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding Recipes

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is a traditional Chinese dessert that’s often enjoyed during New Year celebrations. The “eight treasures” refer to a mix of colorful and flavorful ingredients like red dates, lotus seeds, candied cherries, and other sweet toppings that symbolize good fortune and happiness. Made with sticky rice and sweetened fillings, this pudding is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a perfect end to a festive meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp raisins
  • 2 tbsp candied cherries
  • 2 tbsp lotus seeds, soaked
  • 2 tbsp dried apricots, chopped
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it for an hour. Drain and steam the rice for 30-40 minutes until soft.
  2. Grease a small bowl and arrange the dried fruits (raisins, cherries, lotus seeds, apricots) and sesame seeds at the bottom in a decorative pattern.
  3. Spoon half of the sticky rice into the bowl, press it down gently, then spread a layer of red bean paste on top. Cover with the remaining sticky rice and press down again.
  4. Steam the rice pudding for 15-20 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.
  5. Drizzle with honey before serving.

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a beautiful representation of prosperity and happiness. With each layer revealing a surprise of flavors and textures, this traditional sweet brings warmth and joy to the table. Its vibrant presentation and symbolism make it a meaningful way to end a celebratory meal, sweetening the start of a new year with good fortune.

Chinese Tea Eggs Recipes

Chinese Tea Eggs are a beloved snack and side dish often enjoyed during celebrations for their intricate marbled design and unique flavor. These eggs are boiled, cracked, and simmered in a fragrant mix of tea, soy sauce, and spices, creating a beautiful pattern and a deeply savory taste. They symbolize wealth and fertility, making them a thoughtful addition to any New Year’s gathering. Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, tea eggs are a delicious way to bring tradition to the celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 6 eggs
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 black tea bags (or 1 tbsp loose-leaf tea)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Place the eggs in a pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook for 6-7 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
  2. Gently crack the eggshells with the back of a spoon, creating cracks but keeping the shell intact.
  3. In a separate pot, combine water, soy sauce, tea, cinnamon stick, star anise, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then add the cracked eggs.
  4. Reduce the heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or longer for a stronger flavor. Allow the eggs to sit in the broth overnight if desired.
  5. Peel and serve, revealing the marbled pattern on each egg.

Chinese Tea Eggs are not only visually striking but also full of rich, spiced flavors that make them a unique addition to the New Year’s table. Each egg carries a subtle infusion of tea and spices, along with a beautiful marbled design that symbolizes wealth and good fortune. Simple yet special, these eggs are a delightful way to add cultural significance and delicious flavor to your celebration.

Chinese Nian Gao (Rice Cake) Recipes

Nian Gao, or Chinese rice cake, is a traditional dish served during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing progress and growth. The word “Nian” sounds like “year,” and “Gao” sounds like “tall” or “high,” making it a dish that signifies the promise of growth and prosperity in the coming year. Nian Gao can be prepared in various ways, but the sweet version made with red bean paste is a popular choice that brings a delightful texture and sweetness to the celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Optional: coconut milk for a richer flavor

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and water until smooth. Add sugar and mix well.
  2. Grease a round cake pan with vegetable oil. Pour half of the rice flour mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly.
  3. Spoon the red bean paste over the mixture, spreading it evenly. Pour the remaining rice flour mixture on top.
  4. Steam the cake over boiling water for about 40-45 minutes, until firm. Allow to cool, then slice into pieces.
  5. For a delightful variation, pan-fry the slices in a little oil until golden brown on both sides.

Nian Gao is a cherished dish that brings a sense of hope and prosperity as you step into the New Year. Its soft, chewy texture and sweet flavor create a satisfying experience that highlights the tradition behind this festive food. Sharing Nian Gao with family and friends is a way to express your wishes for growth and success in the upcoming year, making it a meaningful addition to your celebration.

Chinese Dumplings Recipes

Dumplings, or “Jiaozi,” are an essential part of Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Shaped like ancient Chinese gold ingots, they are often filled with various ingredients, including meat and vegetables, making them versatile and delicious. Making dumplings is a fun activity that families often do together during the New Year, bringing a sense of unity and celebration to the occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water (more as needed)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork or chicken
  • 1 cup cabbage, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix flour and water until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, combine the meat, cabbage, green onions, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Roll the dough into small balls and then flatten them into round wrappers. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper, then fold and pinch the edges to seal.
  4. Boil a pot of water and cook the dumplings until they float (about 5-7 minutes) or steam them for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Serve hot with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.

Dumplings are not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also a symbol of good fortune and wealth for the New Year. The act of making dumplings together fosters family bonding, while the delightful flavors and textures ensure that everyone enjoys the meal. Each bite represents a wish for prosperity, making dumplings a delightful centerpiece for any New Year’s feast.

Chinese Sweet and Sour Pork Recipes

Sweet and Sour Pork is a popular dish that adds a burst of flavor and color to any Chinese New Year celebration. This dish combines tender pork pieces with a tangy and sweet sauce made from vinegar and sugar, along with colorful bell peppers and pineapple. The balance of flavors in this dish symbolizes harmony and balance, making it a perfect addition to your festive table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions:

  1. Coat the pork pieces in cornstarch and shake off the excess. In a large pan, heat oil over medium-high heat and fry the pork until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, stir-fry the onions, bell peppers, and pineapple until tender.
  3. In a bowl, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. Pour the sauce over the stir-fried vegetables, bringing it to a simmer.
  4. Add the fried pork back into the pan, stirring to coat with the sauce. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Sweet and Sour Pork is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a delightful balance of tastes to your New Year’s celebration. The combination of tender pork, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sauce creates a festive experience that pleases the palate. This dish not only enhances your feast but also symbolizes the balance of flavors and harmony that the New Year promises, making it a wonderful way to ring in the festivities.

Chinese Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou) Recipes

Braised Pork Belly, or Hong Shao Rou, is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, particularly enjoyed during the New Year festivities. The dish features tender, succulent pork belly simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and various spices. This dish symbolizes wealth and abundance, making it a fitting centerpiece for a celebratory meal. The deep flavors and glossy appearance of the pork belly add a touch of elegance to your New Year’s feast.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup sugar (brown or white)
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
  • 2-3 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork belly and sear until browned on all sides.
  2. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot and sauté for another minute.
  3. Pour in the soy sauce, sugar, and water, stirring well. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  4. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Braised Pork Belly is a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also carries deep symbolic meaning for the New Year. Its rich flavors and tender texture represent abundance and wealth, making it a highlight of any festive table. This comforting dish is best served with steamed rice, allowing the savory sauce to enhance the meal. Sharing this dish with loved ones fosters a sense of togetherness, inviting prosperity into the New Year.

Chinese Stir-Fried Vegetable Noodles Recipes

Stir-Fried Vegetable Noodles are a vibrant and healthy dish that captures the essence of fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Often enjoyed during the Lunar New Year, this dish symbolizes growth and vitality, reflecting the hopes for health and happiness in the year ahead. The combination of colorful vegetables and chewy noodles creates a delightful and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz egg noodles or wheat noodles
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snow peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
  4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, along with the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss everything together to combine, heating through for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Stir-Fried Vegetable Noodles are a colorful and wholesome dish that celebrates the vibrancy of the New Year. This dish embodies the spirit of renewal and vitality, making it a perfect choice for your holiday table. The variety of vegetables not only adds texture and flavor but also conveys a message of health and well-being for the year ahead. Enjoy this dish as a light yet fulfilling meal, sharing the hopes for growth and happiness with family and friends.

Chinese Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan) Recipes

Sweet Rice Balls, known as Tangyuan, are a traditional dessert served during the Lantern Festival and throughout the New Year celebrations. These glutinous rice balls are typically filled with sweet red bean paste or sesame paste and served in a warm, sweet broth. Tangyuan symbolizes reunion and harmony, representing the family’s togetherness during the festive season. Their round shape signifies completeness and unity, making them a heartfelt addition to the New Year’s festivities.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 1/4 cup water (more as needed)
  • 1/4 cup red bean paste or black sesame paste
  • 4 cups water (for the broth)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1-2 slices of ginger (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour with water until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
  2. Divide the dough into small portions (about 1 inch in size). Flatten each portion and place a small teaspoon of filling in the center. Seal the dough around the filling and shape it into a ball.
  3. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Gently add the rice balls to the boiling water.
  4. Once the rice balls float to the surface, continue to boil for another 2-3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon.
  5. In another pot, dissolve the sugar in 4 cups of water. Add ginger slices if using, and bring to a simmer. Serve the cooked rice balls in the sweet broth.

Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan) are a delightful dessert that encapsulates the warmth and togetherness of family during the New Year celebrations. Their sweet, chewy texture paired with the comforting broth creates a delightful end to any meal. Serving Tangyuan is a way to honor the importance of family unity and the hope for a harmonious year ahead. As you enjoy these sweet treats, take a moment to appreciate the bonds of love and togetherness that make the New Year special.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!