30+ Must-Try Chinese New Year Goodies for a Prosperous Start

1 week agoLast Updated: December 10, 2024

20 minutes read

As the Chinese New Year approaches, it’s time to prepare for a celebration filled with tradition, family, and delicious food.

One of the most exciting aspects of this holiday is the array of Chinese goodies that are lovingly prepared and shared with loved ones.

These treats are more than just tasty snacks—they are symbolic, each carrying hopes for prosperity, happiness, and health in the new year.

From sweet and sticky rice cakes to savory spring rolls, Chinese New Year goodies are as rich in flavor as they are in cultural significance.

In this article, we’ve gathered over 30 delightful recipes that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of luck and joy to your celebrations.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes are perfect for making your Chinese New Year festivities unforgettable.

30+ Must-Try Chinese New Year Goodies for a Prosperous Start

With these 30+ Chinese New Year goodies recipes, you’re all set to create a feast that brings good fortune, delicious flavors, and unforgettable memories.

Each dish, from sweet sticky rice cakes to savory dumplings and fragrant sesame balls, is packed with meaning and flavor, making them perfect for celebrating the Lunar New Year with family and friends.

So, whether you’re preparing a traditional banquet or simply indulging in a few festive treats, these recipes will help you usher in the new year with joy, prosperity, and plenty of delicious food.

May this year bring you good health, happiness, and endless blessings.

Sticky Rice Cake with Sweet Red Bean Paste

Sticky rice cakes, also known as Nian Gao, are a traditional Chinese New Year’s treat symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Filled with sweet red bean paste, these chewy cakes offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This recipe is ideal for celebrating the Lunar New Year with family and friends, making it a cherished part of the festivities.

Ingredients:

1 cup glutinous rice flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water

1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
A pinch of salt
Banana leaves or parchment paper for wrapping

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add water to the mixture and stir until a smooth, thick batter forms.
Steam the batter over medium heat for about 20 minutes until it becomes firm and slightly translucent.

While the rice mixture is steaming, prepare the sweet red bean paste. If using store-bought paste, ensure it’s smooth and lump-free. If making it at home, cook red beans with sugar until soft, then mash until smooth.
Once the rice cake mixture has cooled slightly, divide it into small portions. Flatten each portion and place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center. Carefully fold the rice around the paste to form a small ball or oval shape.
Wrap each rice cake in a banana leaf or parchment paper and steam for an additional 10 minutes to fully set the shape.

These sticky rice cakes are a delightful way to ring in the New Year, bringing both a sweet treat and a symbol of luck and success for the coming year. The chewy texture and rich flavor of the red bean paste make them a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them as part of your holiday spread or gift them to loved ones as a token of good fortune.

Chinese Sweet Sesame Balls (Jin Dui)

Sesame balls are a popular Chinese New Year snack that symbolizes wealth and good fortune. Known for their crispy exterior and sweet, chewy filling, these golden treats are deep-fried to perfection, making them a beloved part of the celebration. The toasted sesame seeds add an extra layer of crunch, while the red bean or lotus seed paste inside offers a rich sweetness.

Ingredients:

1 cup glutinous rice flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup water
1/4 cup red bean paste (or lotus seed paste)
1/4 cup sesame seeds (white or black)

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and baking powder. Gradually add water to form a smooth, dough-like consistency.

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly and place a teaspoon of red bean paste in the center. Seal the dough around the paste and roll it into a smooth ball again.
Roll the balls in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they stick to the surface.
Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the sesame balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Chinese sweet sesame balls are a delicious and symbolic treat to celebrate the New Year. The crispy, golden exterior contrasts wonderfully with the chewy, sweet filling, making them a favorite snack for gatherings. Their round shape symbolizes unity and completeness, making them a meaningful addition to your festive spread.

Lion’s Head Meatballs in Broth

Lion’s Head Meatballs (Shizi Tou) are a hearty and flavorful dish typically enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These large, tender pork meatballs are braised in a savory broth and served with vegetables. The dish’s name is a reference to the meatball’s size, which resembles a lion’s head, and it symbolizes strength and family unity.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground pork (preferably with some fat)
1/4 cup water chestnuts, chopped

1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon cornstarch
6 cups chicken stock
2 cups napa cabbage, chopped

2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, water chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, ginger, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, egg, salt, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.
Form the pork mixture into large meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter.
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pot. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Once browned, add the chicken stock to the pot, along with napa cabbage and green onions. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the meatballs cook in the broth for 30-40 minutes, until they are tender and the flavors meld together.
Adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce if needed before serving.

Lion’s Head Meatballs are a comforting and auspicious dish, perfect for New Year’s celebrations. The combination of savory pork and aromatic broth makes this dish both flavorful and satisfying. As a symbol of strength and unity, it’s a wonderful choice for gathering friends and family together, enhancing the festive spirit of the holiday.

Fried Spring Rolls

Fried spring rolls are a staple in Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their golden, crispy exterior. These delicious snacks are filled with a mixture of vegetables, pork, and shrimp, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. Enjoying these crispy rolls with family and friends is a time-honored tradition during the Lunar New Year.

Ingredients:

1/2 pound ground pork

1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
1 cup cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup carrots, julienned

1/4 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
1/4 cup bean sprouts
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon oyster sauce
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

1 egg, beaten
20 spring roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Heat a pan over medium heat and add the ground pork. Cook until browned and crumbly, then drain excess fat.

In the same pan, add the garlic, mushrooms, and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add the carrots, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface, then spoon a small amount of the filling in the center. Fold the sides in and roll up tightly, sealing the edge with a bit of beaten egg.

Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the spring rolls in batches, turning them to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
Remove and drain on paper towels.

Fried spring rolls are not only a delicious treat but also a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Their golden, crispy texture and savory filling make them irresistible to all who try them. Whether served as appetizers or a side dish, these spring rolls bring both flavor and fortune to your New Year’s table.

Sweet Tangerine Cake

Tangerines are a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture, and this sweet tangerine cake combines their tangy sweetness with a light, fluffy texture. This cake is a perfect choice for celebrating the Lunar New Year, offering both a delicious dessert and a meaningful symbol of new beginnings and good fortune for the coming year.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs

1/2 cup fresh tangerine juice (from about 3-4 tangerines)
Zest of 2 tangerines
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup whole milk
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the tangerine juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust with powdered sugar.

This sweet tangerine cake is a delightful way to incorporate a symbol of luck and prosperity into your New Year’s celebration. The fresh citrus flavor gives the cake a refreshing and light taste, making it a perfect dessert to end your holiday meal. Sharing this cake with friends and family brings good fortune and sweetness to your festive gathering.

Steamed Lotus Seed Paste Buns

Steamed lotus seed paste buns (Lian Zi Bao) are a traditional Chinese dessert enjoyed during the Lunar New Year. Soft and fluffy, these sweet buns are filled with a smooth lotus seed paste that is subtly sweet, making them a perfect accompaniment to tea or a festive treat. They represent wishes for peace, prosperity, and happiness in the new year.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup water (lukewarm)

1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup lotus seed paste (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and baking powder. Add the lukewarm water, vegetable oil, and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a disc.
Place a teaspoon of lotus seed paste in the center of each disc and seal the dough around the paste, forming a smooth ball.
Place each bun on a square piece of parchment paper and arrange them in a steaming basket, leaving some space between each.

Steam the buns over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, or until fluffy and cooked through.

Steamed lotus seed paste buns are a traditional, symbolic treat for Chinese New Year. Their soft, fluffy texture and sweet filling bring both comfort and joy to your holiday meals. These buns are not just delicious—they carry a meaningful wish for peace and prosperity in the coming year, making them a perfect way to celebrate with loved ones.

Chinese Almond Cookies

Chinese almond cookies are a classic treat during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good luck and longevity. These cookies have a crisp, slightly crumbly texture with a delicate almond flavor, making them a favorite for both young and old. Whether enjoyed with tea or as part of a festive spread, these cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar and granulated sugar until light and creamy.
Add the almond extract, baking soda, and salt, and mix to combine.
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
Press a sliced almond on top of each cookie.
Brush the tops of the cookies with egg yolk for a shiny finish.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

These Chinese almond cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. Their crunchy texture, combined with the subtle almond essence, makes them an irresistible treat. Not only do they symbolize good fortune for the New Year, but they also offer a delightful way to share joy and blessings with friends and family during the holiday season.

Eight Treasures Congee (Babaofan)

Eight Treasures Congee (Babaofan) is a rich and flavorful rice porridge traditionally served during Chinese New Year. It symbolizes wealth and prosperity, as the eight ingredients used in the dish represent different forms of good fortune. This sweet, aromatic congee is the perfect dish to serve at the start of a new year, bringing warmth and harmony to the celebration.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup glutinous rice
1/2 cup regular rice

4 cups water
1/4 cup lotus seeds
1/4 cup dried red dates, pitted

1/4 cup dried longan (or jujube)
1/4 cup goji berries
1/4 cup rock sugar or regular sugar (to taste)
1/4 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts and almonds)
1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped

Instructions:

Rinse the glutinous rice and regular rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a large pot, add the rice and water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is soft and the porridge reaches a creamy consistency.
While the rice is cooking, prepare the other ingredients: soak the lotus seeds in warm water for 20 minutes, then drain; soak the dried red dates and longan in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain; chop the apricots and nuts.
Once the rice is cooked and soft, add all the prepared ingredients (lotus seeds, red dates, longan, goji berries, nuts, apricots, and sugar) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
Serve the congee warm, garnished with additional goji berries or nuts if desired.

Eight Treasures Congee is a dish filled with rich history and symbolic meaning. Each ingredient brings a layer of sweetness and health benefits, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing, lucky meal to celebrate the Chinese New Year. With its combination of textures and flavors, this congee provides comfort and joy, symbolizing the wish for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead.

Steamed Red Bean Paste Buns (Baozi)

Steamed red bean paste buns, or Baozi, are a popular Chinese New Year treat symbolizing good luck and wealth. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a sweet red bean paste that adds richness and depth of flavor. Steamed to perfection, these buns are a beloved part of the New Year’s celebration, often served alongside other savory and sweet dishes.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
Parchment paper squares (for steaming)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 10 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a disc about 2-3 inches in diameter.
Place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each disc and carefully seal the dough around the paste, shaping the bun into a round ball.
Place each bun onto a parchment paper square and arrange them in a steaming basket. Leave space between the buns for expansion.
Steam the buns over high heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the buns are puffed up and cooked through.
Remove the buns from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Steamed red bean paste buns are a symbol of good fortune, and their soft, delicate texture combined with the sweet, smooth filling makes them a favorite for Chinese New Year. Their round shape represents completeness and unity, making them a perfect dish to share with family and friends. Enjoy them fresh from the steamer for a truly festive and delicious treat.

Fried Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Fried sesame balls, or Jian Dui, are a traditional Chinese pastry commonly served during the Lunar New Year celebrations. These crispy golden balls are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated with crunchy sesame seeds. Symbolizing wealth and good luck, their round shape and golden color are associated with fullness and prosperity. These delightful treats are perfect for indulging in the festive spirit and sharing happiness with loved ones.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups glutinous rice flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup sweet red bean paste (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup sesame seeds
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the warm water and sugar, stirring until the mixture forms a smooth dough. Let the dough rest for about 30 minutes.
Divide the dough into small portions (about 1 tablespoon each). Flatten each portion into a small disc shape.
Place a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each disc. Carefully seal the dough around the filling and roll it into a ball.
Roll the balls in sesame seeds, ensuring they are fully coated.
Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sesame balls in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy (about 3-5 minutes per batch).
Remove the sesame balls from the oil and drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Fried sesame balls are not only a delicious dessert but also a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Their crispy exterior, combined with the sweet, soft filling, makes them a perfect treat to share during Chinese New Year. Whether enjoyed on their own or served with tea, these golden delights bring a festive, joyful touch to any celebration.

Chinese New Year Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a must-have during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. These golden, crispy rolls are typically filled with a mixture of vegetables, meat, or shrimp, and are often served as a savory snack or appetizer. The crispy exterior is a perfect contrast to the savory fillings, making these spring rolls a delicious addition to the holiday feast. They are believed to bring good fortune, as their shape resembles gold bars.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup cooked chicken, chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 package spring roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add the cooked shrimp and chicken (if using) and season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface and add about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
Roll up the wrapper tightly, folding in the sides as you go to form a neat roll.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the spring rolls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice (soy sauce or sweet chili sauce).

Chinese New Year spring rolls are a delicious and crispy treat that adds a savory element to the festive meal. With their symbolic shape representing wealth, they are perfect for bringing good fortune into the new year. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, these spring rolls will surely be a crowd favorite during any holiday celebration.

Lotus Root with Sweet Vinegar (Lu Dou)

Lotus root with sweet vinegar (Lu Dou) is a flavorful and symbolic dish traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year. The lotus root represents harmony and family unity, as it is a root that grows in a singular, continuous stalk. The sweet and tangy vinegar sauce adds an irresistible balance of flavors to the crunchy lotus root slices, making it a refreshing and auspicious dish to enjoy during festive meals.

Ingredients:

1 lotus root (peeled and thinly sliced)
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the lotus root slices and blanch for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crunchy. Drain and set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, salt, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce comes to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Pour the vinegar sauce over the cooked lotus root slices and let it marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Serve the marinated lotus root slices on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and chili flakes (if using).

Lotus root with sweet vinegar is a dish that brings both flavor and symbolism to the table during Chinese New Year. The crunchy texture of the lotus root combined with the sweet, tangy sauce makes it a refreshing addition to any meal. Beyond its taste, it symbolizes unity and good fortune for the year ahead, making it an ideal dish to share with loved ones during this special time.

Chinese New Year Nian Gao (Sweet Sticky Rice Cake)

Nian Gao, or sweet sticky rice cake, is a must-have dessert during Chinese New Year celebrations. The sticky texture and sweetness of this dish symbolize the hope for progress and growth in the coming year. Made from glutinous rice flour, Nian Gao is often enjoyed in both savory and sweet forms. The sweet version typically incorporates brown sugar and coconut milk, providing a rich and indulgent treat to celebrate the holiday. It’s believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and happiness.

Ingredients:

2 cups glutinous rice flour
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

Grease a round cake pan or mold with oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, coconut milk, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and water to form a smooth batter.
Slowly add the sugar-coconut mixture into the rice flour batter, stirring to combine.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Steam the cake over boiling water for 60 to 90 minutes, or until the Nian Gao becomes firm and translucent.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing into small pieces. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Nian Gao is not only a delicious dessert but also an essential dish symbolizing prosperity and success for the coming year. Its smooth and sticky texture makes each bite enjoyable, while its symbolic meaning of growth and good fortune is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Serve this cake during your New Year celebrations to bring blessings and sweetness to the year ahead.

Chinese Five-Spice Stewed Chicken Wings

Chinese five-spice stewed chicken wings are a flavorful and tender dish that is a favorite during Chinese New Year celebrations. The five-spice powder—made of star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel—adds a distinct, aromatic depth to the wings. Slow-cooked to perfection, the wings are soaked in a savory sauce that carries a slight sweetness from the addition of soy sauce and sugar. This dish symbolizes happiness and health, making it a perfect dish to start the New Year.

Ingredients:

10 chicken wings, tips removed
1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
3-4 slices ginger
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add chicken wings to the pot and brown them on all sides for 5-6 minutes.
Sprinkle the five-spice powder, soy sauces, sugar, salt, and pepper over the chicken wings. Stir well to coat.
Add water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let the wings simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the wings are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Once cooked, remove the chicken wings and arrange them on a platter. Serve with a drizzle of the sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.

Chinese five-spice stewed chicken wings are an aromatic and savory dish that brings comfort and joy to your New Year celebrations. The tender, flavorful wings symbolize happiness and the importance of family, as they are often enjoyed together. This dish will certainly be a crowd-pleaser and add a warm, savory note to the festive table.

Chinese New Year Tangerine and Osmanthus Jelly

Tangerine and Osmanthus jelly is a light, refreshing dessert perfect for Chinese New Year celebrations. The tangerine represents good luck and abundance, while Osmanthus flowers, with their fragrant aroma, symbolize longevity and elegance. This jelly dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful, visually appealing dish that enhances the festive atmosphere. Its delicate floral fragrance combined with citrus sweetness makes it a popular choice for a celebratory ending to any New Year meal.

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh tangerine juice (about 4-5 tangerines)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon Osmanthus flowers (dried or fresh)
2 teaspoons agar-agar powder (or gelatin powder)
Fresh tangerine slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, heat the water and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Add the Osmanthus flowers to the sugar-water mixture and steep for 5-10 minutes to release the fragrance. Strain out the flowers, leaving only the infused water.
In another saucepan, combine the tangerine juice and Osmanthus water. Sprinkle the agar-agar powder evenly over the liquid and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously.
Once the mixture has come to a boil and the agar-agar has fully dissolved, remove from heat.
Pour the liquid into small molds or a shallow dish and let it cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, refrigerate the jelly for 2-3 hours or until firm.
Garnish with fresh tangerine slices and serve chilled.

Tangerine and Osmanthus jelly is a delicate and fragrant dessert that adds a refreshing touch to your Chinese New Year meal. The combination of sweet citrus and floral notes creates a memorable treat that celebrates the season’s symbols of luck, prosperity, and longevity. This dessert is not only delicious but also beautiful, making it the perfect ending to a festive celebration.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

1 week agoLast Updated: December 10, 2024

20 minutes read