New Year's Recipes

25+ Traditional Chinese New Year Recipes to Bring Prosperity to Your Table

Chinese New Year is one of the most anticipated festivals worldwide, bringing with it a wealth of vibrant traditions, delicious foods, and the promise of prosperity in the year ahead.

The celebration is marked by the sharing of food that holds deep symbolic meaning, often representing wealth, happiness, and long life.

If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy the flavors of this festive occasion, we’ve gathered a collection of over 25 Chinese New Year recipes that bring joy and good fortune to your table.

From savory main dishes like sweet and sour pork to symbolic delicacies such as longevity noodles, these recipes will ensure your celebrations are filled with delicious flavors and rich traditions.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or cooking for yourself, this list of 25+ Chinese New Year recipes has something for everyone.

Get ready to explore a variety of dishes that embody the spirit of the holiday and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

25+ Traditional Chinese New Year Recipes to Bring Prosperity to Your Table

As you celebrate the beginning of a new year, let the food be a reflection of your hopes and wishes for the future.

The 25+ Chinese New Year recipes featured in this article are not just about satisfying your taste buds—they’re about bringing good fortune, joy, and prosperity to you and your family.

Whether you’re preparing a feast for a crowd or creating a more intimate meal, these recipes will help make your celebration as memorable and meaningful as possible.

So gather your ingredients, embrace the traditions, and enjoy a festive meal that symbolizes abundance, health, and happiness in the year to come.

Longevity Noodles (Chángshòu Miàn)

Longevity noodles are a Chinese New Year staple, symbolizing long life and prosperity. This dish features long, unbroken noodles stir-fried with vibrant vegetables, tender chicken or shrimp, and a savory sauce. The key to this recipe lies in cooking the noodles just right—never cutting them—to preserve their symbolic meaning. With bold flavors and an inviting aroma, longevity noodles are perfect for celebrating the start of a prosperous year.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh egg noodles
  • 1 cup chicken or shrimp, sliced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup Napa cabbage, shredded
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper

Instructions:

  1. Cook the noodles: Boil the noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper.
  3. Stir-fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok. Add chicken or shrimp and stir-fry until cooked. Remove and set aside.
  4. Cook vegetables: Add Napa cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms to the wok. Stir-fry for 3 minutes or until tender.
  5. Combine: Return the chicken or shrimp to the wok. Add the noodles and sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
  6. Garnish: Top with chopped green onions before serving.

This Longevity Noodle dish is not just delicious but deeply rooted in Chinese New Year traditions. The unbroken noodles symbolize a wish for a long and prosperous life, making them an essential part of the celebration. Share this dish with loved ones and savor the flavors of joy and fortune.

Sweet and Sticky Chinese New Year Rice Cake (Nián Gāo)

Nián Gāo, or Chinese New Year rice cake, is a traditional dessert that symbolizes prosperity and growth. Made with glutinous rice flour and brown sugar, this sticky, sweet cake has a chewy texture and a caramel-like flavor. It is often enjoyed steamed, pan-fried, or even as part of savory dishes. This simple yet meaningful recipe is a must-have for your New Year feast.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups glutinous rice flour
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Red dates or sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Dissolve sugar: In a pot, combine water and brown sugar. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool slightly.
  2. Make the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and salt. Gradually pour in the sugar syrup, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
  3. Prepare the pan: Grease a round cake pan with vegetable oil. Pour the batter into the pan.
  4. Steam: Place the pan in a steamer and steam over medium heat for 40–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Cool and garnish: Let the rice cake cool completely. Garnish with red dates or sesame seeds. Slice before serving.

Nián Gāo is more than just a dessert—it’s a sweet way to bring prosperity and happiness into the New Year. Its chewy, delightful texture makes it a favorite among all generations. Share this traditional treat with family to ensure a year full of growth and harmony.

Lucky Eight-Treasure Rice (Bā Bǎo Fàn)

Eight-Treasure Rice is a visually stunning and symbolically rich dessert served during Chinese New Year. The “eight treasures” represent good fortune, wealth, and happiness. This glutinous rice dish is layered with sweet red bean paste and adorned with dried fruits and nuts. Its balance of sweetness and texture makes it a festive finale to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste
  • 1/4 cup candied winter melon
  • 1/4 cup dried jujubes (red dates)
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup dried lotus seeds
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse the glutinous rice and soak for 4 hours. Steam until fully cooked. Mix with sugar and oil while still warm.
  2. Prepare the mold: Grease a bowl or mold with oil. Arrange the dried fruits and nuts decoratively at the bottom.
  3. Assemble: Layer half the rice into the mold. Spread the red bean paste evenly over the rice. Add the remaining rice to cover the paste. Press gently to compact.
  4. Steam: Steam the assembled dish for another 20 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Unmold and serve: Invert the mold onto a plate and serve warm or at room temperature.

Eight-Treasure Rice is not just a dessert but a centerpiece that brings the spirit of abundance to your table. Its intricate layers and vibrant presentation are a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. This traditional delicacy is sure to make your New Year celebration unforgettable.

Chinese New Year Dumplings (Jiǎozi)

Dumplings are a classic Chinese New Year dish, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots. These delightful pockets can be filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, and vegetables, making them versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, dumplings are a labor of love that brings families together during the festive season.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup water (for dough)
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup shrimp, chopped
  • 1 cup Napa cabbage, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Make the dough: Mix flour and water in a bowl until it forms a smooth dough. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the filling: Combine pork, shrimp, cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, white pepper, and salt in a bowl. Mix well.
  3. Roll the wrappers: Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into a thin circle.
  4. Assemble dumplings: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold and pleat the edges to seal.
  5. Cook the dumplings: Boil them in salted water for 5–7 minutes, steam for 10 minutes, or pan-fry until crispy on one side and steamed through.
  6. Serve: Pair with a dipping sauce of soy sauce, black vinegar, and chili oil.

Making dumplings for Chinese New Year is a cherished tradition that brings families together. These delicious, flavorful bites symbolize good fortune and are a wonderful way to welcome prosperity into the coming year. Enjoy them with loved ones for a truly festive feast.

Crispy Chinese New Year Spring Rolls (Chūn Juǎn)

Spring rolls are a symbol of wealth and prosperity, resembling gold bars when fried to a golden hue. Filled with fresh vegetables, tender meat, or savory shrimp, these crispy delights are a perfect appetizer for your Chinese New Year celebration. Their crunchy texture and flavorful filling make them a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients:

  • 12 spring roll wrappers
  • 1 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken or shrimp, shredded
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the filling: Stir-fry cabbage, carrots, and green onions in a pan with sesame oil. Add chicken or shrimp and soy sauce. Cook until tender. Let cool.
  2. Wrap the rolls: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of a wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edge with cornstarch slurry.
  3. Fry the rolls: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry spring rolls until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Serve: Pair with sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping.

Spring rolls bring a crunchy burst of flavor to your Chinese New Year table. Their golden color symbolizes wealth and success, making them a meaningful addition to the celebration. Share these crispy treats with friends and family for a festive start to the year.

Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed whole fish is a must-have for Chinese New Year, symbolizing abundance and surplus. The phrase “nián nián yǒu yú” (年年有余) means “may every year bring surplus,” and the word for fish, “yú,” sounds like surplus in Mandarin. This simple yet elegant dish features tender, flaky fish flavored with aromatic ginger, scallions, and a light soy-based sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole fish (sea bass, snapper, or tilapia), cleaned and scaled
  • 2-inch piece of ginger, julienned
  • 4 green onions, sliced into strips
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the fish: Pat the fish dry and make 2–3 shallow slashes on each side. Stuff some ginger into the cavity.
  2. Steam the fish: Place the fish on a heatproof plate and steam over medium heat for 10–12 minutes or until cooked through.
  3. Prepare the sauce: In a small pan, heat vegetable oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix until sugar dissolves.
  4. Assemble: Remove the fish from the steamer. Top with remaining ginger and green onions. Pour the hot sauce over the fish.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately with steamed rice.

Steamed whole fish is more than just a dish; it’s a wish for prosperity and abundance in the coming year. Its delicate flavors and elegant presentation make it a centerpiece for any Chinese New Year feast. Celebrate with this meaningful dish and start the year with plenty to look forward to.

Savory Chinese New Year Sticky Rice (Lo Mai Fan)

Sticky rice, or Lo Mai Fan, is a traditional Chinese New Year dish known for its comforting texture and rich, umami flavors. The glutinous rice is combined with savory ingredients like Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, mushrooms, and aromatics to create a hearty, satisfying dish. It symbolizes unity and togetherness, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings during the festive season.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups glutinous rice (soaked for 4 hours)
  • 2 Chinese sausages, sliced
  • 1/4 cup dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice: Drain the soaked rice and steam it for 30–35 minutes until fully cooked. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the toppings: Heat vegetable oil in a wok. Sauté Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and mushrooms until fragrant.
  3. Flavor the rice: Add the cooked sticky rice to the wok. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix until the rice absorbs the flavors evenly.
  4. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.

Savory sticky rice is a beloved comfort food that embodies the warmth of family traditions. Its hearty ingredients and symbolic significance of unity make it a perfect addition to your Chinese New Year feast. Share this dish with your loved ones and create lasting memories.

Chinese New Year Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Turnip cake, or Lo Bak Go, is a traditional dim sum favorite often served during Chinese New Year. Made with grated daikon radish, rice flour, and savory additions like Chinese sausage and dried shrimp, this cake is steamed and then pan-fried to golden perfection. It represents good fortune and is a delicious way to bring in the New Year.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb daikon radish, grated
  • 1 cup rice flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 Chinese sausages, diced
  • 1/4 cup dried shrimp, soaked and chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the radish: In a pan, cook the grated daikon radish with a pinch of salt for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Drain excess liquid but reserve 1/2 cup for the batter.
  2. Mix the batter: Combine rice flour, cornstarch, reserved radish liquid, sugar, and white pepper to form a smooth batter.
  3. Prepare the filling: Sauté Chinese sausage and dried shrimp in vegetable oil until fragrant. Add to the batter along with the cooked radish.
  4. Steam the cake: Pour the mixture into a greased pan. Steam over medium heat for 50–60 minutes. Let cool completely.
  5. Pan-fry and serve: Slice the turnip cake into pieces and pan-fry until golden on both sides.

Turnip cake is a savory and flavorful dish that’s perfect for ringing in the Chinese New Year. Its crispy exterior and tender interior offer a delightful contrast in texture, while its symbolism of good fortune ensures a prosperous year ahead.

Chinese New Year Sweet Sesame Balls (Jiān Dùi)

Sweet sesame balls, or Jiān Dùi, are crispy, chewy treats traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year. These golden, deep-fried delights are made with glutinous rice flour, filled with sweet red bean paste, and coated with sesame seeds. Their round shape and golden hue symbolize wholeness and prosperity, making them a favorite festive snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste (or lotus seed paste)
  • 1/2 cup white sesame seeds
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. Make the dough: Mix glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water to form a soft, pliable dough.
  2. Fill the balls: Divide the dough into small portions. Flatten each piece and add a small amount of red bean paste in the center. Seal and roll into balls.
  3. Coat with sesame seeds: Roll the balls in sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
  4. Fry the sesame balls: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown and puffed, about 5–7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.

Sweet sesame balls are a festive favorite that combines a crispy exterior with a chewy, sweet filling. Their symbolic round shape brings wishes of completeness and harmony for the New Year. Share these golden treats with loved ones for a joyous start to the year.

Longevity Noodles (Cháng Shòu Miàn)

Longevity noodles are a staple for Chinese New Year, symbolizing long life and good health. These noodles are typically served uncut to preserve their meaning, representing the hope for a long and prosperous life. Paired with stir-fried vegetables, shrimp, or chicken, this dish is flavorful and festive, perfect for starting the year on a positive note.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb fresh egg noodles or long wheat noodles
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup shrimp or sliced chicken
  • 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup bok choy, chopped
  • 1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper

Instructions:

  1. Cook the noodles: Boil the noodles according to package instructions, ensuring they remain long and unbroken. Drain and set aside.
  2. Stir-fry the protein: Heat oil in a wok and stir-fry shrimp or chicken until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the vegetables: Add garlic, carrots, bok choy, and mushrooms to the wok. Stir-fry until tender.
  4. Combine and season: Return the protein to the wok. Add noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Toss until everything is well-coated.
  5. Serve: Plate the noodles carefully, ensuring they remain long and intact.

Longevity noodles are more than a dish—they’re a wish for health, happiness, and a fulfilling year ahead. Their rich flavors and meaningful symbolism make them a must-have for your Chinese New Year feast. Enjoy this hearty dish with loved ones and embrace the traditions it represents.

Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs (Shīzi Tóu)

Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs are a Chinese New Year favorite, symbolizing family unity and prosperity. These oversized, tender pork meatballs are cooked in a flavorful soy-based broth and served with leafy greens, representing wealth. Their grand appearance and rich flavors make them a show-stopping centerpiece for any festive celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 cup Napa cabbage leaves
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Make the meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground pork, water chestnuts, egg, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, ginger, and cornstarch. Form into 4 large meatballs.
  2. Sear the meatballs: Heat vegetable oil in a wok and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Braise the meatballs: Arrange Napa cabbage leaves in a pot. Place the meatballs on top and pour in chicken broth. Simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes.
  4. Serve: Serve the meatballs with the braising liquid and steamed rice.

Braised Lion’s Head Meatballs are a hearty and symbolic dish that brings warmth and joy to Chinese New Year celebrations. Their rich flavors and tender texture are sure to impress, while their symbolism of family unity adds a meaningful touch to the meal.

Sweet Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding (Bā Bǎo Fàn)

Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is a traditional Chinese New Year dessert that symbolizes good fortune and happiness. Made with glutinous rice and adorned with eight types of sweet toppings like red dates, lotus seeds, and dried fruits, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Its sweet flavor and festive presentation make it the perfect way to end a celebratory meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups glutinous rice (soaked for 4 hours)
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste
  • 1/4 cup candied red dates
  • 1/4 cup lotus seeds
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice: Steam the soaked glutinous rice for 30–35 minutes until tender.
  2. Assemble the pudding: Grease a heatproof bowl with vegetable oil. Arrange the candied dates, lotus seeds, raisins, and apricots at the bottom in a decorative pattern.
  3. Layer the rice: Spread a layer of rice over the toppings, add a layer of red bean paste, then top with the remaining rice. Press gently to compact.
  4. Steam the pudding: Steam the assembled rice pudding for an additional 20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Invert the bowl onto a plate, drizzle with honey, and serve warm.

Sweet Eight-Treasure Rice Pudding is a dessert rich in tradition and flavor, making it a delightful way to conclude your Chinese New Year celebration. Its sweet taste and auspicious symbolism ensure a year full of joy and prosperity. Share this beautiful dish with family and friends for a memorable feast.

Chinese New Year Roast Duck (Kǎo Yā)

Roast duck is a classic dish for Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and happiness. The duck is marinated with a mixture of spices, then roasted to a crisp, golden perfection, with a juicy and tender interior. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply rooted in tradition, making it a perfect centerpiece for festive celebrations.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole duck (about 4 lbs)
  • 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the duck: Pat the duck dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat and trim the wings and neck.
  2. Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, five-spice powder, ginger, white pepper, garlic, and sesame oil.
  3. Marinate the duck: Rub the marinade over the entire duck, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
  4. Roast the duck: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 1.5 hours, basting with the marinade every 30 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
  5. Serve: Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with steamed buns or pancakes.

Roast duck is a luxurious and flavorful dish that perfectly represents the festive spirit of Chinese New Year. Its golden, crispy skin and savory, tender meat make it a showstopper at any celebration. Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, this dish promises a prosperous and delicious start to the year.

Chinese New Year Sweet and Sour Pork (Guo Bao Rou)

Sweet and sour pork is a popular dish often served during Chinese New Year to symbolize wealth and happiness. The crispy pork is coated in a tangy, vibrant sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup, offering a delightful balance of flavors. It’s an easy yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress guests during the festive season.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the pork: Dip the pork pieces in beaten egg, then coat them with cornstarch.
  2. Fry the pork: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or deep pan. Fry the pork pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same wok, stir-fry the onion, bell pepper, and pineapple chunks for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Combine: Add the crispy pork back into the wok and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the mixture. Stir well to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the sauce thickens.
  6. Serve: Serve the sweet and sour pork hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.

Sweet and sour pork is a flavorful dish that brings brightness and sweetness to your Chinese New Year celebration. Its combination of crispy pork, vibrant vegetables, and tangy sauce creates a harmonious balance that’s both festive and delicious. Serve this dish to wish your loved ones a year of wealth and happiness.

Chinese New Year Steamed Fish (Cìyú)

In Chinese culture, fish is a symbol of abundance and prosperity, especially during Chinese New Year. Steamed fish, typically whole, is prepared with simple ingredients like ginger, soy sauce, and green onions to highlight its natural flavors. The fish’s round shape and abundance of meat symbolize good fortune and wealth for the coming year.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole fish (such as tilapia, bass, or snapper), cleaned and scaled
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice wine
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 3 slices ginger
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the fish: Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry. Place the fish on a heatproof plate suitable for steaming.
  2. Season the fish: Lay the ginger slices on top of the fish and drizzle with soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and white pepper.
  3. Steam the fish: Set up a steamer or a wok with a steaming rack. Bring water to a boil, then place the plate with the fish on the rack. Cover and steam for 8–10 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. The fish should be cooked through and tender.
  4. Garnish and serve: Remove the fish from the steamer, discard the ginger slices, and sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

Steamed fish is a timeless dish that holds great significance in Chinese New Year celebrations. Its clean, delicate flavors and symbolic meaning of prosperity make it a must-serve dish for the occasion. Whether you’re dining with family or friends, enjoy this dish as a symbol of a rich and successful year ahead.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

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