修元健康网Introduction
Spring festival or Chinese New Year is one of the biggest and most important festivals for the Chinese. The festival is celebrated for fifteen days, and the traditional dishes served during this period deserves special attention. Let’s take a look at some of the popular dishes that are a must-have on the dinner table during this festive season.
Hot Pot
The hot pot is a traditional Chinese meal that is particularly popular during spring festival. This communal dish is served in a large pot set in the middle of the table, and everyone dips raw meat, vegetables, and noodles into the simmering broth. The hot pot is an excellent choice for a large gathering as everyone can get their fill depending on their taste.
Jiaozi
Jiaozi is one of the most popular dishes served during Chinese New Year. These dumplings are made from a mixture of minced meat and vegetables and wrapped in a thin dough skin. The shape of the jiaozi is traditionally similar to ancient Chinese gold or silver ingots, as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Jiaozi is often served as a snack or appetizer but can also be a main meal for those who prefer it.
Steamed Fish
The steamed fish dish is a staple during Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner. The fish symbolizes prosperity and abundance, and it is usually served whole with its head and tail intact. The Chinese word for fish, ‘Yu,’ sounds similar to the word for surplus or abundance. The fish must be served with the head and tail intact to signify that there will be a good beginning and end.
Nian Gao
Nian Gao is a sticky rice cake that is widely consumed during Chinese New Year. The cake is made from glutinous rice flour and is eaten both sweet or savory. The cake symbolizes progress, and its name sounds similar to ‘higher’ or ‘greater,’ signifying a good upward trend in fortune in the upcoming year.
Conclusion
The Chinese New Year’s festival is incomplete without the traditional dishes that are an essential part of the celebrations. These dishes symbolize good fortune, prosperity, and abundance and bring people together to strengthen their bond. The above dishes are just a few examples of the many traditional foods that one can enjoy during this festive season.