The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a time-honored celebration that marks the beginning of spring and new beginnings. As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one, our kitchens are filled with the aromas of traditional dishes that bring family and friends together. In this special edition, we’re sharing 20 deliciously traditional recipes that will help you ring in the Lunar New Year with a full table and warm hearts. From steamed whole fish to sweet tangyuan, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of China. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for new inspiration in your kitchen, these festive recipes are sure to delight. Let’s get started!
Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions
Elevate your seafood game with this aromatic and flavorful steaming recipe. This method helps retain the fish’s natural moisture and nutrients, while infusing it with the warm, spicy essence of ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (4-6 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin coins
– 1 bunch scallions, trimmed and chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket in a large pot filled with about 2-3 inches of water.
2. Rinse the fish under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, making sure it’s not touching the water.
4. Add the sliced ginger and chopped scallions to the steaming compartment.
5. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F).
6. Remove the fish from the heat, season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-30 minutes for a 4-6 lb fish
Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi) with Pork and Cabbage
These tender and savory dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine, filled with a delicious combination of pork and cabbage. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making these mouthwatering treats from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, stirring until dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
4. Roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon or two of filling in the center of each dough circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Cook dumplings by steaming for 10-12 minutes, or pan-frying with oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (steaming) or 8-10 minutes (pan-frying)
Sticky Rice Cake (Nian Gao) with Red Bean Filling
A classic Chinese New Year treat, Nian Gao is a sticky rice cake filled with sweet red bean paste. This recipe yields a tender and fragrant cake that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups cooked glutinous rice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
For the red bean filling:
– 1 cup cooked adzuki beans
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice, sugar, oil, eggs, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown.
5. While the cake is baking, prepare the red bean filling by mixing cooked adzuki beans with sugar and cornstarch.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spread the red bean filling on top of the cake.
7. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the filling is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spring Rolls with Shrimp and Vegetables
These refreshing spring rolls are filled with succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant herbs, making them a perfect treat for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts, and cabbage)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and slightly charred, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. To assemble the spring rolls, lay a wrapper on a flat surface and place a small amount of cooked shrimp and vegetables in the center.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including prep time)
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A classic Chinese dish, Braised Pork Belly is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 star anise
– 2 cloves
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch.
2. Add the pork belly and massage until coated evenly.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the pork belly on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the pork from the wok and set aside.
6. Add the garlic, ginger, star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick to the wok.
7. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
8. Return the pork belly to the wok and add enough water to cover it.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Longevity Noodles with Garlic and Soy Sauce
This Asian-inspired dish combines the simplicity of noodles with the depth of flavor from garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles or soba noodles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss with the garlic and soy sauce mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go) with Dried Shrimp
A classic Cantonese dessert, Turnip Cake with Dried Shrimp is a flavorful and savory treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of turnips with the salty, umami flavor of dried shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 large turnip, peeled and grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dried shrimp, rehydrated and chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated turnip, flour, vegetable oil, scallions, and garlic. Mix well.
2. Add the chopped dried shrimp, soy sauce, and salt. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Knead the mixture into a dough-like consistency.
4. Shape the mixture into small patties.
5. Pan-fry the turnip cakes in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Tangyuan in Ginger Syrup
Sweet Tangyuan in Ginger Syrup Recipe
Sweet tangyuan, a traditional Chinese dessert, is transformed into an even more scrumptious treat by infusing it with the warmth and spiciness of ginger syrup. This recipe combines the classic chewy texture of tangyuan with the invigorating flavors of fresh ginger and sweet syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried glutinous rice flour
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Bring the sugar and water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add the sliced ginger and cornstarch mixture to the syrup, stirring constantly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the syrup thickens slightly.
7. Add the tangyuan balls to the syrup and cook for 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eight Treasure Rice Pudding (Babaofan)
Eight Treasure Rice Pudding (Babaofan) Recipe
This traditional Chinese dessert is a sweet and creamy treat that combines the flavors of glutinous rice, sugar, and eight types of nuts. Perfect for special occasions or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cooked glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine it with sugar, chopped dates, walnuts, almonds, cashews, shredded coconut, sesame seeds, and salt in a large pot.
3. Add vegetable oil to the mixture and stir well.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy pudding-like consistency (about 30-40 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Stir-Fried Lotus Root with Snow Peas
This traditional Chinese dish pairs the earthy flavor of lotus root with the sweetness of snow peas, creating a harmonious and nutritious stir-fry. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the lotus root; stir-fry until slightly tender (2-3 minutes).
4. Add the snow peas; stir-fry until they start to soften (1 minute).
5. Season with salt and optional sauces (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Prosperity Toss Salad (Yusheng)
This traditional Chinese New Year salad is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, filled with juicy pineapples, crunchy vegetables, and savory nuts. Prepare to toss your way to a prosperous start!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, cabbage)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame oil for tossing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pineapple chunks, mixed vegetables, and chopped scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle roasted nuts over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the salad and toss one last time to combine.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and tossing)
Enjoy your Prosperity Toss Salad, a delicious way to start the new year!
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots
A delicate and aromatic dish that showcases the flavors of Asia, this recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy bamboo shoots in a flavorful steam-cooked broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster)
– 4 bamboo shoots, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the chicken, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken and vegetables, making sure they are coated evenly.
4. Steam the mixture for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bamboo shoots are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Glutinous Rice Stuffed Duck
A show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions, this glutinous rice stuffed duck is a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 cups glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pandan extract
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine glutinous rice, water, pandan extract, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
3. Stuff the duck cavity with the prepared glutinous rice mixture.
4. Drizzle sesame oil and soy sauce over the duck, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed duck in a roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the duck is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Pan-Fried Scallion Pancakes
A crispy and savory twist on traditional pancakes, these pan-fried scallion pancakes are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into balls.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Brush with additional vegetable oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Red Bean Soup with Lotus Seeds
Warm up with this nourishing and flavorful Red Bean Soup infused with the subtle sweetness of lotus seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup lotus seeds
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked red beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in ground ginger, cumin, and salt.
5. Add cooked bean mixture to the pan and stir well.
6. Simmer soup with lotus seeds for 10 minutes or until flavors meld together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
These soft, fluffy buns filled with savory pork and sweet hoisin sauce are a classic Cantonese dim sum treat. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Hong Kong’s street food to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup char siu (Chinese BBQ) filling (see below)
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
Char Siu Filling:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape.
6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of char siu filling in the center of each disk.
7. Fold the edges to form a bun and seal with a dab of water.
8. Steam buns for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Stir-Fried Clams in Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional clam dishes, this recipe combines tender clams with a rich black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add clams; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to open.
4. Stir in black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until clams are fully opened and sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Golden Fried Wontons with Sweet Chili Dip
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, golden fried wontons served with a sweet and spicy dip. Perfect for game days or as a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cups water
– Sweet Chili Dip ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add water and mix until smooth.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Brush edges with the sugar mixture.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing two opposite corners to meet in the middle. Press edges to seal.
5. Fry wontons in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with Sweet Chili Dip (see below).
Sweet Chili Dip:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Braised Shiitake Mushrooms with Bok Choy
Rich and savory, this dish is a perfect combination of earthy mushrooms and crisp Asian greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the chopped bok choy and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mandarin Orange Almond Cookies
Brighten up your day with these delicate and flavorful cookies infused with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon mandarin orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg, mandarin orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in sliced almonds.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Celebrate Lunar New Year with these 20 deliciously traditional recipes. From savory dishes like Steamed Whole Fish with Ginger and Scallions, Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou), and Pan-Fried Scallion Pancakes, to sweet treats like Eight Treasure Rice Pudding (Babaofan) and Mandarin Orange Almond Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Try making Chinese Dumplings (Jiaozi) with Pork and Cabbage, or indulge in Sweet Tangyuan in Ginger Syrup. These recipes offer a taste of the festive season and are sure to delight friends and family.
