8 Lunar New Year Foods: Feast for Prosperity and Luck

Lunar New Year isn’t just about red envelopes and firecrackers—it’s also a culinary festival of epic proportions. Every dish has a deeper meaning, often tied to prosperity, longevity, or happiness. So, grab your chopsticks and let’s eat our way through some iconic foods that make this celebration truly scrumptious.

Dumplings: Wrapping Up Wealth

Dumplings are a Lunar New Year essential, and their popularity goes far beyond their mouth-watering taste. These delightful parcels are steeped in symbolism, representing wealth and prosperity. Their crescent shape mimics the ancient Chinese gold ingots, making every bite feel like a nibble at fortune itself. Beyond the culinary pleasure, there’s a time-honoured tradition of making dumplings as a family. It’s a bonding activity, where grandparents, parents, and children come together to fold the wrappers and share laughter. Occasionally, a coin is tucked into one dumpling for an extra dose of good luck. Whoever bites into it is destined for prosperity in the coming year—just be careful not to chip a tooth during your treasure hunt!

Historically, dumplings date back over 1,800 years to the Eastern Han Dynasty, where they were crafted as a nourishing remedy for frostbitten ears. Renowned Chinese scholar Zhang Zhongjing filled them with mutton, herbs, and chillies to warm the soul and body during harsh winters. Today, the fillings have diversified, with pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and even dessert variations, offering something for everyone.

Pair them with jasmine tea or a light lager. Jasmine tea’s delicate floral notes complement the rich and savoury fillings, while the crispness of a lager refreshes the palate and balances the dish’s hearty flavours.

Spring Rolls: Golden Bars of Good Fortune

Spring rolls are more than just crunchy, golden snacks; they’re edible symbols of wealth and prosperity. Shaped intentionally to resemble gold bars, these deep-fried delights have become a quintessential dish during Lunar New Year festivities. Their crispy exterior and savoury, flavour-packed filling make them a favourite across generations, ensuring they take pride of place on any celebratory table.

The origins of spring rolls date back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (265–420 CE), when they were first created as thin pancakes rolled with fresh spring vegetables to celebrate the season’s arrival. Over time, these early versions evolved into today’s deep-fried variety, loaded with ingredients like pork, shrimp, cabbage, and bean sprouts, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Spring rolls are also beloved by celebrities and food enthusiasts alike. The iconic Michelle Yeoh has been known to indulge in these savoury treats during festive occasions, reinforcing their status as a luxury snack even among the stars.

Pair them with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to amplify their savoury richness or an aromatic oolong tea for a more traditional accompaniment. The wine’s citrusy notes and the tea’s slight smokiness both beautifully balance the indulgent fried goodness of spring rolls.

Whole Fish: Swimming in Abundance

The tradition of serving a whole fish during Lunar New Year is as rich in history as it is in flavour. The word “fish” in Chinese (“yú”) is a homophone for “abundance” and prosperity, making it a dish that symbolises surplus and blessings for the coming year. The presentation of the fish, intact from head to tail, is equally important, signifying a harmonious and auspicious start and end to the year. This age-old custom is deeply ingrained in both culinary and cultural practices across China and beyond.

But there are rules. Flipping the fish over while eating is considered extremely unlucky, as it’s thought to “capsize” your fortunes. This belief stems from fishing communities where flipping a fish was symbolic of a capsized boat—definitely not the energy you want going into a new year. Instead, diners carefully pick the meat off the top before delicately moving to the underside.

Whole fish has graced the tables of political leaders and cultural icons alike. Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of modern Singapore, often included it in his Lunar New Year banquets, favouring its deep-rooted symbolism and exquisite preparation. From steamed tilapia to soy-braised cod, each variation highlights the regional culinary artistry.

Pair this dish with a dry Riesling or high-quality green tea. The crisp, fruity notes of Riesling complement the savoury soy and ginger flavours perfectly, while green tea cleanses the palate, allowing you to savour every layer of seasoning.

Longevity Noodles: Slurp Your Way to a Long Life

Longevity noodles aren’t just a dish—they’re a ritual, a culinary embodiment of the wish for a long and prosperous life. The longer the noodle, the longer your life, as the saying goes. These uncut strands, often handmade with precision and care, are either served in a light, aromatic broth or stir-fried with an array of fresh vegetables and meats. Each preparation carries its own charm, but the symbolism remains constant: an unbroken strand represents uninterrupted fortune and vitality.

The origins of longevity noodles can be traced back to the Han Dynasty, where noodles were introduced as a staple food. Over centuries, they evolved into a celebratory dish associated with birthdays, weddings, and, of course, Lunar New Year. The art of slurping the noodles without breaking them has become an informal tradition. It’s not just about skill but a deliberate effort to honour the belief—breaking the noodle could symbolise cutting life short.

Even celebrities like Jet Li, renowned for his agility and martial arts mastery, have been rumoured to enjoy a hearty bowl of these noodles during festive gatherings. His appreciation underscores the universal appeal of this dish, transcending its symbolism to be loved simply for its deliciousness.

To pair, green tea’s cleansing properties complement the subtle, earthy notes of the noodles, while a light Pinot Grigio adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavours. Together, they enhance the experience, making each bite—and each slurp—a celebration of tradition and taste.

Glutinous Rice Cake (Nian Gao): Sticky Success

Glutinous rice cake, or “nian gao,” is much more than a sweet treat—it’s a symbol of ambition and rising fortunes. The name “nian gao” carries a double meaning, translating both to “higher year” and “a sticky year,” making it a dessert that embodies both progression and family cohesion. Traditionally made with glutinous rice flour and sugar, the cake is steamed to achieve its signature dense and chewy texture. Variations abound, with some recipes including red bean paste, dates, or even a golden crust from pan-frying slices after steaming.

Historically, nian gao has roots in ancient Chinese offerings to the Kitchen God. Before his annual trip to heaven to report on the household’s affairs, families would offer sticky nian gao to “seal his mouth,” ensuring he delivered favourable accounts. Over the centuries, this custom evolved, and the cake became a cherished part of Lunar New Year celebrations.

Its popularity isn’t limited to ordinary households. Jackie Chan, the internationally beloved actor and martial artist, has shared his love for this dessert, often mentioning how its sticky sweetness reminds him of cherished family gatherings.

Pair it with a fragrant cup of pu-erh tea. The earthy and slightly bitter undertones of the tea perfectly balance the cake’s rich sweetness, creating a harmonious finish to this festive treat. Whether served as-is or lightly pan-fried for added texture, nian gao is a dessert that sweetens the start of the year.

Mandarins: Citrus for Success

Mandarins are much more than just a citrus snack; they’re a powerful symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Their perfectly round shape signifies completeness and unity, while their vibrant orange hue resembles gold, making them a visual and edible representation of wealth and success. During Lunar New Year, mandarins are often given in pairs, as the number two is considered auspicious in Chinese culture. These pairs are exchanged as gifts between family, friends, and colleagues, carrying wishes for abundance and happiness in the coming year.

Mandarins have an illustrious history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, when they were cultivated as a luxury fruit for the imperial court. Ancient Chinese royalty, including emperors and their families, would stockpile mandarins during Lunar New Year to enhance the palace’s sense of prosperity and to honour their symbolic importance. This tradition trickled down to the general populace over centuries, solidifying the fruit’s place in Lunar New Year festivities.

In modern times, mandarins are still a staple of the celebration. Markets brim with meticulously arranged pyramids of the fruit, and their presence on dining tables or altar offerings is almost mandatory. They’re not just for show either; their sweet, juicy flavour is a refreshing counterpoint to the heavier dishes typically served during the season.

Pair these lucky fruits with sparkling water or Champagne. The bubbles in these drinks perfectly mirror the brightness and zestiness of the mandarins, creating a celebratory pairing that feels as lively and auspicious as the occasion itself.

Sweet Rice Balls (Tang Yuan): Togetherness in a Bowl

Sweet rice balls, known as Tang Yuan, are much more than a dessert—they are a deeply meaningful symbol of family unity and togetherness. Traditionally served in a warm, fragrant soup made from sweetened ginger or osmanthus syrup, these soft, chewy glutinous rice balls are a must-have for family reunions during Lunar New Year. Their perfectly round shape represents wholeness and completeness, making them an emblem of harmonious relationships and shared joy.

The history of Tang Yuan stretches back to the Song Dynasty, where they were originally called “Floating Yuanzi” due to their buoyant appearance when cooked. Over time, the dish became associated with celebrations like the Lantern Festival and Lunar New Year, evolving into a cherished tradition across China. Tang Yuan’s role in these festivities goes beyond its deliciousness; it symbolises the reunion of loved ones and the strengthening of familial bonds, much like the circles they form.

Tang Yuan has also seen creative innovations in modern kitchens. While the classic version remains unfilled, today’s Tang Yuan often hides delightful surprises like black sesame paste, peanut butter, red bean paste, or even molten chocolate. These fillings add layers of flavour and texture, appealing to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters.

Pair Tang Yuan with a sweet dessert wine like late-harvest Riesling or a cup of hot chrysanthemum tea. The floral and slightly herbal notes of the tea enhance the gentle sweetness of the rice balls, while the wine’s richness mirrors the indulgence of the dish. Whether shared at the dinner table or savoured quietly, Tang Yuan offers a heartwarming conclusion to any Lunar New Year feast.

Peking Duck: A Luxurious Treat

Peking duck is not merely a dish; it’s a spectacle of culinary artistry that has captivated diners for centuries. With its origins rooted in the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), this dish was initially a delicacy reserved for the imperial court. By the Ming Dynasty, it became a celebrated feature of Chinese cuisine, renowned for its intricately prepared crispy skin and tender, flavourful meat. The preparation process is a meticulous affair: the duck is air-dried, seasoned, and roasted to perfection, creating a harmonious balance of texture and taste that’s both indulgent and sophisticated.

Legend has it that Emperor Qianlong was particularly fond of Peking duck, often requesting it during his lavish banquets. Its reputation as a “meal fit for royalty” persists to this day, making it a sought-after centrepiece for festive occasions, including Lunar New Year. Beyond its imperial roots, Peking duck has become a global culinary icon, admired for the theatre of its presentation and the layers of flavour it delivers.

Traditionally, Peking duck is served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and julienned cucumbers and spring onions. Diners assemble their own wraps, savouring the interplay of the duck’s richness with the tangy-sweet sauce and the crisp freshness of the vegetables. Modern variations sometimes include additional accompaniments like pickled radishes or even foie gras for a contemporary twist.

Pair this luxurious dish with a robust red wine like Shiraz, whose bold flavours stand up to the duck’s smoky, savoury notes. Alternatively, Tieguanyin tea, a fragrant oolong, offers a more traditional pairing that complements the dish’s complexity while cleansing the palate for the next sumptuous bite.

Lunar New Year traditions

The Lunar New Year feast is far more than a culinary indulgence; it’s a deeply symbolic ritual steeped in centuries of tradition. Each dish on the table carries a deliberate meaning, embodying wishes for prosperity, longevity, or happiness. For example, fish represents abundance, while dumplings signify wealth. Even the arrangement and order in which dishes are served follow customs designed to invite good fortune.

The significance of the number eight plays a major role. In Chinese culture, the pronunciation of “eight” (“ba”) is phonetically similar to the word for “wealth,” making it a lucky number. As a result, many families aim to prepare eight symbolic dishes to maximise their luck for the coming year.

Another cherished tradition involves decorating the kitchen and dining areas with auspicious red paper cutouts or phrases, such as “May your storehouse be full.” These are often placed on fridge doors to metaphorically “fill” the household with abundance. Families may also light incense and offer the first servings of food to ancestors as a mark of respect, connecting the past to the present in their celebrations.