HEY there! Kung Hei Fat Choi!
For all our Fil-Chinese friends and even those who simply enjoy celebrating the Chinese New Year, you know it’s that time of the year when your house smells like tikoy and your fam is buzzing about what dishes to serve for luck.
To fellow Fil-Chinese, we don’t just feast for the fun of it (although, let’s be real, that’s a big part of it), but because each dish has a special meaning.
Here are 10 must-have foods we always prepare—because why not welcome the new year with all the good vibes and blessings?
1. Tikoy (Nian Gao)
Sticky, sweet, and oh-so-addictive! Tikoy symbolizes sticking together as a family and “rising” in life. Pro tip: Fry it with egg for that crispy-chewy perfection!
2. Dumplings (Jiaozi)
These little pockets of goodness represent wealth and prosperity since they look like ancient gold ingots. More dumplings = more money vibes. (Yes, please!)
3. Whole Fish (Yu)
Serving a whole fish (head to tail) symbolizes abundance from start to finish. Plus, saying “nian nian you yu” (a wish for surplus every year) is a family tradition at our dinner table!
4. Longevity Noodles (Changshou Mian)
The longer the noodle, the longer your life! Just don’t break them while eating—superstitious titas will definitely side-eye you.
5. Spring Rolls
Golden, crispy, and filled with deliciousness—spring rolls look like gold bars and are believed to bring wealth. I say, eat as many as you can for extra luck!
6. Sweet Rice Balls (Tangyuan)
Soft, chewy, and filled with sweet surprises—these little treats symbolize family unity and togetherness. Eating them makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
7. Mandarin Oranges (Juzi)
We hand these out like business cards during CNY because they symbolize success and good fortune. Plus, their bright color screams positive energy!
8. Whole Chicken
A full chicken on the table represents completeness and prosperity for the entire fam. Bonus: It’s also super yummy, especially when roasted or braised!
9. Fa Gao (Prosperity Cakes)
These fluffy little cakes symbolize wealth and growth—because who wouldn’t want more success in the coming year? We love adding a modern twist with ube or pandan flavors!
10. Tray of Togetherness
This snack platter is basically a goodie box of luck—filled with candies, nuts, and seeds that symbolize happiness and good fortune. Perfect for munching while catching up with the fam!
So there you have it—our go-to lucky dishes for Chinese New Year! Whether you believe in the meanings or just enjoy the deliciousness, these foods make celebrating extra special. Wishing everyone a prosperous and food-filled year ahead! 🧧🎉
