Food is something that brings everyone together and one of the things we are all ready for is Chinese New Year food. extra money. So, Earthlings, pick up your chopsticks and let’s discuss this together. 12 must-eat dishes to make you lucky Like a pro.
Lunar New Year Food List:
Fish – big win
Fish is like Beyoncé’s Lunar New Year dish—a must. Why? Because the pronunciation of the word fish in Chinese is “yu”. So, eating it means you hope for leftovers (aka abundance) of life, money, and happiness.
Pro tip: Always leave a little fish uneaten. This is symbolic and complete chef's kiss.
Dumplings – a small fortune
The dumplings are shaped like ancient gold ingots, which basically makes them edible piggy banks. If you're looking for some real money vibes this year, dumplings are a must.
Bonus Tradition: Place a coin into one of the dumplings. Who found it? Grand prize.
Spring rolls – edible gold bars
The spring rolls are not only crunchy and delicious, but also have good luck wrapped in a golden outer shell. They literally look like gold bars, so apparently eating them is like summoning all the wealth energy for the year.
Glutinous rice cake (rice cake) – glowing target
This gooey sweet treat's name sounds like “Higher Year,” which is basically your annual glow-up mantra. If you just want to improve yourself – your career, your love life, your personal goals, you name it, eat this.
Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls – Family Time, Locked and Loaded
Tangyuan, or sweet glutinous rice balls, is full of family feeling. Their round shape symbolizes togetherness and togetherness, which makes them perfect for cozy family gatherings.
What to say when tasting these gems: “Tuántuán yuányuán” – aka “Cheers to a happy family atmosphere!”
longevity noodles – longevity noodles
Long noodles = longevity. But there's a catch: You have to eat them whole. Defeating these bad boys will end your luck, so don't even think about it. Whether fried or in soup, these noodles are pure life goals.
Lion head meatballs – bold, juicy and united
These giant pork meatballs are more than just a dish, they're a force. Named after the lion (a symbol of strength) and shaped for family unity, they are a bright addition to the New Year's table. Bonus points if you offer a Shanghai-style atmosphere.
Steamed Pork Belly with Taro – Famous Dishes
This layered masterpiece is like the rich aunt at the New Year’s Eve dinner. Juicy pork belly + smooth taro slices = wealth and good luck in every bite. If you're dining in the South, this is a dish not to be missed.
Xiazi – Laughing at your path to happiness
Shrimp brings joy because “ha” (the Cantonese word for shrimp) sounds like laughter. It's like the feeling of eating something good on a plate. Whether grilled, steamed or stir-fried, shrimp = an instant mood lift.
Vegetables – your green ticket to good luck
Don’t miss out on vegetables this New Year! Every vegetable on your plate is a lucky charm:
- lettuce: Symbolizes wealth.
- Chinese cabbage: Good luck.
- broccoli: Harmony and progress.
So, yes, eat more veggies—they’re basically edible good moods.
Fruit – the golden jewel of success
Round, golden fruits such as oranges, tangerines and grapefruits are the official fruits of the Lunar New Year. Orange = success. Grapefruit = richness. Plus, they look super cute Stacked on the table for your IG to lay flat on.
Here are 12 iconic Lunar New Year treats you can enjoy. From fish to fruit, these dishes are not only delicious, but are like manifestation tools you can chew. Now, BRB, I need to find a dumpling with a coin in it.
What do you think? Ready to dig deeper?
You can do the following Welcome the God of Wealth during the Chinese New Year