The Lunar New Year began this Tuesday, February 17th, marking the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse, and with it return the traditions that promise to attract luck, prosperity and longevity. Between superstitions, rituals and color codes, there is one element that is never missing from celebrations: food, full of symbolism.
Celebrated in several Asian countries, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important moments in the traditional calendar. Families get together, decorate their houses with red and gold tones and carry out gestures that, according to popular belief, influence the year that is now beginning. At the table, each dish has a specific meaning.
According to the American magazine Real Simple, which specializes in leisure, several foods consumed at this time are associated with abundance and good fortune.
The publication brought together experts and cookbook authors who explain the origin and symbolism of these choices.
The dishes served during the Lunar New Year are not chosen at random. According to Peter Som, author of Family Style, cited by Real Simple, “traditional dishes are almost always linked to prosperity, longevity and good luck”. Tradition involves preserving shapes, colors and even numbers considered auspicious.
Among the most emblematic foods are dumplings. Annie Shi, co-author of The King Cookbook, reminds the same publication that, as a child, her family always prepared them on this date.
The shape, similar to ancient gold ingots, is associated with wealth. The fillings vary according to the region and family tradition, but the symbolism remains.
Whole fish and abundance
Another central element is the fish, which must be served whole. According to Jon Kung, author of Kung Food, also cited by the publication, fish represents abundance and good luck. The Chinese word for fish is homonymous with the word abundance, which reinforces the symbolism.
Tradition says that fish should not be cut into fillets before serving. Sophia Tsao explains that presenting it whole symbolizes wholeness and continuity, while breaking it can be interpreted as a sign of bad luck.
Long noodles and prolonged life
Noodles, a common presence in Asian cuisine, symbolize longevity. According to experts interviewed by , the longer the better, and it is not advisable to cut them during preparation or on the plate. The idea is to preserve the continuous thread, which represents a long life.
Sweets, number eight and prosperity
Desserts also have a prominent place. Annie Shi highlights the traditional eight treasures rice pudding. The number eight is considered particularly auspicious in Chinese culture, being associated with wealth and luck. The sweet is prepared with rice and eight ingredients, such as dried fruits, seeds or nuts.
The publication also explains that it is common to present a circular tray of sweets with eight divisions. The round shape symbolizes unity and continuity, while the sweet flavors represent a positive start to the year.
Citruses and wealth
Citrus fruits, especially tangerines and oranges, are another essential element. According to Peter Som, these fruits symbolize success and good luck. Its color, close to gold, is associated with wealth.
Sophia Tsao adds that the round shape again refers to the idea of continuity. It is common to see piles of tangerines on festive tables, used both for consumption and for decoration.
More than a simple meal, the Lunar New Year table becomes a symbolic space where each food carries a desire for the months to come. Between tradition and superstition, the celebration remains alive, renewing hope for a prosperous year.
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