Chinese New Year is a time for family, tradition, and—most importantly—spectacular food. Whether you’re hosting a feast or contributing a dish to a celebration, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference in creating a meal that honours the festive spirit. Fine Food Specialist is here to help you create a menu worthy of this special occasion, with carefully sourced ingredients that capture the essence of Chinese New Year.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn what dishes are traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year.
- Discover premium ingredients available in the UK to enhance your celebratory meal.
- Explore tips for serving standout dishes like abalone, dim sum, Peking duck, and more.
Abalone
Abalone has long been a prized delicacy in Chinese cuisine, representing wealth and abundance. Its tender texture and rich flavour make it a standout addition to any New Year’s menu. Traditionally braised with shiitake mushrooms and oyster sauce, abalone offers a unique balance of sweetness and umami.
In the UK, fresh and canned abalone are available, but sourcing high-quality varieties can be tricky. Fine Food Specialist provides premium-grade abalone perfect for showcasing this delicacy. Whether served as a main dish or incorporated into a soup, abalone sets a celebratory tone for your table.
Tips:
- Serve abalone with light, fragrant sauces to let its natural flavours shine.
- Pair with steamed vegetables for an elegant presentation.
Dim Sum
Dim sum is a versatile choice for Chinese New Year gatherings, offering a mix of textures and flavours in one sitting. From juicy dumplings to crispy spring rolls, these bite-sized treats are a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
In the UK, frozen dim sum is readily available, but making your own can add a personal touch to your feast. Consider using our ingredients, such as Berkshire pork for dumpling fillings or authentic Chinese rice wrappers.
Tips:
- Steam dim sum in bamboo baskets for a traditional flair.
- Serve with an array of dipping sauces, including chilli oil, soy sauce, and black vinegar.
Pecking Duck
Peking duck is a show-stopping centrepiece that symbolises fidelity and prosperity. Its crispy skin and succulent meat are beloved worldwide, and preparing this classic dish at home is easier than you might think.
Our pecking duck family box that’s been selected for its quality and flavour, ensuring the results will rival your favourite Chinese restaurant. For a traditional serving style, pair your duck with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced spring onions.
Tips:
- Air-dry the duck overnight for the crispiest skin.
- Use a sharp knife for thin, even slices.
Whole Fish
A whole fish, served with head and tail intact, is one of the most significant dishes during Chinese New Year. It represents completeness and a good year ahead. Popular preparations include steaming with ginger and soy sauce or frying for a crisp finish.
Finding the right fish in the UK is essential. Sea bass or Dover sole are excellent choices that can be sourced fresh from trusted suppliers like Fine Food Specialist.
Tips:
- Serve the fish as the final savoury dish to signify a prosperous year.
- Garnish with spring onions and coriander for added freshness.
Lunar New Year Desserts
No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without desserts. Traditional sweets like glutinous rice cakes (nian gao) and sesame balls bring sweetness and joy to the occasion. These desserts are not only delicious but also carry meanings of growth and happiness.
Tips:
- Use silicone moulds for perfect nian gao shapes.
- Deep-fry sesame balls until golden brown for a crunchy finish.
Chinese New Year FAQs
What are traditional foods for Chinese New Year?
Traditional dishes include dumplings, spring rolls, abalone, Peking duck, whole fish, and desserts like glutinous rice cakes.
Where can I buy premium Chinese New Year ingredients in the UK?
Fine Food Specialist offers high-quality ingredients perfect for crafting a festive Chinese New Year meal.
Why is a whole fish served during Chinese New Year?
A whole fish symbolises abundance and a good start to the year.
Can I make dim sum at home?
Absolutely! With ingredients from Fine Food Specialist, you can prepare restaurant-quality dim sum in your kitchen.
Celebrate this Chinese New Year with dishes that bring joy, meaning, and a touch of culinary flair to your table—crafted with care and premium ingredients from Fine Food Specialist.
As you prepare to welcome the Lunar New Year, Fine Food Specialist is your dedicated partner in creating a feast that transcends tradition and embraces opulence. Elevate your celebration with the richness of premium abalone, the artistry of dim sum, the grandeur of Peking Duck, and the symbolism of a whole fish centerpiece. May your Chinese New Year 2024 be filled with abundance, prosperity, and the exquisite taste of Fine Food Specialist's offerings. Gong Xi Fa Cai!
