East and Southeast Asians worldwide are preparing to observe the Lunar New Year, set to begin on 17 February and extend for 15 days. Each year in the Chinese zodiac is associated with an element, and as we enter the Year of the Fire Horse, it signifies a time for significant life transformations, marked by intense action, personal development, and a rapid pace of life.
As this zodiac year only occurs once every 60 years, some individuals may not experience it again in their lifetime. To commemorate the Year of the Fire Horse, Angela Hui, an author, shared her affection for the Lunar New Year and the cherished moments shared with loved ones, along with a delightful recipe for home preparation.
Before venturing into the kitchen to try the recipe, why not create your own fire horse through the traditional Chinese art of paper folding, as demonstrated by Tesco? Simply print the provided template and follow the instructions in the accompanying video.
The Lunar New Year, often referred to as “Asian Christmas,” represents a time for family gatherings, paying homage to ancestors, and inviting good luck. One of the most beloved aspects of returning home during this festive period is the opportunity to cook alongside my mother, who is a chef. Despite the cliché, food serves as our primary means of communication, fostering a special bond between us.
Engaging in culinary activities together creates a timeless experience, where we exchange stories while crafting dumplings or preparing vegetables side by side. The unspoken rhythm in the kitchen brings a sense of comfort, where words are unnecessary, and simply being in each other’s company is fulfilling.
Food plays a crucial role in structuring our celebratory plans. In Chinese culture, it is customary to serve symbolic dishes that represent hopes for the upcoming year. Anticipation builds as we meticulously curate the family Lunar New Year menu days in advance, exchanging recipe suggestions, photos, videos, and voice messages. “A whole steamed fish is essential,” my mother insists, signifying wishes for abundance and prosperity.
Dumplings are another vital component, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Their shape mirrors ancient gold ingots, with the belief that consuming more will lead to increased riches. Brainstorming ideas, we settle on creating money bag dumplings using cabbage wrappers, meticulously planning eight dishes that symbolize prosperity, luck, and completeness for the occasion.
For those interested in cooking at home, I have shared a steamed fish recipe below, featuring ingredients that can be conveniently sourced from Tesco. The dish pairs perfectly with white jasmine rice and optional pak choi or choi sum, offering a delightful Lunar New Year feast.
In summary, while the Year of the Fire Horse signals a period of change, fresh opportunities, personal growth, and a faster pace of life, the Lunar New Year serves as a gentle reminder to pause, unite with family, bid farewell to the old year, welcome prosperity in the new year, and, of course, make room for indulging in festive delights.
