Celebrated across much of Asia, Chinese New Year is a time for bustling streets, festive traditions, and most importantly, lavish feasts. Falling between late January and February, it’s a celebration of family, good fortune and new beginnings.Amid the vibrant red lanterns, crackling firecrackers and array of auspicious decorations, food takes centre stage. 

Families gather around dining tables filled with symbolic dishes, crafted to bring prosperity, health and happiness for the year ahead. If you’re ready to host your own Chinese New Year feast or simply want to add traditional dishes to your repertoire, check out these eight classics that are as meaningful as they are delicious.

1. Jiaozi (Dumplings)

Originating from northern China, jiaozi dumplings are a must-have during Chinese New Year celebrations. Families come together to craft these morsels, each filled with a personalised blend of ingredients. Traditionally, jiaozi are made with:

• Ground Pork: known for its savoury richness, it’s often paired with shrimp, ginger and white pepper for added depth
• Vegetarian Variants: it can include finely chopped leeks, shiitake mushrooms and five-spice tofu for a lighter option

These dumplings symbolise wealth with their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots. Whether boiled, steamed, or pan-fried, they’re best served piping hot, dipped in dark Zhenjiang vinegar or a smoky chilli-laced vinegar. Leftovers? Freeze them for an easy yet comforting meal during the festivities.

2. Dayu Darou (Whole Fish and Meat)

Known as “big fish and big meat,” these centrepieces are staples for Lunar New Year feasts. The whole fish represents abundance, stemming from the homophone "yu," which means both "fish" and "surplus." Regional styles vary:

• Guangdong Style: Simply steamed fish topped with ginger, spring onions, and soy
• Hangzhou Style: Vinegar-laden West Lake fish for a sweet and tangy kick
• Suzhou Squirrelfish: Delightfully crispy, served with a sweet-sour sauce that bursts with flavour

Whether cured meats like pork sausages (la rou) or air-dried ducks, these traditional proteins evoke the spirit of gratitude and celebration, harking back to ancient sacrificial ceremonies.

3. Chun Juan (Spring Rolls)

Golden and crispy, spring rolls are not just delicious - they’re symbols of prosperity resembling bars of gold. Wrapped in thin wheat-based pastry, fillings include tender carrots, cabbage, shiitake mushrooms and pork, seasoned with oyster sauce and ginger. While deep-fried rolls are popular for their crunch, soft pancake-style versions also allow for custom assembly. Either way, these morsels shine as a snack or appetiser.

4. Changshou Mian (Longevity Noodles)

These lengthy noodles are a hallmark of long life and good health. Key to their symbolism? They mustn’t be cut! Whether served stir-fried with shiitake mushrooms and bok choy or in a savoury soy-based broth, their impressive length and satisfying chew make them a satisfying addition to any New Year's spread.

5. Good Fortune Fruit

Oranges, tangerines, kumquats and pomelos are more than refreshing - they’re gifts of good fortune. With their glowing golden hue and round shape, they symbolise prosperity and unity. Kumquats are enjoyed whole for their sweet and tangy profile, while pomelos, though requiring some effort to peel, reward you with their juicy, grapefruit-like segments. These fruits can be given as decorative gifts or used to close a meal on a high note.

6. Babao Fan (Eight Treasures Rice)

Studded with fruits, nuts, and drenched in sweet syrup, this vibrant sticky-rice dessert is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The name refers to the "eight treasures" often included, like:

• Lotus seeds
• Candied fruits
• Almond kernels
• Dried longans
• Red bean paste

Skilful layering creates a mosaic of colours and textures, making Babao Fan the perfect dish for celebrating good fortune and artistic flair.

7. Tang Yuan (Glutinous Rice Balls in Sweet Syrup)

Traditionally served during the Lantern Festival but enjoyed throughout New Year celebrations, tang yuan signifies reunion and togetherness. These chewy rice balls are often filled with black sesame paste and served in a warm, sweet broth flavoured with osmanthus blossoms or sweet fermented rice. Comforting and indulgent, they’re a favourite during chilly winter nights.

Choose School of Wok for Authentic Asian Cooking Courses in London

If you’re eager to recreate these authentic flavours at home, consider brushing up on your Asian cookery skills. The School of Wok, based in London, offers hands-on courses designed to teach traditional techniques and recipes. It’s the perfect way to bring the celebration to life.

Celebrate with Tradition and Taste

From savoury dumplings to sweet, sticky desserts, these dishes bring rich history and symbolism to the Chinese New Year table. Whether you’re hosting a feast for friends and family or simply looking to explore Asian cuisine, these recipes are sure to bring joy, flavour and good fortune to your celebration. Why not start your culinary adventure today? 

Master the art of Asian cuisine with the School of Wok and make your Chinese New Year one to remember. If you want to elevate your knowledge of Asian cuisine, as well as fine-tune your culinary skills, then get in touch with us to book your place on one of our many Asian cooking courses in London. Give us a call on 0736 526 6695, or email us via [email protected].