Chinese New Year Celebrating the Year of the SHEEP
Dec 18, 2015
Chinese New Year
Celebrating the Year of the SHEEP
Dumpling
The shape of “jiaozi” is like that of a yuanbao. Yuanbao was an ancient
Chinese currency. Since the shape of Chinese dumplings is similar to ancient
Chinese gold or silver ingots, they symbolize wealth. Chinese believe that
the shape is auspicious.
How to make dumpling
Sticky Rice Ball
After the reunion dinner on the new year eve, “tang yuan” is a must have dessert for every family. It is symbolic
of a “sweet reunion”.
The roundness of the rice balls signify a complete circle of harmony and unity
within the family. As “tang yuan” is round and smooth with a sweet filling, it also symbolizes that everything will
go smoothly in the New Year.
Peanuts in the shell.Peanuts are known to signify long
life.
Tangerine
“Tangerines” in Chinese language sound similar to the word “luck”.
The bright orange color of the fruits also symbolize 'gold'; hence it has an auspicious meaning to bring in
good luck and wealth.
Fish
The symbolic meanings of 'fish' throughout Chinese tradition are endless. The identical sound of the words 'fish' (yú) 鱼 and the word 余 (yú), meaning 'extra’ or 'surplus’, have made fish an indispensable component in the Chinese New Year's dinner celebration.
“ 年 年 有 余 ” - 'May you have surplus and remainders year after year' is a common blessing expressed during the Chinese New Year celebration.
HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR of the SHEEP