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by The Team
The Lunar New Year is a time of celebration, family, and, of course, food. Every dish served during this festive season carries a special meaning, from wealth and abundance to happiness and longevity. While many think of dumplings, rice cakes, and sweet treats, seafood and meat play a central role in bringing luck and prosperity to the table.
In this blog, we explore the most symbolic seafood and meat dishes for Lunar New Year and why they are considered lucky.
Seafood is a staple in Lunar New Year celebrations, especially in Chinese culture, because of its symbolism: abundance, wealth, and good fortune. Here are some must-have seafood dishes:
Serving a whole fish, such as snapper, sea bass, or pomfret, is traditional during Lunar New Year. The word for “fish” in Chinese, yú, sounds like “surplus” or “abundance.” Eating a whole fish symbolises having more than enough in the coming year.
Tip: Serve the fish whole with the head and tail intact for maximum luck.
Prawns are a favourite because their reddish-pink shells represent happiness and celebration, while the way they bend naturally reminds people of smiling faces. Dishes like garlic butter prawns or prawn stir-fry are perfect for festive tables.
Lobsters and crabs are luxurious seafood choices that symbolise strength, success, and wealth. Their bright red shells are especially auspicious, making them a beautiful and meaningful centerpiece.
Abalone and scallops are considered premium seafood, representing wealth and longevity. Steamed or baked with garlic and butter, these delicacies elevate any Lunar New Year feast.
Meat dishes are equally symbolic and often appear alongside seafood on the Lunar New Year table.
A whole chicken signifies family unity and togetherness. Traditionally, it is served poached or braised, often with Chinese herbs, symbolizing completeness and prosperity.
Pork, especially pork belly or roast pork, represents abundance and good fortune. Its rich, hearty flavor mirrors the wealth and indulgence families hope for in the new year.
Beef dishes, like braised beef or stir-fried sirloin, symbolise strength, determination, and resilience, qualities that are ideal for starting a new year.
Serve whole seafood and meat whenever possible – head and tail intact.
Red and gold decorations on the table amplify luck and prosperity.
Include a variety of seafood and meat to symbolise abundance and strength in all areas of life.
Pair dishes with meaningful sides, such as glutinous rice cakes for growth and longevity noodles for long life.
At Manettas, we make it easy to celebrate with fresh, premium seafood and meat delivered straight to your door. From whole snapper, prawns, and lobster to succulent pork belly and premium beef cuts, we have everything you need to create a lucky and delicious Lunar New Year feast.
Order now to secure the freshest ingredients for your celebration and bring abundance, wealth, and happiness to your Lunar New Year table!
