Lunar New Year is coming up on February 12, 2021, and I’m already thinking about how our family will celebrate it.
Normally we get together with my parents and Popo (grandmother). But because of Covid, we won’t be doing that. Like so much of this past year, every celebration and communal tradition during the pandemic is a disappointing version of the real thing. But that’s what we’re all doing. Instead of the rituals of giving red envelopes with money, making copious amounts of food, and going to Chinatown to watch the lion dances, we’ll do a simpler celebratory meal with our family of 6.
Here’s what I’m thinking of making:
- Wonton or Jiaozi Dumplings
- Long Life Noodles
- Szechuan Eggplant
- Char Siu
- Almond Float
- Chinese Pretzels
I can’t imagine Lunar New Year without traditional Chinese food like noodles and dumplings. Some of these dishes I grew up eating, and others I’ve picked up along the way once I began cooking more. Wonton in particular is fun to make with the whole family. Everyone in the family (minus the baby) helps with the chopping, mixing, and wrapping.
As we eat, we’ll remember and honor our family and ancestors, and look ahead to the Year of the Ox.
For those who celebrate Lunar New Year, I’d love to hear what you usually do to celebrate, and how you plan to celebrate this year. Please share in the comments!
If you’re looking for more Chinese recipes, here are a few favorites from my archives:
The Larissa Monologues 