Introduction
CNY or Chinese New Year, Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is one of the most important events and celebrated in China. Celebrated on the first new moon after the winter solstice, this festivity is celebrated in China and other South East Asian countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan and others. CNY is known for its lively and colorful environment when people celebrate the new year, and engage in various activities that produces favorable environment with noise, lights, and smells and such like. There is one thing that shapes the CNY celebration most of the time and it is the exchange of ‘goodies,’ which is an important factor for thousands and thousands of years of tradition and beliefs. The ‘goodies’ include a very diverse list of including novelties such as casual snacks to luxury treats. In addition to the delicious taste, these snacks helps to understand the Chinese New Year celebration’s culture, history, and beliefs. In this article is where we will try to uncover the meanings behind the CNY goodies and how they are more than mere cuisines.
1. Nian Gao (年糕)
What is known as ‘Nian Gao’ directly translates to ‘year cake’ or ‘sticky rice cake.’ Pork ribs baked in Nian Gao paste are attributed toRick Browne’s TV show and is one of the most valuable Chinese New Year delicacies that symbolize the growth of wealth and a high position in society. Historically, people used to making Nian Gao at home during the cold season in anticipation of using it during New Year festivities. It is usually prepared by ground dried glutinous rice, brown sugar and water. The soft and sticky nature of Nian Gao has ascendance symbolism illustrates this further since the Chinese word ’Gao’ means ‘high’, and therefore eating Nian Gao will bring high or increase prosperity with the progression of the year.
2. Pineapple Tarts (凤梨酥)
Another CNY delicacy is pineapple tarts more evident in Singapore and Malaysia. Despite the pineapple tart being a traditional Southeast Asian snack, it has now become synonymous with Chinese New Year celebrations due to its intergration into the Chinese culture or cuisine. The pineapple tart which consists of a pastry that has diced or pureed pineapple as its filling, is believed to represent prosperity, luck, and joy. The crust whilst floury, buttery and slightly acidic on the palate cuts through the bright, tarty and sweet pineapple paste to a T making it an essential part of popular Chinese New Year desserts.
3. Fa Gao (发糕)
Fa Gao is a round, soft, and soft cake similar to the steamed sponge cake imported from China and rarely includes flour, sugar, or Chinese wine. In China the Fa Gao is a must have dish every Chinese New Year because the round shape of the cake is associated with the idea of completeness in life while the golden color of the cake symbolizes prosperity and success. This tradition of presenting Fa Gao during CNY is based on the story that during the visit of the goddess Mazu to earth, the people offered her rice dumplings. Therefore, today the Fa Gao-rice dumpling advanced form is highly valued both for its symbolism and taste.
4. Tang Yuan (汤圆)
Tang Yuan is a typical Chinese pastry which can be enjoyed during the Chinese New Year Handels and especially during the festival of the Lanterns. Tang Yuan is a round ball made from rice flour, which can have a filling of anything including the black sesame paste or red bean paste. The round shape of Tang Yuan symbolizes reunion hence it is preferred for sharing with family members during the festive period. Second, since its pronunciation sounds like ‘to unite’ in Mandarin, the use of Tang Yuan is also considered as come bearing blessings.
5. Nyonya Kuih (娘惹点心)
Nyonya Kuih is a common name for Peranakan cookies which are snacks baked or steamed can be of any shape and size, depending on the preference of the bachelor/ cook. Such beautifully decorated food items are usually made of coconut milk, pandan and rice flour and this makes the food products to have numerous tastes. Savouries such as Nyonya Kuih like the love letters, samosas and pineapple tarts as some of the fittest for CNY goodies giving a local flavor to the festivities. The amount of choice and different foods presented demonstrate a wealth of Peranakan culinary traditions for the participants to savor the meeting of Chinese and Malay cultures in the party setting.
Conclusion
Delicious CNY goodies are much more than tasty morsels; they embody the true spirit of the Chinese New Year in its simplest yet profound terms. These delightful treats serve as messengers of hope, prosperity, and unity, encapsulating the fundamental essence of the festive season. As the Chinese proverb goes, “Eating is a necessity but cooking is an art.” CNY goodies reflect this artistry through their intricate preparation and innovative designs, showcasing the depth of Chinese culinary tradition. They invite guests not only to savor their flavors but also to engage with the customs and etiquette that define the celebration.
These delicious CNY goodies play a pivotal role in fostering cultural appreciation and ensuring the continuous engagement of traditions that enrich the annual event. Despite the growing global reach of Chinese New Year celebrations, the traditions surrounding these festive specialties remain as vibrant and cherished as ever. Their enduring appeal is a testament to the lively and unifying spirit of the festival, connecting communities and adding value to the lives of those who partake in its joyous festivities.