Lunar New Year

10^th February 2024

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, marks a significant cultural and traditional celebration in East Asian communities worldwide. Based on the lunar calendar, it typically falls between late January and mid-February. Festivities span 15 days, with the eve featuring a reunion dinner symbolizing family unity. The vibrant celebration includes dragon and lion dances, firecrackers, and the giving of red envelopes (ang pao) symbolizing good luck. Houses are adorned with red decorations, symbolizing prosperity, and warding off evil spirits. Traditional foods like dumplings and nian gao (rice cakes) are enjoyed. The Lunar New Year signifies a fresh start, with each year associated with a zodiac animal. Families come together to honour ancestors, reinforcing cultural bonds, and passing down cherished customs to future generations.

Traditional Lunar New Year Dumplings (Jiaozi) Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Dumpling Filling:

• 1 cup ground pork
• 1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Pinch of white pepper

For the Dumpling Wrappers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup water

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the dumpling filling ingredients. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

2. For the dumpling wrappers, gradually add water to the flour while stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Roll out the dough into a long cylinder and cut it into small pieces. Roll each piece into a thin, round wrapper.

4. Place a spoonful of filling in the centre of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with water and fold the wrapper in half, sealing the edges tightly to form a crescent shape.

5. Pleat the edges for an intricate design or press the edges with a fork for a simple seal.

6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook until they float to the surface, then continue boiling for an additional 2-3 minutes.

7. Serve the dumplings hot with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil.

These traditional Lunar New Year dumplings symbolize wealth and good fortune, making them a delicious and culturally significant dish enjoyed during the festive season.

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