Celebrate the Lunar New Year
It’s the Year of the Rabbit, and for this celebration it’s all about food and tradition. I’ve gathered my favorite recipes that are sure to bring everyone around the table—from my Mom’s take on the traditional Chinese New Year Cake, to a bright citrus salad with five spice honey (citrus is said to ward off bad luck), and my Grandma’s delectable Lion’s Head Meatballs, there’s sure to be something for everyone. And lest we forget, setting a gold and red (red symbolizes good fortune) festooned table is key—I’ll show you how to set the perfectly festive Lunar New Year table so the Year of the Rabbit starts off on the right foot! Gung hay fat choy!
What to EAT…
Citrus Salad with Five Spice Honey
Coconut Fish Chowder with Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas and Lime
Lion’s Head Meatballs
Roast Duck Jook
Anchovy Scallion Noodles
Roasted Garlic Noodles
Buddha's Delight
Orange Chiffon Cake
Tofu Fa
Mandarin Miso Crêpes Suzette
Mom’s Chinese New Year Cake | Nin Go
Sesame Rice Krispie Treats with Sweet Red Bean
Carbon Steel Flat-Bottom Wok
The Bap Bowl
Tio Brushed Gold Chopsticks
Tips for the HOST…
Make red and gold the dress code to ward off evil spirits, and for a touch of glam. Save black and white attire for another occasion!
Fill those red envelopes with crisp, new bills before giving them to your guests as a symbol of luck and good wishes for the new year.
Display citrus on your table, especially tangerines and mandarins as they are believed to bring good luck and fortune.
For some fun table talk, ask your guests if they know which animal zodiac year they were born in and what 2022’s is. (Answer: Year of the Rabbit!)
By Japan + Beams Japan + Akimura Taiheido Checked Paper Lantern
Soho Home Marlton Brushed Gold-Tone Candle Holders
Herbiflora Teaspoon Set
How to DECORATE…
Use the customary gold and red with touches of deep blue for a table that’s festive, timeless and elegant.
Citrus are crucial for a Lunar New Year Table—they’re traditional and represent health and prosperity.
Candlelight is everything for creating the perfect mood, so dim those lights and light some candles.
New Moon Napkins
Red Henri Glass
Lunar Dipping Bowls
Select photos by Briana Balducci
