Lunar New Year is one of the most significant celebrations in Asian culture. It is celebrated across China, Vietnam, and Korea, with food playing a central role in the holiday. The right food serves to usher in prosperity, good luck, and family togetherness. International Fresh Market, a top Asian grocery store, has everything you need to prepare traditional Lunar New Year dishes from the comfort of your home.
The Staples of Lunar New Year Feasts
There are certain key ingredients that have special significance in Lunar New Year feasts. Rice and noodles, staples in Asian cuisine, represent longevity and sustenance. Rice and noodles form the basis of most savory meals, while dumpling wrappers are associated with wealth, due to their resemblance to gold ingots.
Sauces, like soy sauce and oyster sauce, are essential for flavoring any festive dish. Keep these on hand for seasoning as you go. Sticky rice and rice flour are common dessert ingredients, often used in sweet treats like rice cakes and dumplings. All of these ingredients and many more are available in the Asian section at International Fresh Market.
Proteins That Symbolize Abundance and Prosperity
The protein you use in your Lunar New Year feast can help represent a specific hope for the months ahead. Fish represents surplus and abundance, and is often served whole, either baked, grilled, or steamed. You can buy fresh fish from the local Asian grocery store or pick up some frozen options for ultimate convenience.
Chicken is a versatile protein that symbolizes family unity. It is often served whole in Lunar New Year celebrations, but can also be incorporated into other dishes, either chopped into pieces or shredded. To keep things simple, consider buying a marinated or pre-seasoned chicken that can be cooked and served quickly.
Pork and beef are also popular protein options in Asian cuisine. They can be used as filling for dumplings and spring rolls, or as an inclusion in hot pots. Your local Asian grocery store will have options including sliced or ground beef and pork, both convenient for all your Lunar New Year recipes.
If any of your guests are vegetarian, you’ll want to have some options for them on hand. Even if your primary entree contains meat, be sure to prep some simple sides to accommodate their preferences. A salad, full of fresh chopped veggies, is a great choice.
Essential Produce and Fresh Herbs
Every traditional Lunar New Year celebration features a selection of fresh vegetables and herbs. A few must-haves include bok choy, Napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, daikon radish, and lotus root. These bright, fresh favorites are perfect for including in stir-fries, soups, and hot posts.
Aromatic herbs can add a finishing touch to any Asian-inspired dish. Green onions are versatile and vibrant, while ginger and garlic are essentials in any stir fry. Cilantro is the ideal garnish for any soup or noodle-based dish. To keep your produce fresh, buy it as close as possible to your event date, or a day or two before you plan on making your feast. Wash produce thoroughly and store it in the refrigerator before use.
Traditional Asian Seasonings and Condiments
There are a variety of traditional Asian seasonings and condiments that can enhance and elevate your Lunar New Year feast. Soy sauce is probably the best-known Asian sauce. Light soy sauce is thinner and saltier. It is more commonly used in cooking and for dipping, while dark soy sauce is often used as a marinade or glaze. Black vinegar is another popular dipping sauce, often served alongside dumplings and noodle stir-fries.
Savory oyster sauce and hoisin sauces are perfect for marinades as well as for inclusion in stir-fries. Fermented pastes, like gochujang, miso, and doubanjiang, are great for adding depth of flavor to any entree. A little goes a long way so use these sparingly and taste as you go. International Fresh Market has a variety of top Asian grocery brands. If you have questions about a specific brand or item, ask one of our friendly associates.
Sweet Ingredients for Festive Desserts
If you’re making a dessert for Lunar New Year, you’ll need the right supplies. Sticky rice and glutinous rice flour are used in mochi, sticky rice cakes, and tangyuan, while red bean paste and mung bean paste are for filling festive desserts like bao and pastries. Palm sugar and rock sugar are both excellent sweeteners for various desserts and candies.
If you’re making a snack tray or charcuterie board, pick up some dried fruits and seeds for light snacking that will satisfy any sweet tooth. For a traditional end to your Lunar New Year feast, serve jasmine or oolong tea with the dessert course.
Bonus: Lucky Snacks and Drinks
Add a fun element to your celebration with some ready-made snacks and drinks. International Fresh Market has many grab and go options to elevate your party, including packaged mooncakes, fortune cookies, and nian gao. You can place these strategically around the table for guests to grab, or create charming gift boxes to share with friends and family. Don’t forget to wrap each box with a pretty ribbon for a thoughtful touch.
There are also easy and traditional beverage options such as jasmine tea, plum wine, and sweet Asian sodas. These can be chilled and served throughout the party or as an accompaniment to the prepared food
Visit Your Local Asian Grocery Store for Lunar New Year Essentials
Lunar New Year is a bright, bold celebration all about embracing new beginnings. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or planning a small event with your closest friends and family, the right food can help make the party that much more enjoyable and memorable. For all the authentic, high-quality ingredients you need this Lunar New Year, International Fresh Market is here to help. We carry all the Asian grocery ingredients you need to craft delicious meals. Check out additional recipe ideas on our blog or visit us in-store to ask any questions you might have about how to plan the perfect Lunar New Year celebration.
