For the Chinese, three vegetables symbolize wealth, longevity, good fortune, and family reunion at the New Year’s feast: lettuce, bok choy, and Chinese broccoli. Not only do these three vegetables provide numerous nutrients, but they also represent wealth, longevity, good fortune, and family togetherness during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Lettuce – A Symbol of Wealth
Stir-fried lettuce is delicious and perfect for New Year’s Day.
In China, lettuce is chosen as a food to kick off the New Year because the green color of the leaves sounds like the word for “wealth” in both Mandarin and Cantonese. However, not all types of raw vegetables are favored at the New Year’s meal.
The New York Times explains that when the green color is cooked, it also symbolizes good fortune. Stir-fried lettuce can serve as an appetizer with scrambled eggs, minced garlic, and rice. Another simple dish you can enjoy is seasoned lettuce with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
Stir-fried lettuce has a delightful flavor. According to the culinary website The Woks of Life, the taste of lettuce is very refreshing. Additionally, when stir-fried, lettuce retains high water content and remains crispy.
Bok Choy Symbolizes Wealth and Longevity
Bok choy eaten whole signifies longevity. (Photo: The Spruce Eats).
In addition to its health benefits, bok choy also symbolizes wealth and good fortune. This makes it an important part of the dining table during the Lunar New Year. In traditional Chinese cuisine, bok choy represents longevity with an emphasis on the long life of parents and elders.
According to Today, eating whole bok choy holds special significance wishing for the longevity of parents. You can consume the entire bok choy, from the green leaves to the stalks, as most parts are edible. Whether stir-frying bok choy or preparing it as a side dish, this vegetable is very tasty. A simple bok choy stir-fry recipe includes minced garlic, fresh ginger, sesame oil, and oyster sauce with sesame seeds.
Chinese Broccoli Symbolizes Harmony
Chinese broccoli is an integral part of the Lunar New Year meal if you aim to improve relationships. This is because Chinese broccoli symbolizes balance in relationships.
Chinese broccoli shares many similarities with Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. It has leaves similar to kale while the thick stalk resembles broccoli more. When eating Chinese broccoli, you’ll notice the stalk is slightly sweet while the leaves have a slightly bitter taste. This vegetable is often found in stir-fries, dumplings, and fresh salads.
One of the best ways to prepare Chinese broccoli is to stir-fry it with garlic, chili, and oyster sauce. Stir-fried Chinese broccoli is commonly found in both upscale restaurants and home kitchens, making it a popular Chinese dish for many occasions beyond just the Lunar New Year. Simple stir-fried Chinese broccoli can also be served as a side dish with chicken or vegetable broth, sherry, oyster sauce, and brown sugar.
