GUNG HAY FAT CHOY *

The Chinese New Year is a mere breath or two away from our doorstep, come January 31st. Always a celebration of excitement, parades, well wishes and special foods. A two week event that turns away from the past, while eagerly looking toward bright tomorrows. New promises of exciting horizons and hidden surprises.

To keep all you foodies in the know .    .    . I have done my research, and here are some VERY  important tidbits .   .   . tidbits that will keep you light years ahead of some of your fellow foodies .    .    .

“Lucky Foods” .   .   . yup .    .    . you read it right .   .    .  these “lucky foods”  are easy to come by, and not unusual items .   .   . BUT .    .    . here’s the kicker.   .   . each food I name has a special meaning attached and should be considered most important to starting the New Year off on the right foot… so to speak!

OK here’s my list .   .    . lettuce, rising fortune …mm hmmmmm … do I have your attention now? Tangerines, oranges, egg rolls, black moss seaweed … luck, and wealth. Pomelos (citrus fruit, similar, but a larger grapefruit, from SE Asia)… signifies abundance. Noodles, and peanuts are considered symbols for a long life, while eggs are a sign of fertility. Traditionally a cooked whole fish is served as the last of the main courses and portends prosperity. For desert lychee nuts, close family ties.   Whether you choose to throw a Chinese New Year’s bash at home, or partake in a local restaurant .    .    . you now have been armed with vital information to rival most foodies you invite to your table!

A Chinese New Year’s table setting coming next week .    .    .

*Gung hay fat choy is Cantonese for ‘may you become prosperous’, and is generally used during the New Year.

Sharon Insul is the former owner of the popular Beverly Hills boutique Candle light and…