Chinese Christmas Food Traditions
Christmas is a holiday celebrated in many countries around the world, and each country has its own unique traditions and customs. In China, while only a small percentage of the population celebrates Christmas, it has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai. In this post, we will explore the Chinese Christmas food traditions and the dishes that are commonly served during the holiday season.
The History of Christmas in China
Christianity is not a mainstream religion in China, and the country has its own New Year celebrations, which fall in late January or early February according to the lunar calendar. However, Christmas has become increasingly popular in China, especially among young people. It is not a public holiday, but many businesses and schools close early on Christmas Eve, and many people celebrate by going out to eat or party with friends.
The Traditional Chinese Christmas Meal
The traditional Chinese Christmas meal is a fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine. Many families will cook a big meal at home, while others will go out to restaurants that offer special Christmas menus. The most popular dishes include:
Roast Duck or Roast Pork
Roast duck or roast pork is a popular Christmas dish in China. The meat is seasoned with Chinese spices and roasted until it is crispy and golden brown. It is often served with plum sauce or hoisin sauce and a side of steamed vegetables.
Hot Pot
Hot pot is a popular Chinese dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It is a pot of boiling broth that is used to cook meats and vegetables at the table. The broth is infused with spices like Sichuan peppercorns and star anise, giving it a delicious flavor. Hot pot is usually accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces.
Dumplings
Dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine, and they are often served during the holiday season. They are traditionally made by hand, with a filling of pork, beef or vegetables, and then steamed or boiled. Dumplings are a symbol of good luck and prosperity, and many families will make them together as part of their Christmas celebration.
Noodles
Noodles are another popular Chinese dish that is often served during Christmas. Long noodles symbolize longevity in Chinese culture, so they are considered lucky to eat during the holiday season. They can be stir-fried with vegetables and meat or served in a soup with dumplings and vegetables.
Conclusion
While Christmas is not traditionally celebrated in China, it has become a popular holiday in recent years, especially among young people. The Chinese Christmas meal is a unique fusion of Western and Chinese cuisine, and it often includes roast meat, hot pot, dumplings, and noodles. If you are ever in China during the holiday season, be sure to try some of these delicious dishes!