You are what you eat this coming Lunar New Year
Gold Coast Chinese restaurants are about to roll out extravagant feasts to welcome the Year of the Dragon - and dumpling fans are in luck.
Hong Kong-born restaurateur and chef Stanley Lee, behind Mad Asian Kitchen &
Bar, Saiko Teppanyaki and new Honey Pepper Bar & Grill at Robina Town Centre, says what you eat during Lunar New Year may dictate the year ahead: “In Chinese culture, dumplings are seen as an exchange between the old and the new, so eating them is thought to send away anything associated with the past to welcome what possibilities await in the new,” Mr Lee said.
“There’s always plenty of dumplings on tables during Lunar New Year celebrations, but my favourite is the spicy prawn and pork gyoza served with plenty of chilli and drizzled in light soy sauce, and for vegetarians, my delicious vegetable gyoza are a great option too.”
Mr Lee said eggs were symbolic of a big and healthy family, while supping on seafood could set you up for a windfall.: “For surplus and wealth – fish is considered the dish to indulge in, either eaten raw as sashimi, seared on the teppanyaki grill or expertly steamed, grilled or fried.
“Roasted pork is said to bring peace, duck is considered the key to loyalty. Tofu is thought to imbue happiness and fortune for the whole family.”
Dragon dishes are also on offer at The Star Gold Coast, where Uncle Su will serve a special yum cha menu and Mei Wei Dumplings is cooking up hot chilli crab for two.
The Lunar New Year celebrations are on February 10 in Chinatown, Southport. Celebrations include a $5 food safari, market stalls, and lion and dragon dancers.