Rachael Rayner

The China Kitchen Rachael Rayner

Every year, Chinese New Year falls on February 5th, and in 2019 it's time to celebrate the Year of the Pig. The pig is twelfth of the zodiac animals because according to myth, he arrived last to the Jade Emperor's party. Arriving before him came a rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, and dog. Pigs are said to have beautiful personalities, be blessed with good fortune, and are a symbol of wealth. A Chinese New Year's dinner is an important family feast. It's the time when all the family reunites and is an important event in the Chinese calendar. So important in fact, that if a member of the family can't return home, then their place at the table is left empty, along with a complete a set of utensils. According to legend, the Spring Festival originates from a time when the monster, Nian, terrorized the villages. The villagers would seek refuge in their homes, and hoping for the best, prepare a feast with offerings to their ancestors and the gods. Spring is also a time that brings about new beginnings and the Chinese New Year is cause for celebration throughout the world. To honor this period of family feasting the China Kitchen brings together a collection of 40 recipes to ring in Chinese New Year. Kung Hei Fat Choi!