14 Irresistible Appetizers to Celebrate Chinese New Year in Style

Chinese New Year is such a vibrant and meaningful celebration, filled with traditions that bring families together and welcome a fresh start. At the heart of it all is the food – carefully chosen dishes that symbolize good fortune, prosperity, and happiness for the year ahead. Appetizers play an important role in setting the tone for the feast, offering a variety of flavors and textures to excite the palate.

When planning a Chinese New Year menu, appetizers are a great way to showcase both tradition and creativity. Classics like crispy spring rolls, which symbolize wealth, and plump dumplings, shaped like ancient gold ingots, add a festive touch to any table. They’re perfect for sharing, allowing guests to sample a little bit of everything and enjoy the rich flavors that make this cuisine so special.

In this post, I’m sharing 14 delicious Chinese New Year appetizers that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a family reunion or simply enjoying a small gathering with friends, these dishes will add a flavorful and symbolic touch to your celebration. Let’s explore these mouthwatering appetizers and start the festivities with a taste of tradition and joy! You can find many of the ingredients used in these Chinese New Year appetisers – including tofu, soy sauce and sesame seeds – at MoruEats, your online Asian supermarket for authentic Asian groceries in the UK.

1. Spring Rolls (Chun Juan)

Spring rolls are a traditional Chinese appetizer that symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Their golden, crispy exterior and flavorful filling make them a festive favorite during Chinese New Year celebrations.

Servings: 12 spring rolls

Ingredients:

• 12 spring roll wrappers
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, mushrooms, and green onions. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3. Add soy sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
4. Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon 2 tablespoons of filling onto the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Seal the edge with a little water.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

2. Steamed Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Steamed dumplings are a staple during Chinese New Year, symbolizing wealth due to their resemblance to ancient Chinese gold ingots. They are filled with a savory mixture of meat and vegetables, making them a delightful appetizer.

Servings: 24 dumplings

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup ground pork (or chicken)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour and water to form a dough. Knead until smooth, then cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll the dough into a log and cut into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 3 inches in diameter.
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal.
5. Arrange the dumplings in a steamer lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes.
6. Serve hot with soy sauce or vinegar for dipping.

3. Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing)

Scallion pancakes are flaky, savory pancakes that are easy to make and incredibly delicious. They are often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for their layered texture, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

Servings: 4 pancakes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour and boiling water. Stir until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle on a floured surface.
3. Brush each circle with oil, sprinkle with salt, and evenly distribute the chopped scallions.
4. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then coil it into a round shape. Flatten gently with your hand.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook each pancake for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Cut into wedges and serve warm with soy sauce for dipping.

4. Lion’s Head Meatballs (Shizi Tou)

Lion’s Head Meatballs are a traditional dish from Jiangsu province, symbolizing strength and family unity. These tender meatballs are typically served with a flavorful broth and are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground pork
• 1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup bok choy or napa cabbage, cut into pieces

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine ground pork, water chestnuts, green onions, ginger, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Form the mixture into large meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Gently add the meatballs and simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Add the bok choy or napa cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are tender.
5. Serve the meatballs in bowls with broth, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

5. Crispy Tofu Bites

Crispy Tofu Bites are a delightful vegetarian option that brings a satisfying crunch to your appetizer spread. They are easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them perfect for any palate.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 14 ounces firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• Soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the tofu cubes in the mixture until coated evenly.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tofu cubes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
4. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

6. Twice-Cooked Spicy Eggplant (Shui Zhu Qie Zi)

Twice-cooked spicy eggplant is a flavorful dish that features tender eggplant stir-fried with a spicy sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also represents abundance and fertility, making it a fitting choice for Chinese New Year celebrations.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound eggplant, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons doubanjiang (spicy bean paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot of boiling water, blanch the eggplant strips for about 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Stir in doubanjiang and cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
4. Add the blanched eggplant and bell peppers (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the eggplant is tender.
5. Add soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, tossing everything together until well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

7. Egg Tarts (Dan Tart)

Egg tarts are a popular pastry in Chinese cuisine, especially in dim sum restaurants. Their smooth, creamy custard filling and flaky crust symbolize wealth and prosperity, making them a delightful treat for the New Year.

Servings: 12 tarts

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar. Add softened butter and egg yolk, and mix until crumbly. Add cold water and knead into a dough. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Press them into a muffin tin to form tart shells.
4. In a saucepan, heat milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla. Gradually add the milk mixture while whisking.
6. Pour the custard into the tart shells and bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and lightly browned.
7. Let cool before serving.

8. Sesame Balls (Jian Dui)

Sesame balls are a traditional Chinese dessert that can also be served as an appetizer. These deep-fried treats are filled with sweet red bean paste and coated in sesame seeds, symbolizing good luck and happiness.

Servings: 12 sesame balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup red bean paste
• Sesame seeds for coating
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and place a small amount of red bean paste in the center. Seal and roll into a ball.
3. Roll each ball in sesame seeds to coat evenly.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the sesame balls in batches until golden brown and floating, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

9. Chili Garlic Edamame

Chili garlic edamame is a spicy and flavorful appetizer that is simple to prepare. Edamame is a popular snack in Chinese cuisine, and the addition of chili and garlic gives it an extra kick, making it a great start to any meal.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 cups edamame in pods (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. If using frozen edamame, cook according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cooked edamame to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the edamame.

10. Braised Shiitake Mushrooms

Braised shiitake mushrooms are a flavorful and umami-rich dish that symbolizes longevity and good fortune. They are often served during festive occasions and make a great vegetarian option for your appetizer spread.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 12 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 30 minutes until rehydrated. Drain and slice.
2. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vegetable broth, sugar, and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the mushrooms and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

11. Chinese Chive Pancakes (Jiu Cai Bing)

Chinese chive pancakes are savory, flaky pancakes filled with fragrant chives. They are a popular street food and are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer during celebrations, symbolizing wealth and good fortune.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup boiling water
• 1 cup Chinese chives, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine flour and boiling water. Stir until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin circle.
3. Sprinkle chopped chives and salt evenly over each circle. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then coil it into a round shape. Flatten gently.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each pancake until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
5. Cut into wedges and serve warm with soy sauce or vinegar for dipping.

12. Sweet and Sour Lotus Root

Sweet and sour lotus root is a vibrant and colorful dish that combines the crunchiness of lotus root with a tangy sauce. It’s a refreshing appetizer that symbolizes harmony and balance, perfect for celebrating the New Year.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 medium lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Oil for frying
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the lotus root slices until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Drain on paper towels and place in a serving dish. Drizzle the sweet and sour sauce over the fried lotus root.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve warm.

13. Spicy Garlic Green Beans

Spicy garlic green beans are a popular dish that combines the crunch of fresh green beans with a spicy garlic sauce. This vibrant appetizer represents vitality and health, making it a fitting addition to your New Year feast.

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, then stir in soy sauce, chili oil, sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through and slightly blistered.
5. Serve warm as a spicy appetizer.

14. Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai (Shumai)

Siu Mai are open-topped dumplings filled with a mixture of pork and shrimp, often served at dim sum. They are a favorite during celebrations and symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their shape resembling gold ingots.

Servings: 24 siu mai

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ground pork
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 package wonton wrappers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix ground pork, chopped shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about a tablespoon of the filling into the center. Gather the edges of the wrapper and pinch to form an open-top dumpling.
3. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Arrange the siu mai in a steamer lined with parchment paper. Steam over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.

I hope these 14 Chinese New Year appetizers inspire you to create a festive and flavorful spread for your celebration. Each dish brings its own unique charm, from the symbolic meanings tied to tradition to the irresistible flavors that bring people together. Whether you stick with the classics or add your own creative twists, these appetizers are sure to impress your guests and set the tone for a joyous New Year feast. Here’s to welcoming a year filled with happiness, prosperity, and plenty of delicious food!