17 Chinese New Year Fa Gao Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 5, 2024
Chinese New Year is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and most importantly, delicious food. One of the traditional dishes served during this festive season is fa gao, also known as prosperity cakes. These steamed cakes are not only delicious, but they also hold a significant cultural meaning. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and significance of fa gao and provide you with a simple and authentic Chinese New Year fa gao recipe to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice Flour, Milk, Eggs, Vegetable Oil, Brown
Start off your Chinese New Year celebration with these adorable Nian Gao cupcakes. These mini-cakes are made with sticky rice flour and topped with a sweet red bean paste, making them a delicious and festive treat for the holiday.
2of 40
Chinese New Year Long Life Noodles
Main Ingredients: Oyster Sauce, Sesame Oil, Chinese Rice Wine, Ginger
In Chinese culture, noodles symbolize longevity and are often served during the New Year for good luck. This recipe for Long Life Noodles is not only delicious, but it's also quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy holiday gathering.
3of 40
Chinese Fa Gao (Fortune Cake)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Hot Water, Brown Sugar, Baking Powder
Also known as Fortune Cakes, these steamed cakes are a popular dish served during Chinese New Year. They are usually made with glutinous rice flour and have a slightly chewy texture, making them a unique and tasty addition to your holiday spread.
4of 40
Fa Gao (Fortune Cake) – Chinese Steamed Cakes
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, High Gluten Flour, Baking Powder, Sugar
If you're looking for a more traditional recipe for Fa Gao, this one is for you. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these steamed cakes are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, they are said to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year.
5of 40
How to make Chinese New Year Cake - Nin Gao
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice Flour, Rice Flour, Brown Sugar, Hot
This recipe for Nian Gao is perfect for those who want to make their own traditional Chinese New Year cake. Made with sticky rice flour, brown sugar, and water, this cake is easy to make and can be served as a dessert or a snack.
If you're a fan of Nian Gao, you'll love this recipe. This version of the traditional Chinese New Year cake is made with a combination of sweet rice flour and regular rice flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor. Serve it warm or cold for a delicious treat.
This recipe for Nian Gao is a little different than the others. It uses coconut milk and pandan leaves for a creamy and aromatic cake that is perfect for the holiday. Plus, it's gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
8of 40
Chinese New Year Sweet Rice Cake (Nian Gao)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Water, Ginger, Dark Brown Sugar
Another variation of the traditional Nian Gao, this recipe uses sweet rice flour, coconut milk, and red bean paste for a sweet and sticky cake that is sure to please. Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it as a snack throughout the holiday.
9of 40
Homemade Nian Gao (Chinese New Year Steamed Red Bean...
Main Ingredients: Sweetened Red Bean Paste, Glutinous Rice Flour, Warm
If you want to make your own Nian Gao from scratch, this recipe has got you covered. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cake is soft, chewy, and filled with a sweet red bean paste. It's the perfect addition to any Chinese New Year celebration.
10of 40
Longevity Noodles for Chinese New Year
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Toasted Sesame Oil, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Low
This recipe for longevity noodles is a classic dish served during Chinese New Year. The long noodles symbolize long life, and they are usually served with a variety of vegetables and meats for a delicious and hearty meal.
11of 40
Chinese New Year Chicken Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Jasmine Rice, Chicken, Garlic Cloves
This recipe for chicken fried rice is perfect for those who want a quick and easy dish for their Chinese New Year feast. Made with chicken, vegetables, and rice, this dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine and is always a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe for Chinese New Year Cake is a modern twist on the traditional Nian Gao. The addition of dark chocolate and sea salt gives it a delicious and unexpected flavor. Serve it as a dessert or a snack for a sweet and savory treat.
This dish is a must-have for any Chinese New Year celebration. Made with pork, shrimp, and vegetables, this dish is a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. Plus, it's easy to make and can be served as a main dish or a side.
This dish is a delicious and healthy option for your Chinese New Year feast. Made with chicken, vegetables, and rice, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, it's quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy holiday gathering.
15of 40
Chinese New Year Skillet
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Roast, Green Pepper, Pineapple Tidbits
If you're looking for a one-pot dish for your Chinese New Year celebration, this recipe is for you. Made with chicken, vegetables, and noodles, this flavorful and hearty dish is sure to be a hit with your guests.
16of 40
New Year Stew
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Smoked Ham Hocks, Cooked Ham, Water
This dish is a traditional Chinese New Year dish that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. Made with pork, seafood, and vegetables, this stew is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter's night.
17of 40
Easy Potsticker Dipping Sauce and Popular Chinese New...
No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without some delicious appetizers. This recipe for potsticker dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Chinese New Year appetizers, such as potstickers, dumplings, and egg rolls.
18of 40
General Tso's Chicken Chinese New Year Celebration
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Egg, Water, Flour, Black Pepper, Cayenne
This recipe for General Tso's Chicken is a popular dish served during Chinese New Year. Made with crispy chicken, vegetables, and a sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a must-have for your holiday feast.
19of 40
Vegetarian Ham (Chinese New Year)
Main Ingredients: Bean Curd, Soy Sauce, Tamari, Water, Sugar, Fennel
If you're looking for a vegetarian option for your Chinese New Year celebration, this recipe is for you. Made with seitan, this "ham" dish is a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional meat dishes and is perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
20of 40
Chinese New Year Cashew Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Onion, Baby
This recipe for cashew chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is perfect for your holiday feast. Tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a flavorful sauce make this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.
21of 40
Chinese New Year Cupcakes – Nian Gao
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice Flour, Milk, Eggs, Vegetable Oil, Brown
Start off your Chinese New Year celebrations with these delicious and festive cupcakes. Made with traditional Nian Gao, or Chinese New Year cake, these cupcakes are a modern twist on a classic treat.
With a soft and fluffy texture and a subtle sweetness, these cupcakes are perfect for serving at any Chinese New Year party or gathering. The addition of red bean paste adds a rich and creamy element, while the colorful sprinkles on top add a touch of fun.
Make these cupcakes even more special by topping them with a red and gold lucky coin symbol, representing good fortune and prosperity for the new year. These Chinese New Year cupcakes are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
22of 40
Chinese New Year Long Life Noodles
Main Ingredients: Oyster Sauce, Sesame Oil, Chinese Rice Wine, Ginger
Longevity noodles, also known as "long life noodles", are a staple dish in Chinese culture and are often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. These noodles symbolize a long and prosperous life, making them a fitting dish for the new year.
These noodles are typically made from wheat flour and are longer and thicker than regular noodles. They are usually stir-fried with vegetables and protein, such as chicken or pork, and seasoned with a savory sauce.
Serve these noodles at your Chinese New Year feast and wish your loved ones a long and prosperous life with each bite!
23of 40
Chinese Fa Gao (Fortune Cake)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Hot Water, Brown Sugar, Baking Powder
Fa Gao, or fortune cake, is a traditional Chinese steamed cake that is often made for Chinese New Year celebrations. These cakes are considered lucky because they are said to rise and split at the top, resembling a blooming flower, which symbolizes growth and prosperity.
The cake is made with simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, and yeast, and is often flavored with ingredients like red bean paste or dried fruits. They are typically steamed in small bowls or cups and can be served as a dessert or snack.
Make these cute and auspicious cakes for your Chinese New Year dinner and impress your guests with their symbolism and delicious taste.
24of 40
Fa Gao (Fortune Cake) – Chinese Steamed Cakes
Main Ingredients: Corn Flour, High Gluten Flour, Baking Powder, Sugar
Another variation of the traditional fortune cake is the Chinese steamed cake, also known as "bao". These cakes are made with a similar batter as fa gao, but are steamed in larger molds to create a larger cake.
These steamed cakes are often served as a dessert or snack during Chinese New Year celebrations and can be flavored with a variety of ingredients, such as taro, pumpkin, or red bean paste. They are also commonly adorned with a lucky red and gold symbol on top for extra good luck.
Try making these steamed cakes for your Chinese New Year party and watch as they disappear in no time!
25of 40
How to make Chinese New Year Cake - Nin Gao
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice Flour, Rice Flour, Brown Sugar, Hot
Nin Gao, or Chinese New Year cake, is a sticky and sweet traditional Chinese treat that is often served during the new year festivities. This cake is made with glutinous rice flour and is similar in texture to mochi.
The cake is usually cut into slices and pan-fried with egg or served as a dessert with a drizzle of sweet syrup. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year when eaten.
Follow this easy recipe and make your own Nin Gao to share with your loved ones during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Nian Gao, also known as Chinese New Year cake, is a sweet and chewy treat that is commonly eaten during Chinese New Year celebrations. This cake is made with glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water, and is often steamed or pan-fried before being served.
The name "Nian Gao" is a homophone for "higher year", symbolizing the wish for a better and more prosperous year ahead. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten during the new year festivities.
Add some traditional flavor to your Chinese New Year feast with this simple and delicious Nian Gao recipe.
This version of Nian Gao is a slightly different take on the traditional Chinese New Year cake. Made with coconut milk, it has a slightly sweeter and richer flavor than the classic recipe.
This cake is also steamed instead of pan-fried, giving it a soft and chewy texture. It is often served as a dessert or snack during Chinese New Year celebrations and is believed to bring good luck and fortune for the upcoming year.
Impress your friends and family with this unique and delicious Nian Gao recipe at your Chinese New Year gathering.
28of 40
Chinese New Year Sweet Rice Cake (Nian Gao)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Water, Ginger, Dark Brown Sugar
Sweet rice cake, also known as Nian Gao, is a popular Chinese New Year treat that is made with glutinous rice flour and sugar. This cake is considered lucky because its name is a homophone for "higher year", symbolizing the hope for a better and more prosperous year ahead.
The cake is usually cut into slices and pan-fried with egg or served as a dessert with a drizzle of sweet syrup. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten during the new year celebrations.
Try making this sweet and sticky rice cake for your Chinese New Year feast and bring some luck and sweetness to your celebration.
29of 40
Homemade Nian Gao (Chinese New Year Steamed Red Bean...
Main Ingredients: Sweetened Red Bean Paste, Glutinous Rice Flour, Warm
This homemade version of Nian Gao is a delicious and healthier option for those looking to celebrate Chinese New Year without all the added preservatives and artificial ingredients found in store-bought versions.
Made with simple ingredients like red bean paste, glutinous rice flour, and sugar, this cake is easy to make and has a soft and chewy texture. It is often served as a dessert or snack during Chinese New Year celebrations and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.
Try making this homemade Nian Gao for a healthier and more authentic Chinese New Year experience.
30of 40
Longevity Noodles for Chinese New Year
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Toasted Sesame Oil, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Low
Longevity noodles, also known as "long life noodles", are a staple dish in Chinese culture and are often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. These noodles symbolize a long and prosperous life, making them a fitting dish for the new year.
In this recipe, the noodles are stir-fried with vegetables and protein, such as chicken or pork, and seasoned with a savory sauce. The addition of colorful vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, adds a festive touch to this dish.
Serve these longevity noodles at your Chinese New Year feast and wish your loved ones a long and prosperous life with each bite.
31of 40
Chinese New Year Chicken Fried Rice
Main Ingredients: Sesame Oil, Jasmine Rice, Chicken, Garlic Cloves
This Chinese New Year chicken fried rice is a quick and easy dish to make for your celebrations. Fried rice is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, and this version adds a festive twist with the addition of red and gold bell peppers.
The dish also includes traditional Chinese New Year ingredients such as chicken, eggs, and soy sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to your Chinese New Year feast.
Make this chicken fried rice to bring some color and flavor to your Chinese New Year celebration.
This simple yet delicious Chinese New Year cake is a must-have dish for your Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with just a few ingredients, including glutinous rice flour and sugar, this cake is easy to make and has a soft and chewy texture.
The cake is usually served as a dessert or snack, either pan-fried with egg or drizzled with a sweet syrup. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten during the new year festivities.
Add this tasty and auspicious cake to your Chinese New Year dinner menu.
This Chinese New Year skillet dish is a one-pan wonder that is perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with traditional Chinese New Year ingredients such as chicken, vegetables, and noodles, this dish is both hearty and flavorful.
The combination of savory and sweet flavors, along with the colorful vegetables, makes this dish a standout on your Chinese New Year table. Plus, the fact that it's cooked in one pan makes clean-up a breeze!
Serve this Chinese New Year skillet and impress your guests with your cooking skills and creativity.
This New Year stew is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect dish for your Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with a variety of vegetables, protein, and Chinese spices, this stew is both hearty and healthy.
The dish also includes traditional Chinese New Year ingredients such as red dates, which are believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten during the new year festivities.
Make this delicious and nourishing stew for your Chinese New Year dinner and start the year off on a healthy note.
35of 40
Chinese New Year Skillet
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Roast, Green Pepper, Pineapple Tidbits
Potstickers, also known as dumplings, are a popular Chinese New Year snack and are often served as an appetizer at Chinese New Year parties and gatherings. This easy potsticker dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment to these tasty and savory bites.
Made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil, this sauce is the perfect balance of salty, sour, and nutty flavors. It is also a popular sauce for many other Chinese dishes, making it a versatile addition to your condiment collection.
Try making this easy potsticker dipping sauce and elevate your Chinese New Year snacking game.
36of 40
New Year Stew
Main Ingredients: Collard Greens, Smoked Ham Hocks, Cooked Ham, Water
This General Tso's chicken is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine and is often served at Chinese New Year celebrations. The dish is made with crispy, fried chicken that is coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser.
The dish is named after General Tso, a Chinese military leader, and is a popular dish in both American and Chinese restaurants. It is also a fitting dish for Chinese New Year celebrations, as it represents good luck and prosperity.
Add this delicious and symbolic dish to your Chinese New Year feast and impress your guests with its bold flavors.
37of 40
Easy Potsticker Dipping Sauce and Popular Chinese New...
This vegetarian ham is a traditional dish that is often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with gluten, soy, and spices, this dish resembles the look and texture of a traditional ham, making it a popular choice for vegetarians during the new year festivities.
The dish is typically steamed and served as a main course, and is often accompanied by other vegetarian dishes and sides. It is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten during the new year celebrations.
Try making this unique and tasty vegetarian ham for your Chinese New Year dinner.
38of 40
General Tso's Chicken Chinese New Year Celebration
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Egg, Water, Flour, Black Pepper, Cayenne
Cashew chicken is a popular Chinese dish that is often served during Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce, this dish is full of flavor and texture.
The dish is also easy to make and can be adapted to suit different tastes, such as making it spicier or adding more vegetables. Serve this delicious cashew chicken at your Chinese New Year feast and watch it disappear in no time.
39of 40
Vegetarian Ham (Chinese New Year)
Main Ingredients: Bean Curd, Soy Sauce, Tamari, Water, Sugar, Fennel
Pineapple tarts, also known as "Nastar", are a popular Chinese New Year treat that is often served during the new year festivities. These buttery and crumbly tarts are filled with a sweet and tangy pineapple jam, making them a delicious and addictive snack.
The tarts are also shaped to resemble gold nuggets, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the new year. They are often given as gifts or served as a dessert at Chinese New Year parties and gatherings.
Make these mouth-watering pineapple tarts for your Chinese New Year celebration and bring some luck and sweetness to the new year.
40of 40
Chinese New Year Cashew Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Onion, Baby
This mandarin orange cake is a refreshing and light dessert that is perfect for serving at Chinese New Year celebrations. Made with fresh mandarin oranges and a fluffy cake base, this dessert is a welcome change from the rich and heavy dishes often served during the new year festivities.
The cake is also topped with a light and creamy frosting that is flavored with orange zest, giving it a burst of citrus flavor. Serve this cake at your Chinese New Year party and impress your guests with its unique and delicious taste.
The History of Fa Gao
Origins in Ancient China
The origins of fa gao can be traced back to ancient China, where it was known as "fou gao" or "fu gao." The cake was traditionally made using wheat flour, sugar, and yeast and was served as an offering to the gods during religious ceremonies. It was believed that by offering fa gao to the gods, one could receive blessings and prosperity for the coming year.
Symbolism in Chinese Culture
Over time, fa gao became a popular dish during Chinese New Year celebrations due to its auspicious symbolism. The round shape of the cakes represents fullness and unity, while the rising dough symbolizes growth and prosperity. The Chinese characters for fa gao, 发糕, also hold a deeper meaning as "fa" means prosperity and "gao" can mean cake or high, representing a rise in status or wealth.
The Traditional Fa Gao Recipe
Now that we understand the history and cultural significance of fa gao, let's take a look at a traditional Chinese New Year fa gao recipe.
Ingredients:
1 cup of rice flour
1 cup of wheat flour
1 cup of sugar
1 cup of water
1 teaspoon of active dry yeast
Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, wheat flour, and sugar.
In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Slowly pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms.
If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to give the cakes a festive touch.
Cover the batter and let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow the yeast to activate and the batter to rise.
Grease a steaming tray or cupcake molds with oil and fill them with the batter, leaving some room for the cakes to rise.
Steam the cakes for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool before serving and enjoy the delicious fa gao with your loved ones!
In conclusion, Chinese New Year fa gao is not only a tasty treat but also a meaningful dish that embodies the spirit of the holiday. By making this traditional recipe, you can join in on the cultural significance and bring good luck and prosperity to your celebrations. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try, and be sure to share your delicious fa gao with family and friends. Happy Chinese New Year!