Chinese New Year's Eve dinner is an important Spring Festival tradition for Chinese families. It signifies togetherness, wealth and hope for the future.

Shanghai locals place a strong emphasis on Chinese New Year's Eve dinner, consuming cold dishes, hot dishes, and dim sum. The dinner is not just about quality ingredients but also about the flavor, appearance, and meaning behind the food.

Eight Treasure Rice

With ample portion sizes and a sweet taste, eight treasure rice is perfect for the whole family, symbolizing unity, sweetness, and completeness, making it the most festive dish. When served, with its perfect balance and harmonious blend of eight treasures, it brings a touch of grandeur to the table, making it an indispensable part of a traditional Chinese New Year's Eve dinner.

Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are made by rolling "spring" and "wealth" into a thin pastry sheet, then frying them until they get golden and crispy. The rolls not only offer a delicious taste but also symbolize prosperity in the new year.

Fruit Soup

In the past, fruit platters were not common, so Shanghai locals would cut canned fruits, fresh apples, pears, and oranges into small pieces before adding sago, fermented rice, or small rice balls to make a fruit soup with lotus root powder. It’s sour, sweet, fruity, and refreshing. Enjoy a steaming bowl of fruit soup to end the last meal of the old year on a high note.

Sources: chinadaily.com.cn, Xinmin Evening News, WeChat account of Shanghai Jing'an Media Center, "shanghaifabu" WeChat account