11 Fish Recipes For A Prosperous 'Nian Nian You Yu' This CNY
Eating fish for Chinese families during the Lunar New Year is a must as the saying goes: "Nian Nian You Yu". Here are 11 delicious recipes
By The Weekly -
Eating fish during the Lunar New Year is a must for Chinese families as it signifies: “Nian Nian You Yu”. The Chinese word for fish, "鱼" (yú), sounds like the word for surplus or abundance, "余" (yú). Therefore, having fish on the table during CNY is believed to bring good fortune and ensure that wealth, food, and happiness will be abundant in the coming year. Additionally, fish is often served whole to symbolise unity and completeness for the family. Here are 11 of our most delicious and prosperous fish recipes to try!
Try this recipe if you or any of your loved ones aren't a fan of fishy smells. Yellow croakers are mild in flavour and usually do not have strong odours. The salted black olives also help stave off any fishy smells.
This tamarind fish recipe uses snapper and many pantry staples to make a sustainable and delicious dinner.
A Teochew-style pomfret, bathed in a rich dish of salted mustard greens, umeboshi, vegetables, and more, offers a traditional, simple, and delicious taste reminiscent of weekend dinners at your favorite zi char spot.
Impress your guests by whipping up a crispy dancing fish elevated with a zesty lemon sauce. The name of the dish points to a deep-fried fish twisted into an interesting shape.
Spice up your celebrations with his banana leaf-baked fish with chilli, aromatics and tamarind for a tantalising punch of flavour.
Relish every bite of this sweet-sour glazed fish served with healthy greens, an easy-to-cook option for both busy week nights or festive gatherings.
When you have a fresh snapper from the market, steaming is the best way to enjoy its mild, delicate flesh. Thai flavors bring a spicy kick to this recipe for steamed snapper with fish sauce.
Creamy and comforting, the sauce of this fish dish is perfect with steamed rice.
Vibrant and healthy, making this fish with crispy chilli salad is really simple with this easy recipe.
Salmon and vegetables all cooked in one tray in the oven – perfect for minimal washing up later.
A whole steamed fish represents togetherness, making this flavourful dish great for family meals and part of feasts for festive occasions.
This article was originally published on Feb 1, 2019 and updated on Jan 11, 2025.