
Tiger years are explosive years with vast swings of extremes. Fortunes will be made and fortunes will be lost. It's a big, bold year that promises many surprises.
To emphasize and hope for positive surprises in the new year, all Chinese and Asians who recognize the Lunar New Year, will prepare and enjoy symbolic foods to ward off the bad and welcome in good fortune.
Have you ever noticed Chinese calligraphy posters hanging upside down in stores and on doors? It's always one single Chinese character -- usually gold on a red background ( auspicious colors). In the photograph I'm holding the word for Good Fortune ( fu) and I'm holding it upside down. The reason is that the Chinese word for "upside down" is a homonym for the word "has arrived." Therefore the symbolism here is that "Good Fortune has arrived." When I was at my cousin's home in Beijing they have the good luck character pasted upside down on their door. Look for it when you are in Chinatown or a Chinese market.
I also have dishes with apples and oranges. These two fruits symbolize prosperity and peace. The Chinese word for apple is ping guo. Ping is a homonym for the word, "Peace." And oranges, in ancient times, was given out by the emperor to his officials for good luck. The Chinese word for orange, ju, sounds like the word ji, "luck" or "good fortune."
There's also a large ceramic peanut on the counter. It's an unusual piece to Western eyes. The peanut symbolizes long life so having peanuts and serving peanuts during the New Year is symbolic of Longevity.
So, my photo is more than just a picture. It carries with it hidden meanings to wish you all peace, luck, longevity and good fortune.
XIN NIAN KUAI LE! (Happy New Year!)
Helen....thank-you for the explanation of the upside down characters. I have seen this displayed at my church and had wondered why it was hung that way.
ReplyDeleteOne question that I would like to ask of you, Helen.
ReplyDeleteI just purchased your carbon steel wok and would like to know how and how often I should season my wok.
Thanks,
Steve Edelman
McLean, VA
I was fortunate to take one of Helen Chen's cooking classes. I so enjoyed learning some cooking techniques & tips. I have already cooked 3 stir fry recipes- they have been delicious. I also have used the rice cooker w/ excellent results. Thanks for broadening my recipe base, Helen. The food is delicious & healthy.
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