Fish for Chinese Spring Festival

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Nian Nian You Yu – 年年有余

Fish for Chinese Spring Festival

Sea bass with Thai basil

Fish for Chinese Spring Festival

Whole sea bass steamed

Fish for Chinese Spring Festival

Crispy deep-fried sea bream in Thai basil sauce

Fish for Chinese Spring Festival

Fish is a must-have for the Chinese New Year celebration. 年年有餘 The phrase 'nián nián yǒu yú' means 'having abundance year after year'. This is because the word 'fish' [yú] sounds the same as the word for 'surplus' or 'remaining' [yú]. Fish therefore holds strong symbolic power. Who wouldn't want to always have something left over?

Almost all types of fish are suitable for this occasion, and it's usually served whole.

We've created some variations for you to try here.