Today we are celebrating Chinese New Year here at My Kitchen Table, so we’ve put together some facts and food to help you join in the festivities!

Did you know that Chinese New Year is the longest and most important festivity in the Chinese calendar. In China, it is known as ‘Spring Festival’ and marks the end of the winter season. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, Chinese families gather for their annual reunion dinner, which is known as ‘Eve of the Passing Year’.

So much for the facts; now for the food! Here are some of our favourite Chinese dishes from Ken Hom you might like to try:

• Spring rolls – always a favourite, and not only that – spring rolls are actually part of the traditional food eaten at Chinese New Year
• Dim sum-style pork dumplings – Chinese dumplings are also traditional at this time of year, and this recipe from Ken Hom is a much tastier take on them!
• Crispy aromatic duck – a great dish for sharing with friends
• Sesame prawn toast – perfect for a Chinese themed party
• Sichuan prawns in chilli sauce – a delicious, easy to make Chinese treat
• Stir fried pepper beef with mangetout – Ken Hom’s simple and tasty adaptation of a popular dish in Western Chinese restaurants

Have a great Chinese New Year! Do send us photos if you have any exciting celebrations, and let us know your favourite Chinese dishes!

Happy cooking!