Today is Chinese New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Rat. It might not sound too appealing but the Year of the Rat is actually one of the most auspicious in Chinese astrology because it is the first of the cycle of twelve. Legend has it that the rat was the first to arrive when the Jade Emperor invited the animals to a party. Apparently this year we can look forward to more peace and prosperity than 2007 – then again, don’t they say that every year?
Chinese New Year is a great excuse to cook up a feast – or to head to Chinatown and chow down some festive fare. Last year I threw a party and made a Kylie Kwong noodle dish with mock duck, and lots of dim sum. But this year, it’s just the two of us and I’m light on inspiration.
Should I make something? Please send me links to any fantastic recipes you want me to try. Or should I brave the crowds and head for a Chinese restaurant? What’s your favourite? I can only go to restaurants in London but if your recommendation is in another town or city, let me know about it anyway.
Post your suggestions in the comments and I’ll report back on the results.
[...] to celebrate Chinese New Year in style but unsure how, I decided to head down to Chinatown and see what I could find. Before I knew it, I was browsing [...]