This year, we had our reunion dinner with my parents early. I think it’s a terrific idea because we can then have the new year’s eve evening free for some last minute cleaning and errands. We also planned for a reunion lunch at the in-laws on the eve of the CNY.
As per past years, we had steamboat for dinner last night. Steamboat is a staple item on our dining table. I guess many families are following this tradition as it’s easier to prepare and clean up. Having steamboat also signifies togetherness and bonding. We had great fun cooking the dishes around us and we siblings often tease one another during the meal, making guesses if the food in our ladles was ready to eat. My sis almost swallowed a raw scallop and it caused my brother to burst out laughing.
My mum usually prepares more than enough food for such dinners so that there will be leftovers as it is auspicious. We don’t usually finish everything also. According to my mum, it symbolizes ‘excess‘; which I think she meant having surplus food year after year. We also eat one kind of vegetable called ‘leeks‘. It means you will have extra money to keep.
The leftovers were used as the main ingredients for green noodles for today’s lunch.
Our Lunch
Close up
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Preparing ‘more than enough food’ is a habit exercised by my Mom as well. She simply loves to cook food and share it with my friends.
that’s very nice :) it’s always good to have surplus in case some guests would prefer to eat more, especially if it is delicious!
I’m fortunate. She really knows the art of cooking great recipes.
that’s good, i am still learning the art of cooking ;D