As Chinese New Year approaches, Chef Lei Kalin is gearing up for his busiest time of the year: cooking thousands of chicken dishes at his Cantonese restaurant. From tender steamed cuts to richly flavored boiled preparations, chicken remains a non-negotiable symbol of luck and joy for the Lunar New Year. 🎇
\"Every family wants a chicken dish on their table—it’s like edible confetti celebrating new beginnings,\" Lei says, laughing. The tradition, rooted in Cantonese culture, ties the bird’s name (ji in Mandarin) to the word for \"good fortune,\" making it a culinary must-have. 🍲
But it’s not just about flavor! Each cooking method carries meaning: steamed chicken represents purity and renewal, while slow-boiled versions embody family unity. 🪔 For young foodies and culture enthusiasts, this is a tasty reminder of how traditions connect generations—one savory bite at a time.
