Hi everyone, Happy Chinese New Year!
Every Chinese New Year, Chinese families, friends and colleagues gather to have a ceremony known as Lo Hei, that involves the preparation and indulgence of the traditional Chinese dish called Yu Sheng. The Chinese pronunciation of Yu Sheng directly translates to an increase in abundance, hence its symbolic meaning of abundance, prosperity and good fortune.
In this video, Nerdy and Cai Shen Ye discuss the traditional way of eating Yu Sheng. Just before the plate of Yu Sheng is placed on the table, one must say Gong Xi Fai Cai, Wan Shi Ru Yi (恭喜发财, 万事如意). After which comes a list of wishes to say with every ingredient that goes into the plate. Finally, everyone at the table will proceed to toss the Yu Sheng into the air – the high one tosses, the greater his/her fortunes.
Here are the corresponding wishes:
Main ingredients:-
1) Olive Oil – Cai Yuan Guang Jin (财源广进) signifies Countless Wealth
2) Red (Carrot/Yam/Ginger) – Hong Yun Dang Tou (鸿运当头) signifies Luck
3) Green (Cucumber/Yam) – Qing Chun Chang Zhu (青春常驻) signifies Youth
4) White (Radish) – Bu Bu Gao Shen (步步高升) signifies Good Business Prospect
5) Powder (Pepper/Cinnamon) – Zhao Cai Jin Bao (招财进宝) signifies Wealth
6) Raw Fish (Salmon) – Nian Nian You Yu (年年有余) / (Abalone) – Nian Nian Bao You Yu (年年包有余) signifies Abundance Through the Year
7) Pomelo – Da Ji Da Li (大吉大利) signifies Smooth Sailing Luck
Condiments:-
9) Crushed Peanuts – Jin Yin Man Wu (金银满屋) signifies House Full of Gold
10) Sesame Seeds – Sheng Yi Xing Long (生意兴隆) signifies Business Prosperity
11) Pok Chui Crackers – Man Di Huang Jin (翩地黄金) signifies Floor Full of Gold
12) Plum Sauce – Tian Tian Mi Mi (甜甜蜜蜜) signifies Sweet Relationship