In China, Chongqing is a city known for its delicacies. In addition, as the Spring Festival is drawing near, people are busy preparing for the reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve. Generally, the locals of Chongqing have to set the following dishes.

Fish

Suancaiyu is a typical fish dish of Chongqing, with spicy chili and Sichuan pepper seasoning.

Like any other places in China, fish is a must-eat dish at the reunion dinner. Because the pronunciation of "fish" (鱼/yu) in Chinese is the same as "abundance" (余/yu). Thus, eating fish is to wish you a year of abundance.

Chicken

Baikanji is a cold dish of chicken soaked in spicy oil and covered with sesames and crushed peanuts.

Similar to the story of "fish", the Chinese word for "chicken" (鸡/ji) is also a homonym for the word "good luck" (吉/ji). Therefore, it symbolizes a year of luck. Moreover, as chicken can fit in almost all cooking methods in a Chinese kitchen, you can choose the way you like without worrying about the taste.

Shaobai (Steamed Pork Belly with Preserved Mustard Leaves)

Shaobai

Commonly known as Mei Cai Kou Rou, the Steamed Pork Belly with Preserved Mustard Leaves is called "shaobai" in Sichuan and Chongqing. It is a dish of braised and then steamed pork belly, holds a high position on the Chinese comfort food list. 

Fenzhengrou (Steamed Pork Belly with Rice Flour)

Fenzhengrou

There is no doubt that no one in Chongqing can say "no" to this dish. Pork belly enjoys a perfect ratio of fat and lean meat, and rice flour covered with oil is delicious but not greasy.

Jiasharou (Steamed Pork Slices with Red Bean Paste)

Jiasharou

Soft and glutinous, steamed pork slices with red bean paste is the favorite of children and the old.

Steamed Meatball with Glutinous Rice

Steamed Meatball with Glutinous Rice

The meatball is a symbol of the family getting together. Therefore it becomes a delicacy commonly seen at the reunion dinner. What's more, meatballs covered by white and crystal glutinous rice are like round and smooth pearls, alluring people to have a try.

Chinese Sausages and Preserved Meat

Chinese Sausages and Preserved Meat

Chinese sausages and preserved meat are “stars” at the reunion dinner. Although people have varied receipts, the smoked flavor is just the same and is still Chongqing people’s favorite.

Source: CQCB