Chinese Dumplings

Chinese dumplings (jiaozi) were traditionally served during the Chinese New Year in northern China and parts of southern China. Because their shape is similar to ancient Chinese gold and silver ingots, they symbolize wealth.

Family members get together to make dumplings on New Year's Eve. In some cities, people hide a coin in one of the dumplings. The person who finds the coin is thought to have good fortune in the New Year. Now days, Chinese dumplings are eaten all over China, all year.

Dumplings are delicious. One can make them using a variety of meats and vegetables, depending on one’s taste. Usually when you have dumplings for dinner, you will not have to make anything else; the dumpling is enough.

Often when friends and family leave, a gift of dumplings is given them to take away.