Chinese New Year Food Rxs!

                         Eat Chinese Food For Better Luck!
The Chinese New Year is almost upon us, if the American New Year isn't
bringing you any luck, perhaps eating some foods associated with
the Chinese -will help turn things around.

The Foods: 
1) Noodles-
Noodles symbolize longevity, they're also popular in Japanese
culture. If you buy noodles for the Chinese New Year,  make sure
they're long, and when you cook them-leave them intact, cutting them
means 12 months of bad luck.
2) Dumplings-
Dumplings symbolize money and fortune. Not sure how to make them?
Buy some at Trader Joe's. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and soy sauce
on them.
3) Spring Rolls-
In China, fried spring rolls are edible representations of blocks
of gold. Find them at your local Supermarket, filled with either
chicken or vegetables.
4) Kumquats-
Known as "Gam Gat Sue" these tart/sweet citrus fruits,
are considered a good luck food.  Place them in a bowl,
so you and your family can look at and then enjoy them.
Find kumquats at your local Supermarket or a Produce store.
Look below for a delicious beverage using the Kumquat!
5) Clams-
Opening a clam-means opening your heart to new possibilities.
6) Melons-
Melons create family unity. Add some melon to fruit salad,
or just enjoy melon plain-with some sea salt or a sprinkle
of lemon or lime juice.

The Kumquat Good Luck Drink!
Grab a pitcher, mix in 10 oz. lemon-lime
soda with orange liquer, about 3 oz.
(look for triple sec or Cointreau) and 8 kumquats,
thinly sliced. Serve over ice.

That's it- and if you need more tips on buying and preparing
food for the Chinese New Year, go online-SpicesOfLife.com!

Good Luck!
JGib~~
NRFATW!