Memories of Chinese New Year's Eve dinner

As the most important meal of the year, Chinese New Year's Eve dinner is a symbol of reunion and kinship, as well as a cultural event. Chinese New Year's Eve dinner tables have also evolved as times have changed.

As a result of food scarcity in the 1960s, everything from rice and meat to eggs and cooking oil was rationed. After a year of hard work, people would reward themselves during the Spring Festival.

On New Year's Eve, some foods not normally eaten at other times of the year would be served. A fine meal was a great way to satisfy one's thirst during Spring Festival.

Although some rationing continued through the 1970s, "luxury goods" like liquor, chocolate, biscuits, cakes, and candies began to appear.

People had more money to spend in the 1980s, as the nation was beginning to prosper. In addition to fish and chicken, meats such as duck and duck became staples.

Families were able to save time by having partially prepared food arrive later. Many families in the north, for instance, buy ready-made dumplings instead of making their own.

During the 1990s, seafood that was previously considered a luxury item, such as crab and shrimp, began to appear on dinner tables.

People are increasingly interested in setting off firecrackers and fireworks during this special time instead of enjoying a tasty meal.

Growing up, many 1980s children remember listening to firecrackers while their ears were plugged. A firecracker's sound symbolized people's hopes for a better life, as well as a sense of ritual.

Living standards are improving in the 21st century, but people are also busier. The annual New Year's Eve dinner is the best opportunity for a large family to get together during the year.

Traditional family feasts have also been challenged. Families began to dine out on New Year's Eve in the 1990s as a stress-saving option for a good meal.

New Year's Eve door-to-door services have also been launched by many restaurants to cater to the market. Private dinners can also be ordered for New Year's Eve. The chef will deliver it to your door or you can invite him to make it at home.

Generation Z is also shopping online for a "semi-finished New Year's Eve dinner," according to The Paper. 

It has always been an important meal for families, regardless of its form.