Just when you thought the feasting was over after Christmas, Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, will be celebrated from this Sunday, 22 January 2023, with lots of delicious food traditions prepared, served and eaten in symbolic ways.
The holiday is observed by more than two billion people in Asian communities across the world, with many more respectfully embracing the cultural customs and food. Fish is a staple on the menu and is seen as a sign of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune.
Welcome in the Year of the Rabbit with your own Asian-inspired steamed whole Aquna recipe created by superstar chef Josh Niland. See the how-to video below for step-by-step instructions. First, what’s the symbolism behind steamed whole fish?
Symbolic ways to celebrate with steamed whole fish
Steamed whole fish is one of the most famous Lunar New Year recipes. The pronunciation of the Chinese word for ‘fish’ also means ‘being abundant’, which is why you’ll see platters of steamed whole fish at banquets and dinner tables.
Serving the whole fish — including the head and tail — is important, because it means you’ll get luck for the whole year ahead. For the dish to truly symbolise surplus, the fish should be the last meal left on the dinner table with some leftovers.
Watch Josh Niland prepare Asian-inspired steamed whole Aquna
Aquna Murray Cod is a great choice for your Lunar New Year feast because the white-flesh fish holds together well when steamed. In this video, Josh Niland creates Drunken Aquna Murray Cod and Ginger Shallot from a 600-800g whole Aquna.
While Aquna’s versatility and fresh flavour make it the perfect good-fortune fish this Lunar New Year, it’s also proving to be a hit among tennis fans at the Australian Open where our friends at Stokehouse are serving it up.
Want to cook Aquna Murray Cod this Lunar New Year?
Aquna is available in select Coles stores. Aquna is also in 150 Woolworths stores throughout NSW and Victoria. You’ll find Aquna in the take-home seafood section. Or, ask for Aquna at your local fish market retailer.
Want to cook Aquna Murray Cod at your restaurant?
Keen to know more about Aquna Murray Cod? Have a conversation with us about your wholesale supply.