In case you thought the new year celebrations were over – think again.
Lunar New Year is right around the corner! This year, on Tuesday, February 5, millions of people will be celebrating the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar.
Each year represents one of the twelve Chinese zodiac symbols, and 2019 marks the beginning of the Year of the Pig.
Traditionally, families will gather for a large, festive dinner on Lunar New Year’s Eve with foods that hold many symbolic meanings.
And while there are many of these dishes that contain fish and meat, there are a plethora of vegan and vegetarian options that are just as delicious!
So, in honor of the Year of the Pig – help us help these gentle farm animal friends by reducing your meat consumption this year and choosing some meatless options for the big Lunar New Year festivities!
Here are 5 of our favorite recipes to get you started:
1. Pan Fried Vegetarian Dumplings – via Red House Spice
Photo by Red House Spice
2. Chinese Hot Oil Noodles (You Po Mian) – via One Green Planet
3. Buddha's Delight (Lo Han Jai) – via Omnivore's Cookbook
4. Snow Fungus with Gingko & Red Dates – via Noob Cook
5. Wild Mushroom Daikon Radish Cake – via Vegan Miam
The Year of the Pig is believed to bring luck but can also bring indulgence, so why not start the year off on the right hoof with a decision to eat less meat which is not only good for farm animals but also your health and the environment.