Chinese New Year (华人新年) or Spring Festival (春节), particularly in Southeast Asian cultures, involves eating Bak Kwa (肉干) because its deep red colour symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and joy. The sweet and savoury dried meat represents wealth, abundance, and the desire to ward off negative energy for the coming year. BBQ pork 🐷🥓 or Chinese pork jerky, holds significant symbolism during Chinese New Year and is a beloved festive treat. Reasons for Eating Bak Kwa during Lunar New Year (农历新年):
Auspicious Symbolism: often associated with wealth and abundance due to its rich flavour and reddish-golden colour. It symbolizes good fortune in Chinese culture.
Sign of Abundance: Historically, meat was a luxury item, its sweet, smoky flavour is believed to signify a sweet and auspicious start to the new year, aligning with the desire for happiness and success in the months ahead.
Prosperity and Wealth: The pig itself is seen as a sign of wealth, and eating pork is believed to bring strength and good fortune. Here, the bak kwa even comes in the shape of a pig 🐖 or gold coins. 🪙
Cultural Tradition: It is a staple, particularly in Singapore 🇸🇬 and Malaysia 🇲🇾, often given as gifts to family, friends and business associates as a token of goodwill and appreciation, reflecting the importance of sharing blessings.
Selected images from here, here and here.
