Year of the Snake Celebrates with 6 Plant-Based Recipes Embracing Wisdom and Elegance

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As the Year of the Snake slithers into our lives on January 29th, 2025, it’s time to embrace the virtues of this sixth sign in the Chinese zodiac. Known for wisdom, elegance, and transformation, the Snake invites us to reflect and celebrate with intention.

What better way to do so than with plant-based dishes that embody its graceful qualities? Whether you’re hosting a Lunar New Year feast or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these six recipes capture the spirit of the Snake while being mindful of health and sustainability.

Click on images for recipes.

1. Silken Tofu Dumplings with Ginger-Chilli Dipping Sauce

Dumplings are a Lunar New Year classic, symbolising wealth and prosperity. Tofu gives these plant-based dumplings a smooth, elegant texture, while ginger and chilli bring the transformative heat snakes are known for.

Source: Verve Mag - Silken Tofu Dumplings with Ginger-Chilli Dipping Sauce

2. Longevity Noodles with Sesame and Mushrooms

Snakes are revered for their wisdom, and long noodles symbolise a wise and enduring life. Tossed with earthy mushrooms and nutty sesame, this dish is rich in flavour and meaning.

Source: Omnivores Cook Book - Longevity Noodles with Sesame and Mushrooms

3. Sticky Braised Jackfruit Bao

The Snake is graceful yet powerful, just like jackfruit’s ability to transform into a deliciously satisfying bao filling. These fluffy buns, coated in a sticky sesame glaze, are perfect for sharing and celebrating togetherness.

Source: Gasoakleychef -Sticky Braised Jackfruit Bao

4. Crispy Spring Rolls with Spiced Vegetable Filling

Spring rolls, symbolising wealth, take on a modern twist with a spiced vegetable filling. Their golden, crispy shells reflect the elegance and allure of the Snake.

Source: Bianca Zapatka -Crispy Spring Rolls with Spiced Vegetable Filling

5. Five-Spice Mapo Tofu with Sichuan Peppercorns

Bold yet refined, the Snake’s energy is captured in this classic dish made plant-based. The five-spice blend nods to balance and harmony, while Sichuan peppercorns add a transformative kick.

Source: The Foodie Takes Flight - Five-Spice Mapo Tofu with Sichuan Peppercorns

6. Mandarin Sorbet

Mandarin oranges are a symbol of luck, and this refreshing sorbet closes the celebration on a sweet, vibrant note. Its bright citrus tang mirrors the Snake’s transformative and insightful nature.

Source: Misfit Garden - Mandarin Sorbet

These plant-based recipes combine tradition with innovation, making them perfect for the Year of the Snake.

So, as the Snake’s year begins, gather your loved ones, prepare these dishes, and embrace the wisdom and renewal it brings to your table.

Gōngxǐ Fācái - Wishing you prosperity and wealth

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