First off, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Lunar New Year 2022!!! 新年快乐！Lunar (or Chinese) New Year runs from February 1st to February 15th this year, and it’s the Year of the Tiger! For those unfamiliar with the Chinese zodiac, it is a zodiac (similar to the astrology zodiac signs) represented by twelve (12) animals listed in order. Every animal has its own significance and symbolizes different personality traits and fortunes. Each new year (according to the traditional Lunar calendar) is assigned to the next animal on the list. Last year was the Year of the Ox, and thus, this year is the Year of the Tiger. Anyway, I digress.
In celebration of the Lunar New Year, this post will be dedicated to sharing my favourite traditional Chinese treats and snacks! In particular, these are all snacks popular in Northern China, which is where my family comes from. There are many, many other types of snacks from different locations across China. You can find most of the ones I mention at your local T&T or the “International Foods” aisle at Walmart. Lunar New Year or not, snacks will never get old! Please note that some of the snacks listed below contain meat, seafood, dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, and others. Otherwise, enjoy!!!
1. White Rabbit Candy （大白兔奶糖)
My favourite candy ever! A chewy, creamy, milk candy that will make your mouth water! It is not too sweet and takes just the right amount of time to dissolve. Perfect for fans of white chocolate!
2. Pineapple Cake （凤梨酥)
A sweet pastry filled with a textured, pineapple filling! A quick and delicious addition to any meal.
3. Walnut Cookies （桃酥饼)
Crunchy yet delicate, these cookies are certainly unique! They come individually wrapped in a box. Beware, they crumble very easily!
4. Egg Tart （蛋挞)
An aromatic, sweet treat! Don’t worry, these aren’t those icky, sugar-loaded butter tarts they sell at Walmart. I’m unsure if they sell these ready-made since we usually buy the frozen tart shells and create the sweet egg filling at home. You can also add toppings, such as raisins!
5. Haw Flakes （山楂饼）
Extracted from the Chinese hawthorn fruit and then sweetened, this snack is tasty and healthy! Due to the nutritional benefits of hawthorn, Haw Flakes are my go-to food when I have a stomach ache or digestive issues. But they can be enjoyed at any time!
6. Want Want Rice Crackers（旺旺雪饼）
If you have an Asian kid in your class, chances are, you’ve seen them munch on these crackers. They are crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth, sweet rice crackers that have a touch of saltiness! Want Want sells a variety of these crackers, but I think the original flavour tastes the best!
7. ShaQima（沙琪玛）
The Chinese version of Rice Krispies (except not overly sweet)! Made from fried, fluffy batter and solidified with a sugary syrup, you will devour these in two seconds!
8. Energy Grain Bar（能量99棒）
These aren’t your typical protein/energy bars with weird-tasting fillings. These bars are made of a variety of grains that will keep you energized. Having a sweet and salty composition, you’ll never get tired (pun intended) of eating this delicious snack!
9. Assorted Peanut Candy（酥心糖）
No celebration is complete without these candies! They are crispy, crunchy, and are glazed with a hard, sugar coating. And they come in a packet with five different flavours.
10. Dried Squid （鱿鱼丝）
I am absolutely addicted to this snack!!! Although at first, it may seem intimidating or revolting to be eating squid, I assure you that after trying a piece, you will love it! If you’re not a huge fan of the regular squid flavour, try the spicy version!
11. Crunchy Rice Rolls（米棒）
Puffed rice + sugar syrup = a healthy, tasty, snack!
12. Guazi（瓜子）
Guazi, also known as baked sunflower, pumpkin, or watermelon seeds, are basically the popcorn of China. Many eat it in the place of chewing gum, or whilst watching TV. You crack it open with your teeth, use your tongue to scoop out the seed, then spit out the shell. There are also many flavours available!
13. Candied Hawthorn （冰糖葫芦）
This traditional candy has been around for millennia, and I can see why! This treat is made from hawthorn fruit coated in hardened syrup, much like mini candy apples on a stick. The inside is sour whereas the outside is sweet, creating the perfect combination of tastes!
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