A Red Envelope For You!

According to Chinese Astrology, 2009 is the Year of the Ox. Happy Ox Year! (doesn't that have a nice ring to it?)

In preparation for the Lunar New Year, I did a little research and found out that most of the dishes traditionally served for this celebration are symbolic of something optimistic and positive.

- Chicken and fish symbolize happiness and prosperity - especially when served whole.
- Dishes made with oranges represent wealth and good fortune because they are China's most plentiful fruit.
- Noodles represent longevity, therefore, they should never be cut!
- Duck symbolizes fidelity, while eggs signify fertility.

1 for 4 ain't too shabby, right? At least our meal didn't include bean curd or tofu - both avoided because the white color suggests death and misfortune.

Traditional Chinese or not, I'd eat this meal anyday. And pay no attention to the fact that the noodles I used are Japanese. I'm only half-Chinese anyway!

Stir-Fried Shrimp with Garlic and Chili Sauce
adapted from Cooking Light

1/3 c fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp dry sherry
1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
a pinch of white pepper
1/2 TBSP canola oil
3/4 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 TBSP minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 c (1-inch) slices green onions
1/4 tsp dark sesame oil
Cilantro sprigs (optional)

1. Combine first 6 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Prepare all ingredients including mincing garlic and finely chopping jalapeño.

2. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add canola oil to pan. Add shrimp to pan; stir-fry 1 minute or until shrimp begin to turn pink. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño; stir-fry 1 minute.

3. Stir in broth mixture; cook 1 minute or until shrimp are done and sauce is thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in onions and sesame oil. Garnish with cilantro sprigs, if desired.

*I increased the sauce ingredients and decreased the heat - made as the recipe states online, it's very hot, so adjust to your liking.