When Chinese New Year approaches, one of the most anticipated traditions is the Yu Sheng toss, also known as "Lo Hei". This symbolic dish, filled with fresh ingredients, celebrates prosperity, good fortune, and the spirit of togetherness. To truly enjoy the tradition, it’s important to use the best Lo Hei ingredients, ensuring that each toss brings joy, flavour, and prosperity into the new year.
In this article, we’ll explore the key ingredients that make up the perfect Yu Sheng and share tips on sourcing the freshest ingredients, including smoked salmon, sashimi-grade salmon, and live abalone. Whether you're planning a festive family meal or preparing for a big celebration, knowing what to look for will elevate your Lo Hei experience.
What is Yu Sheng or Lo Hei?
Yu Sheng is a vibrant and colourful raw fish salad typically eaten during Chinese New Year celebrations. The name “Lo Hei” refers to the act of tossing the ingredients while shouting auspicious phrases, symbolising the invitation of prosperity and good fortune for the upcoming year. Traditionally, Yu Sheng includes a combination of vegetables, condiments, and fish, all of which come together in a harmonious celebration of health, wealth, and abundance.
Key Lo Hei Ingredients
To create a memorable Yu Sheng, the right combination of ingredients is essential. Let’s take a closer look at the traditional and modern ingredients that make up the perfect Lo Hei.
1. Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng
Smoked salmon has become a popular alternative to traditional raw fish in recent years. Its delicate texture and rich flavour add depth to the dish, making it a great choice for those who prefer a slightly different twist on their Yu Sheng. The subtle smokiness complements the fresh vegetables and tangy condiments, creating a harmonious blend of tastes
2. Sashimi-Grade Salmon
For the purists who prefer raw fish in their Yu Sheng, sashimi-grade salmon is the perfect choice. This premium quality fish is sliced thinly and added to the salad to provide a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Sashimi-grade salmon is fresh, clean, and ready to eat, making it an essential ingredient for a traditional Yu Sheng. Its vibrant pink hue also adds a splash of colour to the dish.
3. Fresh Salmon Fillet
If you’re looking for an alternative to smoked or sashimi-grade salmon, a fresh salmon fillet can also be used. Thinly sliced, this fresh salmon offers a clean taste and pairs well with the other fresh ingredients in the salad. When buying a fresh salmon fillet, look for one with firm, bright flesh and minimal odour.
4. Live or Canned Abalone
Another luxurious addition to your Lo Hei is live abalone. Known for its tender meat and subtle flavour, live abalone is a popular choice in high-end Yu Sheng preparations. Or you can choose canned Abalone for your convenience. Adding slices of this prized seafood not only enhances the texture of the dish but also elevates the overall taste experience, making it a true indulgence for your celebration.
5. Vegetables
Aside from the fish, a variety of shredded vegetables make up the bulk of a Yu Sheng. These typically include carrots, radish, cucumber, and pomelo, offering a refreshing crunch and a burst of colour. Each vegetable represents different blessings, such as good health, longevity, and prosperity. Other common additions include pickled ginger, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts, all of which bring different textures and flavours to the dish.
6. Condiments for Yu Sheng
The condiments that accompany the Lo Hei ingredients are just as important. Plum sauce, five-spice powder, and peanut powder are traditional additions that bring sweetness, spice, and a nutty flavour to the dish. For an extra touch, some may add crispy crackers or fried flour sticks for a delightful crunch. The final touch is a drizzle of oil, symbolising wealth and abundance.
Sourcing the Best Fresh Lo Hei Ingredients
When preparing your Yu Sheng, the freshness of your ingredients is paramount. Whether you’re looking to buy smoked salmon, fresh salmon fillet, or live abalone, quality is key to creating a truly special dish. Look for reputable suppliers that offer premium seafood, ensuring that the fish is fresh, clean, and sashimi-grade. For the best Yu Sheng ingredients, it’s essential to trust the quality and freshness of the products you choose.
At Seaco Online, we offer a range of top-quality fresh ingredients for your Lo Hei, including sashimi-grade salmon, smoked salmon, and live abalone. With our fresh salmon offers, you can be confident that you’re using the best ingredients for your Chinese New Year celebrations. Whether you’re making a traditional dish or trying a modern twist, we have everything you need for the perfect Yu Sheng toss.
A Fresh Twist on Your Chinese New Year Lo Hei
The tradition of Lo Hei is a joyful occasion, bringing people together to celebrate the new year. While the ingredients may vary, one thing remains constant—the celebration of good fortune and the hope for a prosperous year ahead. By using fresh, high-quality ingredients from Seaco like smoked salmon, sashimi-grade salmon, live abalone, and fresh vegetables, you’ll be sure to impress your guests and make this year’s Lo Hei truly unforgettable.
FAQs
1. How do I properly toss the Yu Sheng for the best results?
To achieve the best results, everyone at the table should stand and use chopsticks to toss the ingredients together as high as possible while saying auspicious phrases. The higher you toss, the greater the prosperity and luck for the new year! Make sure to mix all the ingredients thoroughly, allowing the flavours to blend and everyone to participate in the joyful celebration.
2. Is it necessary to use live abalone in Yu Sheng?
While live abalone is a luxurious and traditional addition that enhances the flavour and texture of the dish, it is not strictly necessary. If live abalone is not available, you can substitute it with other high-quality seafood, such as sashimi-grade salmon or even fresh crab meat. The key is to use fresh, premium ingredients to create a dish that’s full of flavour and symbolic meaning.