Name: Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter: Celebrate in Style
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Cooked Shrimp (Substitute with marinated tofu for a vegetarian option.); 1 lb Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) (Can be substituted with grilled vegetables or tempeh.); 8 pieces Chicken Potstickers (Use vegetable potstickers for a vegetarian alternative.); 1 large English Cucumber (Any thin-skinned cucumber can be used.); 2 medium Bell Peppers (Red and Yellow) (Substitute with any color of bell pepper or shredded carrots.); 1 cup Sugar Snap Peas (Blanched green beans can be used as a substitute.); 1 cup Shredded Purple Cabbage (Green cabbage can work as a substitute.); 1 large Carrot (Use zucchini or other veggies for variation.); 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (Parsley can substitute but has a different flavor.); 3 stalks Green Onions (Chives can serve as a substitute.); 2 cups Cooked Sushi Rice (Quinoa can be an alternative.); 4 pieces Seaweed-Wrapped Rice Balls (Onigiri) (Can be omitted or replaced with regular rice balls.); 1 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Hoisin or plum sauce can be alternatives.); 1/2 cup Hoisin Sauce (Can be replaced with teriyaki sauce.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (Can be omitted for nut allergies.); Red Chili (optional) (Omit if a milder flavor is preferred.); 1 piece Mandarin Orange (Represents a ‘pearl’ at the dragon’s mouth.)

As the Lunar New Year approaches, I find myself immersed in a world of tradition, colors, and flavors that bring families together. This year, I wanted to create something that not only celebrates the season but also captivates the eyes as much as the taste buds. Enter the Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter – a stunning centerpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a feast fit for royalty.

Picture fresh shrimp, succulent Chinese BBQ pork, and delightful chicken potstickers, all artfully arranged to resemble a majestic dragon. As I pieced together this vibrant platter, the combination of crispy vegetables and aromatic sauces reminded me of the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones. What’s more, this dish can easily be adapted to suit any preference, offering vegetarian substitutions without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for those who are tired of fast food, this platter encourages you to savor the homemade goodness that warms the soul. Let’s dive into crafting this delightful creation that promises to elevate your New Year festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year

Visual Feast: This platter isn’t just food; it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that sparks joy and excitement for the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Flavorful Harmony: A delightful blend of shrimp, BBQ pork, and juicy vegetables creates a savory flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.

Easy to Customize: With simple substitutions like tofu for proteins, it allows you to cater to vegetarian guests without missing out on flavor.

Family-Friendly Fun: Creating this masterpiece is a fantastic way to get everyone involved in the kitchen, making it a shared family experience.

Time-Saving Assembly: Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the assembly process, allowing for more moments spent with your guests.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is perfect for gatherings, ensuring your Lunar New Year celebration is filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable flavors.

Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Ingredients

Get ready to create a stunning Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year platter that will impress your guests!

For the Proteins

Cooked Shrimp – Adds protein and a sweet, savory flavor; substitute with marinated tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu) – Provides rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors; can be substituted with grilled vegetables or tempeh.
Chicken Potstickers – Offers a savory element and satisfying texture; use vegetable potstickers for a vegetarian alternative.

For the Vegetables

English Cucumber – Outlines the dragon, providing crunch and freshness; any thin-skinned cucumber can be used.
Bell Peppers (Red and Yellow) – For vibrant color and sweetness; substitute with any color of bell pepper or shredded carrots for different flavors.
Sugar Snap Peas – Add a crisp texture; blanched green beans can be used as a substitute.
Shredded Purple Cabbage – For crunch and color contrast; green cabbage can work as a substitute.
Carrot – Stripped into matchsticks for visual appeal; use zucchini or other veggies for variation.
Fresh Cilantro – A fragrant herb that enhances freshness; parsley can substitute but has a different flavor.
Green Onions – Contribute onion flavor and color; chives can serve as a substitute.

For the Base

Cooked Sushi Rice – Forms the dragon’s body and provides structure; quinoa can be an alternative for a different texture.
Seaweed-Wrapped Rice Balls (Onigiri) – Add depth and authenticity; can be omitted or replaced with regular rice balls if not available.

For the Sauces

Sweet Chili Sauce – For dipping; adds sweetness and heat; hoisin or plum sauce can be alternatives.
Hoisin Sauce – Provides a sweet, tangy flavor; can be replaced with teriyaki sauce.
Soy Sauce – Complements flavors; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

For the Garnishes

Toasted Sesame Seeds – Garnish for texture and nuttiness; can be omitted for nut allergies.
Red Chili (optional) – For garnish and spiciness; omit if a milder flavor is preferred.
Mandarin Orange – Represents a ‘pearl’ at the dragon’s mouth; provides a sweet citrus note.

How to Make the Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter

Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Organize them in bowls or plates to streamline the assembly process later. This will save you time and help keep your workspace tidy.
Form Dragon Body: Take your cucumber slices and arrange them on a large serving board, creating a winding dragon shape that encapsulates the festive spirit. Let the dragon’s body shine with its vibrant green hue!
Add Proteins and Rice: Layer the cooked shrimp, Chinese BBQ pork, and chicken potstickers along the cucumber, creating scales for your dragon. Follow with the rice balls nestled in between, bringing a colorful contrast.
Create Fins and Tail: Use strips of bell peppers and snap peas to form dramatic fins along the dragon’s back. The shredded cabbage will serve as its elegant tail. Don’t be shy; make it as grand as you like!
Shape Dragon’s Head: Take a rice ball and place it on one end of the platter for the dragon’s head. Use sesame seeds for the eyes and thin strips of red chili to add a fiery effect, giving it character.
Add the Pearl: Near the dragon’s mouth, place a mandarin orange, representing the pearl. This adds a sweet touch to the presentation and enhances the overall theme of prosperity.
Finish with Garnishes: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds all over for that extra crunch and toss in some fresh cilantro and green onion for a burst of color. Serve everything with your choice of dipping sauces for an authentic experience.

Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle some hoisin sauce over the veggies before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Variations

Embrace the joys of customization and create your own version of this delightful dish to suit any taste or dietary preference!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp and BBQ pork for marinated tofu and tempeh, ensuring everyone can enjoy the flavors without missing a beat.
Vegan Twist: In addition to the vegetarian options, use vegan potstickers and omit any animal-derived sauces for a completely plant-based feast.
Colorful Crunch: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or radishes for a pop of color and extra freshness—nature’s palette at its best!
Fruity Fusion: Add slices of ripe mango or fresh kiwi to the platter for a tropical twist that brings sweetness to the savory elements.
Noodle Integration: Serve your Mighty Dragon Platter with a side of cold rice noodles, tossed in soy sauce, for an added layer of texture and a fun twist.
Heat it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, mix some sriracha or chili paste into the dipping sauces to spice up your Lunar New Year festivities.
Quinoa Base: Instead of rice, try a base of quinoa for a nutty flavor and added protein, making it a nutritious alternative.
Zesty Dressing: Drizzle a citrus vinaigrette over the vegetables just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.

Make Ahead Options

These Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year platter components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while preparing for their celebrations! You can chop and refrigerate the vegetables (like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cabbage) up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them fresh in airtight containers to maintain their crunch. Proteins such as the shrimp and BBQ pork can be cooked up to 3 days ahead; just store them in the fridge and reheat briefly in the microwave to retain flavor. When it’s time to serve, simply assemble the dragon body and add the garnishes, creating an impressive centerpiece effortlessly! By prepping these elements beforehand, you’ll have more time to enjoy with your loved ones during the festivities.

Expert Tips for Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter

Prep Ahead: Organize your ingredients before starting to save time and enhance the assembly experience during your festive gathering.
Dragon Shape Reference: If you’re struggling to create the dragon shape, look up images for inspiration. Using a reference can streamline the design process.
Vegetarian Options: Don’t hesitate to substitute proteins with marinated tofu or tempeh. They will create a deliciously satisfying dish while maintaining the spirit of the Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year.
Color Variety: Feel free to mix and match colors of veggies based on what you have on hand. Seasonal vegetables can make your platter even more vibrant and appealing.
Sauce Substitutions: Have fun experimenting with different sauces! If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, hoisin or plum sauce also pairs beautifully with the platter.
Allergen Awareness: Always check labels for allergens, particularly for soy or shellfish, ensuring your dish can be safely enjoyed by all guests.

Storage Tips for Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; if necessary, serve leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours to enjoy the vibrant flavors fully.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Separate sauces from the platter to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Not recommended for freezing, as the textures of shrimp, pork, and fresh vegetables may change and lose quality.

Reheating: If reusing cooked proteins, gently warm them on low heat in a skillet. Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate flavors of the Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year platter.

What to Serve with Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter?

Elevate your Lunar New Year festivities with perfect pairings that harmonize beautifully with this vibrant and festive dish.

Jasmine Rice: A light and fragrant side that complements the rich flavors on your platter, providing a neutral base to balance the meal.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Their crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the fresh elements of the platter, plus they’re always a crowd favorite.
Mango Salad: The sweetness of ripe mango with a tangy dressing brings brightness and freshness, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.
Sesame Noodles: These savory noodles make a wonderful accompaniment, adding a chewy texture and additional flavor to the table spread.
Bubble Tea: Indulge in a refreshing drink that mirrors the fun atmosphere, inviting playful sips in between bites of your delicious platter.
Lychee Dessert: Finish your meal on a sweet note with these delicate, fruity treats that cleanse the palate and provide a lovely end to your celebration.
Sparkling Sake: This effervescent drink elevates the dining experience, echoing the festive spirit and bringing everyone together in a toast to prosperity.
Steamed Buns: Soft and fluffy, these buns are perfect for sharing, making your meal feel even more communal and celebratory, just like the Lunar New Year spirit!

Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter Recipe FAQs

What type of cucumber should I use for the platter?
Absolutely! You can use any thin-skinned cucumber; I particularly love English cucumbers for their crunch and low seed content. Just make sure to choose ones that are firm and without dark spots, as these will add the best freshness and flavor to your Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter.

How long can I store leftovers from the platter?
Very! If you happen to have leftover Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just be sure to separate any dipping sauces to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess in the vegetables.

Can I freeze the ingredients from the platter?
I don’t recommend it, as freezing can alter the textures of the shrimp, BBQ pork, and fresh vegetables. If you do want to prepare for future use, consider freezing cooked proteins separately. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reusing.

What should I do if my shrimp seem overcooked?
If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it’s usually because they were cooked for too long. Next time, keep an eye on them while cooking—shrimp should only take about 3 to 4 minutes to become opaque and tender. A quick tip: If you can, undercook them slightly; they’ll continue cooking from residual heat once removed from the pan.

Are there any allergens in the Mighty Dragon Lunar New Year Platter?
Definitely be cautious! The platter contains common allergens, particularly shellfish from the shrimp and soy from the sauces. I always recommend checking labels for allergens or offering vegetarian alternatives like marinated tofu and gluten-free soy sauce to cater to guests with dietary restrictions.

How can I make this recipe fully vegetarian without losing flavor?
Creating a vegetarian version is very easy! Substitute the shrimp with marinated tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable potstickers in place of chicken. You can also enhance flavors with an array of vibrant seasonal vegetables, and don’t skimp on those aromatic sauces—they pack a punch!