Red-Stamped Buns: Jinhua’s Tasty Tradition for the Lunar New Year
As the “Little New Year” festivities kick off on January 22 and 23, 2025, the city of Jinhua in Zhejiang Province, China, is abuzz with activity. Nearly 100 bustling workshops are working around the clock, crafting the famous red-stamped buns that adorn New Year tables across the region.
The “Little New Year,” celebrated on different days in northern and southern China, marks the prelude to the Lunar New Year celebrations. In Jinhua, the tradition of making red-stamped buns is a cherished practice that symbolizes unity, prosperity, and hope for the year ahead.
These iconic steamed buns, adorned with bright red stamps, are more than just a festive delicacy. Each stamp is carefully pressed onto the soft dough, featuring auspicious symbols and phrases that convey blessings for wealth, good fortune, and happiness.
Workers in the workshops race against time to meet the high demand, ensuring that every family can enjoy this essential part of their New Year’s Eve dinner. On reunion tables, braised pork paired with steamed buns is a must-have dish, often serving as the highlight of the feast.
“Preparing red-stamped buns is a way for us to welcome the New Year with joy and hope,” says Li Wei, a local baker. “It’s a tradition passed down through generations, and we take pride in bringing our community together through food.”
For the people of Jinhua, these buns are not only a culinary delight but also a symbol of cultural heritage. Families come together to share in the making and eating of the buns, reinforcing bonds and celebrating the spirit of the season.
As the aroma of freshly steamed buns fills the air, Jinhua’s streets reflect the vibrant energy and anticipation that comes with the approach of the Lunar New Year. The red-stamped buns serve as a delicious reminder of the traditions that continue to thrive in modern China.
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Red-stamped buns bring prosperity to Jinhua's New Year tables
cgtn.com
