TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The National Fishermen's Association (ROCNFA, 全國漁會) has launched five seafood gift boxes for Lunar New Year, featuring high-quality catches for family gatherings as Taiwan prepares for the holiday on Feb. 17. Seafood plays a significant role in Lunar New Year festivities, with dishes like pomfret symbolizing prosperity and abundance. Families across Taiwan are gearing up for traditional celebrations, including ancestor worship, offerings to the earth god, and reunion dinners.
Mullet roe, hailed as the "king of holiday seafood," is a top online discussion among Taiwanese consumers. Taiwanese fishermen and aquaculturists harvest mullet during winter, then salt and sun-dry the roe to create this delicacy. Families enjoy grilled mullet roe during Lunar New Year festivities because its fish eggs symbolize fertility and prosperity, with common preparations including seared slices or cold platters served with garlic and radish.
Fish maw, also known as fish stomach, represents nourishment and abundance, making it a popular choice among older adults and for gifting during the Lunar New Year holiday season. Dried shrimp and sakura shrimp, despite their small size, enhance the flavor of festive dishes prepared for reunion dinners. Dried small fish, rich in calcium and protein, carry auspicious meanings of fertility and appeal to both young and elderly family members gathering for celebrations.
Squid is consumed to bless children's health, while flame jellyfish, with its crisp texture and collagen content, offers a refreshing appetizer that complements the rich holiday fare. Dried abalone, considered the pinnacle of seafood, signifies wealth and luxury. Chefs best prepare it by simmering it in chicken broth or incorporating it into dishes like Buddha Jumps Over the Wall (佛跳牆), a traditional Fujian dish requiring multiple rounds of soaking and boiling.
The ROCNFA also markets nutritional supplements such as fish essence and collagen jelly drinks to cater to diverse gifting needs during the holiday season. The demonstration fish market in New Taipei City's Sanchong District (三重區) is a prime location for buying holiday seafood. The market offers domestic fish species such as golden pomfret, golden bass, and dragon grouper, each with auspicious meanings for Lunar New Year celebrations. ◼
