The New Trend of Wine Pairing: The Perfect Companion for Hong Kong-style Cha Chaan Teng Dishes
[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.
Every Lunar New Year, poon choi becomes one of the most popular dishes for family reunions. This traditional delicacy, with its rich ingredients and multi-layered texture, perfectly embodies the essence of Chinese cuisine. Choosing a suitable wine to accompany poon choi can not only enhance the overall dining experience but also add a touch of elegance and warmth to the reunion.
During the Lunar New Year, Pen Cai becomes one of the most popular festive dishes for family reunions. This traditional delicacy perfectly embodies the essence of Chinese cuisine with its rich ingredients and multi-layered textures. Choosing a suitable wine to accompany Pen Cai during the reunion dinner not only enhances the overall dining experience, but also adds a touch of elegance and warmth to the gathering.
The Origin of Pen Cai
Pen Cai originated from the Guangdong region and is a traditional festive dish that symbolizes abundance, good fortune, and longevity. It is typically served in a large wooden or ceramic pot, containing a variety of rich ingredients such as abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw, roast goose, roast meat, and winter mushrooms. Each layer of ingredients represents different auspicious meanings, such as wealth, happiness, and health, embodying rich Chinese cultural significance. A dish that combines taste and symbolic meaning should indeed be paired with selected wines to highlight its exquisite qualities.
Suggested Wine Pairings with Festive Dishes
When discussing wine pairings with Chinese dishes, it's essential to consider the flavor characteristics of the ingredients, the seasoning style, and the overall balance of flavors. Here are a few carefully selected tips for pairing fine wines with festive dishes to help you impress your guests at the reunion dinner.
1. Delicacy of Seafood and Freshness of White Wine
When seafood, such as abalone and sea cucumber, takes the spotlight in Pen Cai, a fresh and mineral-driven white wine, such as Chardonnay from Chablis, France, can be a great choice. These wines have moderate acidity and notes of green apple and citrus, which perfectly balance the freshness of the seafood, without overshadowing the natural delicacy of the ingredients.
Texture and Flavor: Chablis is a white wine made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, known for its refreshing, dry, and mineral characteristics. This wine typically showcases bright acidity with aromas of green apple, lemon, and citrus, accompanied by floral notes. The unique aspect of Chablis lies in its mineral quality, often reminiscent of flint, due to the region's specific soil composition. Overall, Chablis has a light and elegant palate, making it suitable for pairing with seafood, salads, or light white meats.
Chardonnay Texture and Flavor:
Chardonnay is an extremely versatile white wine, with flavor profiles ranging from fresh lemon and green apple to ripe tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. The acidity of Chardonnay is typically medium to high, and this wine can be light and refreshing or full-bodied and creamy, depending on the choices made during the winemaking process, such as whether oak aging is employed. Chardonnay that has undergone oak aging often has flavors of vanilla, cream, and toasty bread, adding rich layers of complexity.
2. Elegance of Roast Meats and Pinot Noir
When serving braised and roasted dishes, such as roast goose and roast meats with caramelized flavors, a bottle of Pinot Noir from Burgundy can stand out remarkably. Pinot Noir, with its elegant red berry aroma and smooth tannin structure, creates a subtle contrast with the fatty sensations of the roast dishes, resulting in a refreshing and enjoyable tasting experience.
Texture and Flavor: Pinot Noir is a light to medium-bodied red wine known for its red fruit flavors such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. This wine typically exhibits lower tannins and higher acidity, making its palate smooth and elegant. With aging, Pinot Noir may develop earthy, spicy, and subtle herbal notes, enriching the overall flavor profile.
Pen Cai paired with wine can enhance the overall dining experience, making every bite even more delicious. Since Pen Cai includes a variety of ingredients, such as seafood, meat, and vegetables, choosing the right wine can balance its rich flavors. For example, a crisp white wine can amplify the freshness of seafood, while red wine complements the rich flavors of meat. Additionally, the lively character of sparkling wine can neutralize the greasiness of Pen Cai, making the dining experience more enjoyable.
3. Rich Stews and the Softness of Aged White Wine
If rich stews or soups are added to the dish, consider choosing a well-aged white wine, such as a bottle of Pinot Gris from Alsace. These wines typically have hints of honey and nuts that can enhance the rich layers of the stew and elevate the overall complexity of the dish.
Mouthfeel and Flavor: Pinot Gris is a versatile white wine that usually exhibits bright acidity and rich fruit aromas. Its primary flavors include ripe pear, apple, peach, and lemon, possibly accompanied by floral and mineral notes. In warmer climates, Pinot Gris can show tropical fruit flavors such as pineapple and mango. This wine can be light and refreshing or full-bodied and smooth, especially after aging in oak barrels, acquiring complex flavors of cream, vanilla, and nuts.
4. The Balance of Rich Meat Flavors with Pomegranate Red Wine
For stews primarily featuring braised beef or pork belly, a fruit-forward pomegranate red wine is a great pairing, such as Shiraz from South Australia. This type of wine has a full flavor, with black pepper and floral fruit aromas, which can support the heavy meat flavors while providing an unforgettable finish.
Mouthfeel and Flavor: Shiraz is a full-bodied red wine known for its rich black fruit flavors, such as blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry. This wine typically has medium to high tannins, with a full and strong structure. The aromas of Shiraz often have spicy notes of black pepper, smoke, and chocolate, and over time, may develop complex scents of coffee and earth.
5. The Fusion of Irresistible Mushrooms and Aged Port Wine
Mushrooms, an essential ingredient in the dish, with their tender texture and rich aroma, often become a favorite among diners. To pair with mushrooms, aged Port or Sherry is quite an interesting option, with their complex layers of taste and captivating mature aromas that can beautifully complement the richness of the mushrooms.
Mouthfeel and Flavor of Aged Port:
Port is a fortified wine typically characterized by rich and complex flavors, including dried fruits, nuts, caramel, and spices. Port usually has a round and sweet mouthfeel, with younger ports focusing on bright fruit flavors, whereas with aging, they develop more complex aromas of dried fruits, tobacco, and leather.
Mouthfeel and Flavor of Sherry:
Sherry is a fortified wine from the Andalusia region of Spain, with a diverse style ranging from dry to sweet. Common flavors include nuts, dried fruits, and saline notes. Different types of Sherry, like Fino, provide a fresh experience with almond aromas, while Oloroso is richer and features complex flavors of caramel and spices. Sherry typically has good acidity, making it perform well with a variety of foods.
This festive season, enhancing your dining experience with carefully selected wines will not only enrich each dish but also fill the entire gathering with warmth and joy, celebrating reunion and happiness over exquisite food and wine! Whether it's traditional fare or innovative cuisine, the right pairings can make your festive gathering even more sumptuous!
[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.
The Perfect Pairing of Hong Kong Street Food and Craft Beer: Discover New Food Trends
The street food culture in Hong Kong has a long history, from crispy egg waffles to spicy curry fish balls, each bite carries the unique memories and flavors of this city. In recent years, with the rise of craft beer culture, a new food trend is sweeping through Hong Kong—skillfully pairing traditional street food with craft beer, creating an astonishing taste experience. This is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a way of life that blends tradition with innovation, reflecting the diversity and vitality of Hong Kong's food culture.
The Rise of Craft Beer Culture in Hong Kong
Hong Kong's beer culture has undergone tremendous changes in recent years. According to data from the Hong Kong Wine & Spirits Industry Coalition, the craft beer market in Hong Kong saw a growth rate of 15% in 2022, far exceeding the growth rate of traditional mass beer brands. This wave of excitement is attributed to the rapid development of local craft beer brands like Young Master and Gweilo, as well as the influx of international brands.
Behind this trend is the consumers' pursuit of personalized and high-quality beverages. According to a report from market research firm Statista, the average beer consumption per person in Hong Kong is about 24 liters per year, with the share of craft beer rising from 5% in 2018 to 12% in 2023. The younger generation, in particular, is eager to explore new flavors, providing fertile ground for the pairing of street food and craft beer.
As the cornerstone of Hong Kong's food culture, street food similarly possesses remarkable vitality. According to statistics from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, more than 70% of tourists say that street food is an important way for them to experience local culture. Today, this tradition is being revitalized through its combination with craft beer.
Classic Pairings of Hong Kong Street Food and Craft Beer
The pairing of street food and craft beer is an art, requiring a balance of taste, flavor, and layers. Below are 10 craft beers available in supermarkets and convenience stores in Hong Kong (such as 7-11, Circle K, and ParknShop), along with their perfect combinations with street food, based on real brands and actual experiences:
Young Master Classic Pale Ale
Pairing: Curry Fish Balls
Reason: This pale ale brings citrus and floral notes that complement the spices of curry, creating a balance of freshness and heat.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, 7-11
Gweilo Session IPA
Pairing: Egg Waffles
Reason: The light bitterness of the IPA balances the sweetness of the egg waffles, making the hot snack perfectly matched with the cold beer.
Purchase Locations: Circle K, Wellcome
Hoegaarden White
Pairing: Siu Mai
Reason: The soft taste of wheat beer complements the fresh aromas of siu mai, with flavors of clove and orange peel adding layers.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, ParknShop
BrewDog Punk IPA
Pairing: Pan-Fried Stuffed Tofu
Reason: The intense bitterness of the IPA contrasts with the oiliness of the pan-fried stuffed tofu, enhancing the overall flavor.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, Taste
Asahi Super Dry
Pairing: Fish Ball Skewers
Reason: The refreshing taste pairs well with the freshness of fish balls, simple yet delicious.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, Circle K
Hitachino Nest White Ale
Pairing: Cheung Fun
Reason: The gentle fruitiness of Japanese white ale pairs beautifully with the smoothness of cheung fun, with the soy sauce's saltiness being easily highlighted.
Purchase Locations: ParknShop, Don Don Donki
Stone IPA
Pairing: Chicken Wings
Reason: The strong hop flavor contrasts with the greasiness of the chicken wings, providing a refreshing experience.
Purchase Locations: Taste, Wellcome
Guinness Stout
Pairing: Pig's Intestine Rolls
Reason: The caramel and coffee flavors of the stout complement the rich sauce of the pig's intestine rolls.
Purchase Locations: 7-11, ParknShop
Leffe Blonde
Pairing: Beef Offal
Reason: The sweet aroma of Belgian blonde ale enhances the rich broth of the beef offal, warm and satisfying.
Purchase Locations: Circle K, Taste
Brooklyn Lager
Pairing: Fried Sesame Balls
Reason: The crispness of lager contrasts interestingly with the sweet and crunchy sesame balls, perfect for a leisurely afternoon tea time.
Purchase Locations: Wellcome, ParknShop
Historically, Hong Kong's street food originated from the working class diet of the early 20th century, simple yet full of human warmth. The craft beer, on the other hand, has emerged as a 'new luxury' in the past decade. The combination of the two retains the down-to-earth characteristics of street food while incorporating the sophistication of high-end beer culture, serving as a model of cultural integration.
The Art and Science of Pairing Beer with Street Food
The success of beer pairing is not a random combination; it is built on a deep understanding of flavors. Here are a few core principles to consider when pairing:
Complementary Principle: Similar flavors can enhance each other. For example, the caramel notes of dark beer resonate with the rich sauce of curry fish balls.
Contrast Principle: Opposing tastes can create surprises, such as the bitterness of IPA contrasting with the sweetness of egg waffles.
Balance Principle: Avoid one element overpowering another, for instance, a light wheat beer will not overshadow the freshness of siu mai.
Historically, Hong Kong’s street food originated in the working-class diets of the early 20th century, simple yet filled with warmth. Meanwhile, craft beer has only emerged as a
[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.
Hong Kong-style afternoon tea, as a unique symbol of Hong Kong's culinary culture, has always been popular with locals and tourists alike. However, with the passage of time and the elevation of tastes, traditional Hong Kong afternoon tea is quietly undergoing a revolutionary change. Recently, a trend that blends innovative cocktails with classic Hong Kong dim sum has swept the city, injecting new vitality and charm into this century-old tradition.
This "Cocktail Afternoon Tea Revolution" is not simply about adding cocktails to the afternoon tea menu, but is a deep cultural fusion and innovative attempt. It reflects Hong Kong people's respect for tradition while also showcasing an open attitude towards new things. This innovation not only enriches the content of afternoon tea but also brings new development directions to the entire beverage culture.
In this new trend, bartenders are unleashing their creativity by cleverly incorporating traditional Chinese elements into Western cocktails, creating a series of innovative cocktails unique to Hong Kong. For example, the "Dried Tangerine Peel Martini" based on dried tangerine peel not only retains the classic flavor of the martini but also adds a hint of Eastern charm. Another example is the "Milk Tea Old Fashioned," which perfectly combines the rich aroma of Hong Kong-style milk tea with the smoothness of whiskey, becoming a new favorite among many young people.
At the same time, dim sum chefs are also rising to the occasion, launching innovative dim sum that perfectly pairs with cocktails. Traditional classic Hong Kong dim sum, such as shrimp dumplings and siu mai, while retaining the original taste, have been infused with elements that enhance the flavors of the cocktails. For example, adding a touch of juniper berries to the shrimp dumplings not only adds layers of flavor but also complements cocktails based on gin.
This innovation goes beyond enjoyment on the palate; it extends into the visual and experiential realms. Many high-end hotels and restaurants have begun to launch themed cocktail afternoon teas, transforming the traditional three-tiered stand into a miniature cocktail bar, with each tier showcasing different styles of cocktails paired with dim sum. This new presentation method brings an unprecedented visual impact and tasting experience to guests.
The "Cocktail and Dim Sum" Project
The Hong Kong Lan Kwai Fong dining landmark "Fang Fang" launched an innovative "Cocktail and Dim Sum" unlimited brunch project in 2018, reconstructing Cantonese tea-drinking aesthetics with a concept of fusion between East and West. The bar team is led by international competition champion bartender Gagan Gurung, whose special Bloody Mary incorporates Southeast Asian-style spicy sauce made with curry leaves and lemongrass, creating a flavor dialogue with innovative Hong Kong dishes like bamboo charcoal black truffle wild mushroom dumplings and black caviar siu mai.
This project emphasizes the concept of "Tea and Alcohol Coexistence," combining classic dim sum craftsmanship with molecular mixology techniques. For instance, the signature "Fang Fang Shrimp Dumplings" are filled with three fresh shrimps and paired with 11-fold handmade crystal skin; the black truffle wild mushroom dumplings are wrapped in bamboo charcoal powder skin filled with mixed mushrooms and cloud ear mushrooms, complemented by the unique Tieguanyin cold brew base in the cocktail, creating a layered experience of "rich tea essence colliding with spicy alcohol body."
Credit: Weekend Weekly
In this perfect encounter of cocktails and afternoon tea, we see a harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation. The bartenders fully unleash their creativity, incorporating local specialty ingredients such as longan, lychee, and osmanthus into the cocktails, creating a series of cocktail masterpieces with Hong Kong characteristics. These cocktails not only complement the flavors of Hong Kong-style dim sum but also possess great visual appeal, becoming a hot topic on social media.
It is worth mentioning that this innovation is not limited to high-end restaurants and hotels; some local tea restaurants and street vendors have begun to try launching their own specialty cocktail afternoon tea sets. They bring this trendy phenomenon into the daily lives of ordinary citizens with more affordable prices and a more down-to-earth approach. For example, one tea restaurant has introduced a "Cocktail Milk Tea" series that cleverly combines traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea with various spirits, creating flavors that are both familiar and novel.
This innovation has not only enriched Hong Kong's food culture but also brought new opportunities to the local beverage industry. More and more local bartenders are beginning to explore how to incorporate Chinese elements into Western cocktails, and many bars are starting to collaborate with dim sum chefs to create dedicated afternoon tea cocktail menus. This cross-disciplinary collaboration not only stimulated creative collisions but also injected new vitality into Hong Kong's drinking culture.
Hong Kong-style Innovative Cocktails
Crafted with ingenuity, the "Milk Tea 9-Yeah" special cocktail reconstructs the genetic essence of Hong Kong tea drinks using unique methods. The product employs a three-step refining process: the first step uses handmade, freshly brewed secret tea soup as the base, combined with classic condensed milk to outline a creamy texture; then, it gathers traditional Eastern huadiao wine with Western Scotch single malt whiskey, complemented by the fruitiness of yellow plum brandy, calibrated repeatedly by professional bartenders to achieve a golden triangle balance system of tea aroma (42%), alcohol fragrance (33%), and creaminess (25%).
This 6.6% ABV low-alcohol specialty drink breaks the traditional boundaries of tea and alcohol, achieving molecular reconstruction of the drink body through cold brew integration technology. On entry, it exhibits a velvety smooth texture, with initial notes of bergamot and roasted tea aroma intertwining, the mid-palate releasing hints of whiskey oak barrel aging and the sweetness of huadiao, while the finish concludes with the fruit acidity of plum brandy, shaping the three layers of taste: "rich - fragrant - refreshing." The special low-sugar formula retains the signature creamy mouthfeel of Hong Kong-style milk tea but without the cloying burden of traditional milk cap drinks.
Credit: Si Fu Good Tea Tea Cocktail Series – Milk Tea
However, this innovation also faces some challenges. How to maintain the essence of tradition amidst innovation, and how to ensure that cocktails and dim sum pair in a complementary rather than overpowering manner are issues the industry needs to continually explore and improve. At the same time, ensuring that this new trend can develop sustainably, and is not just a passing fad, is also a long-term issue for the industry to contemplate.
Nevertheless, the innovative concept of "Cocktail Afternoon Tea" undoubtedly brings new possibilities to Hong Kong's culinary culture and beverage industry. It is not only an innovative extension of traditional afternoon tea culture but also a vivid manifestation of Hong Kong's continuous fusion of Eastern and Western cultures and its constant evolution.
Looking to the future, we can expect to see more surprising innovations. Perhaps one day, "Hong Kong-style Cocktail Afternoon Tea" will become a new calling card for Hong Kong to showcase its unique cultural charm to the world, alongside the Italian Aperitivo culture and Spanish Tapas culture as internationally renowned culinary cultures.
For the food and drink lovers in Hong Kong, this is undoubtedly an exciting era. Whether you are a loyal supporter of traditional afternoon tea or a passionate enthusiast of cocktails, this "Cocktail Afternoon Tea Revolution" offers you a brand-new perspective to rediscover and appreciate the food culture of this city. The next time you stroll through the streets of Hong Kong, why not step into a restaurant that offers innovative cocktail afternoon tea, personally experience this revolution of flavors, and feel the sparks created by the collision of tradition and innovation? You will surely find that in this ever-hustling city, even the most traditional afternoon tea can radiate new charm.
[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.[Reunion Dinner] Abundance of happiness, adding color to the盆菜 with wine at the reunion dinner.
The Lunar New Year is one of the most significant traditional festivals in Asia and the Chinese world, as well as a precious moment for family and friends to gather and share delicious food. As the focal point of the annual reunion dinner, each meticulously prepared festive dish not only carries hopes for the new year but also profoundly reflects human warmth and cultural depth. If a well-chosen wine can accompany these traditional dishes at the banquet, it not only enhances the entire dining experience but also brings a refined and charming atmosphere to the guests.
Why Festive Dishes Need Wine Pairing
The pairing of wine with food has always been a science as well as an art. In the reunion dinner, where traditional dishes carry cultural significance and culinary essence, seemingly traditional flavors actually offer more possibilities for wine pairing. A successful pairing can be said to be a resonance between taste buds, a perfect embodiment of integrating global wine culture into Eastern dining traditions. In fact, this is not only a means of enhancing flavor but can also add taste and layers to the banquet. The aroma and flavor of a carefully selected wine can add depth to festive dishes, and the interaction between the wine and the dishes can highlight delicate and rich layers of flavor.
Classic Examples of Festive Dishes and Wine Pairing
During the Lunar New Year, the reunion dinner is the highlight of family gatherings, and each exquisite festive dish carries blessings and expectations. Pairing these delicacies with suitable wine can not only enhance the dining experience but also add an elegant atmosphere to the entire banquet. Here are some classic festive dishes and their best wine pairings, allowing you to enjoy a richer taste experience during the Spring Festival.
1. The Irreplaceable “White Cut Chicken”
Dish Flavor Characteristics: White cut chicken is renowned for its delicate meat that is oily yet not greasy, emphasizing the original flavor of the chicken with a light yet layered taste.
Best Wine Pairing: A refreshing white wine from Chablis is the most suitable choice. Its slightly mineral taste can balance the fat of the chicken and delicately highlight its sweet and fresh flavor. The fresh acidity of Chablis is like a clear spring, perfectly melting away the richness of the meat, making each bite refreshing.
2. Aromatic “Braised Lion’s Head”
Dish Flavor Characteristics: This famous Jiangsu and Zhejiang dish is known for its rich sauce and tender meat, offering a full and mouthwatering taste.
Best Wine Pairing: It is recommended to pair it with a soft-bodied Pinot Noir. Its medium body and delicate layers can make the rich sauce of the lion's head smoother, not overpowering the main dish while providing a rich contrast on the palate. In Hong Kong, many families choose this pairing to welcome the new year and enhance the festive atmosphere.
The benefits of pairing reunion dinner with wine lie in enhancing the dining experience and adding to the festive atmosphere. The right wine can balance the rich flavors of the traditional dishes, especially the greasy ones. Sparkling wine or rosé, with their refreshing taste, can effectively neutralize the oily sensation, making each bite more palatable. Additionally, the tannins in red wine can reduce the greasiness of meat and enhance the overall flavor, allowing everyone to enjoy the wonderful time of reunion more. Choosing the right wine not only adds color to the dining table but also promotes interaction and joy among family members.
3. The "Steamed Grouper" with Abundance Every Year
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Grouper has a tender texture, usually paired with light sauces to showcase the freshness of seafood.
Best Wine Pairing: Italian Vermentino white wine is an excellent choice. Its unique citrus aroma and subtle salinity complement Asian seafood dishes well, providing a naturally rewarding acidity that makes the entire dish more vibrant.
4. Satisfying "Claypot Rice with Preserved Meats"
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Claypot rice with preserved meats is rich and oily, with an abundance of savory flavors. It features both crisp and soft textures, making it one of Hong Kong's iconic cuisines.
Best Wine Pairing: Best paired with Spanish Rosé. The fresh fruitiness of Rosé wine perfectly balances the heaviness of the preserved meats, enhancing the dish's layers. Especially those with a hint of sweetness, the Rosé elevates the crispness of the rice, making it a favorite.
5. Perfectly Sweet "Freshly Ground Almond Tea"
Dish Flavor Characteristics: Almond tea is sweet without being cloying, with a rich almond aroma, and is a common dessert during the New Year period.
Best Wine Pairing: Moscato d’Asti is an excellent dessert companion. It carries notes of honey and almond, as if tailor-made for almond tea. The slight effervescence and low alcohol content make it refreshing and pleasant, without overshadowing the main course, enriching the overall dining experience.
Wine is not just a beverage; it is a lifestyle. With the rise of social media, people increasingly enjoy sharing their dining experiences. During reunion dinners, inviting friends and family for delicate tasting exchanges not only strengthens relationships but also allows everyone to enjoy food and wine in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
