To welcome the Year of the Ox, millions of dumplings are consumed at dining tables in China today. In northern China, in particular, jiaozi is simply part of the New Year. Since their shape resembles small gold bars used as currency in imperial times, they promise good luck and prosperity. Especially when you find the one coin hidden in a dumpling during the traditional New Year feast. Apart from small change, the dumplings are filled with anything that tastes good: pork, shrimp, Chinese leek, beef or mutton, fried egg, carrots, eggplant, fennel greens and shepherd’s purse are also popular. Even jiaozi with cheese or chocolate filling can be found. When the whole family gets involved, the jiaozi production is at least as much fun as the food itself. Why don’t you give it a try? Chef Yuhang Wu provides the recipe.