What is a Basket Cake?
Basket cake, known as Nian Gao (年糕) in Chinese, is a traditional cake made of glutinous rice and sugar. This cake has a sticky texture and is golden brown. Basket cakes are a mandatory dish in Chinese New Year celebrations and have many symbolic meanings. 1,2,3
History of Basket Cake
The history of basket cakes dates back centuries in China. Its origin is still debated, but some theories say that this cake was first made during the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC). At that time, basket cakes were used as offerings to ancestors and the gods.1,2,3
Basket Cake Philosophy
Basket cakes have many symbolic meanings in Chinese New Year traditions. Here are some examples:1,2,3
- Luck and Prosperity: The word "Nian Gao" in Chinese has a pronunciation similar to "getting higher year by year". Therefore, basket cakes are symbolized as a wish for increasing luck and prosperity in the new year.
- Family Bonding and Unity: The round shape of the basket cake symbolizes family unity and wholeness. The tradition of eating basket cakes with family during Chinese New Year is expected to strengthen relationships and a sense of family.
- Persistence and Perseverance: The process of making basket cakes that takes a long time and perseverance symbolizes the hope to have an unyielding spirit in facing challenges in the new year.
- Abundant Luck and Sustenance: The chocolate color on the basket cake symbolizes the land, which is the source of life and sustenance. Therefore, basket cakes are believed to bring good luck and abundant sustenance to those who eat them.
- Success and Promotion: The sticky texture of the basket cake symbolizes the hope of achieving success and improvement in career or position.
Basket cakes are not only a delicious and symbolic dish, but also an important part of the traditions and culture of the Chinese people. This cake is a reminder of important values such as family, perseverance, and optimism in welcoming the new year.
Reference:
1. Compass Staff ; The History of Chinese New Year Basket Cakes and the meaning behind them, January 21, 2023, Kompas.com.
2. Princess Annisa; History and Meaning of Basket Cake, Chinese New Year Specialty, January 20, 2023, Liputan6.
3. Widhia Arum ; get to know the meaning of basket cakes in Chinese New Year celebrations and their history, January 20, 2023, detikNews.
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