This is from here - just click !quote
Millions of Chinese have returned home, or are still trying to get there on time. Author Zhang Lijia feels guilty she did not make it to Nanjing this year, yet again, she tells on her website. But she is happy for those who did.
Zhang Lijia:
Some got lucky. In Shanghai, quite a few large factories hired coaches to drive people home and drop them. Thanks to labour shortage in Shanghai and also coastal areas such as Shenzhen, factories have tried harder than ever in accommodating and helping the workers in the hope of retaining them. Some factories offer them iphones or other bonus to allure the workers back.
The migrant workers live separate lives from the urban population. The Spring Festival is the time the city people realize the importance of their poor rural cousins. In my neighborhood – where many migrant labours congregate – is rather quiet right now.
A lot of breakfast stalls disappeared, restaurant, shops and news stands closed. No one came to deliver the milk or water; and no one collected rubbish. Many domestic helpers have also gone home, leaving many families struggle with their daily grinding. Migrant workers have effectively taken over the service industries in the city. They are the unsung heroes of our society.
My helper Xiao Yu has also gone her home in Sichuan, by taking the train for 29 hours without a seat. I’ve told her to take her time as I’d like her to spend decent time with her family.
I watched the news and felt guilty. Ever since I left home in the end of 1990, I have only gone back four times for the Spring Festival. I find the overwhelming crowds off-putting: anywhere you go, it is infested by thongs of people. And my family has never pressured me. If I bothered to try, it wouldn’t be too hard – wouldn’t be hard as Xiao Yu’s 29 hour seatless train. I’ve called home and promised to be there next year.
More at Zhang Lijia's weblog.
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Showing posts with label Chinese New Year. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chinese New Year. Show all posts
Monday, January 23, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
Signs of 2012
This is a rather long one with all signs explanations & forecast for 2012 - the year of the DRAGON:
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THE CHINESE calendar has a 12-year cycle and each year is named after an animal. People born in each of these years are said to have certain characteristics. The animal is believed to be the main factor in each person’s life that gives them their traits, success, and happiness in their lifetime.
Secret Friend: Rooster
Allies: Rat and Monkey
Enemy: Dog
Best Months: May, July and September
Bad Months: March, June, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Magnanimous, stately, vigorous, strong, self-assured, proud, noble, direct, dignified, zealous, eccentric, intellectual, fiery, passionate, decisive, pioneering, ambitious, artistic, generous, and loyal. Can be tactless, arrogant, imperious, tyrannical, demanding, intolerant, dogmatic, violent, impetuous, and brash.
Geomancer Joseph Chau said people born in the year of the Dragon will not be that lucky in 2012, because they are offending the Grand Duke (Tai Suey Pang Tai or the ruling god) of the year.
“This will usher in inauspicious and difficult periods from time to time throughout the year, so they should think before they act,” Mr. Chau said.
He said career luck for the dragons is tough and slow in 2012. “They have to keep a low profile, they have to be patient, and they have to do their best to keep good relationships. They should avoid involving themselves to office politics,” he said.
Financially, Mr. Chau said 2012 is not the year to invest for the dragons. “Money is ‘easy come, easy go’ for the dragons. They have to cut down their expenditures and try their best to save money,” Mr. Chau said.
Feng shui expert Marites Allen said financial luck is more favorable for the Wood Dragon (who is 48 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Dragon (who is 36 years old).
Mr. Chau said Dragons are also not fortunate with the affairs of the heart in 2012. “Lovers should be patient with each other to maintain mutual understanding. They must be careful in their relationships to avoid any conflict,” he said.
Healthwise, he said Dragons should pay special attention to road safety. They should also be careful in handling sharp objects. “Beware of spleen, gall bladder, and stomach problems,” he said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Dragon (who is 24 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Dragon (who is 48 years old).
Secret Friend: Monkey
Allies: Ox and Rooster
Enemy: Pig
Best Months: May, July, and September
Bad Months: April, August, and January 2013
Zodiac’s Nature: A deep thinker, wise, mystic, graceful, soft-spoken, sensual, creative, prudent, shrewd, ambitious, elegant, cautious, responsible, calm, strong, constant, and purposeful. Can be a loner, a bad communicator, possessive, hedonistic, self-doubting, distrustful, mendacious, suffocating, and cold.
Mr. Chau said the fortune of the Snake would be much improved, especially with the presence of their lucky stars in 2012.
“Career development is quite smooth and this is the right time for business expansion. In the process however, they have to keep good relationships with people to avoid isolating themselves,” Mr. Chau said.
Ms. Allen said Snakes should look forward to unique opportunities that will come their way despite a lackluster 2012 for them. However, she said things might not come easy to the Snake-born this year.
Mr. Chau said money luck for Snakes is steady in 2012, for as long as they do not end up being too greedy.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Snake (who is 47), and least favorable for the Fire Snake (who is 35).
He said the Snake-born people could expect their love lives to blossom into a permanent relationship in 2012. “Single Snakes can easily ‘hit-off’ with the opposite gender and bear fruits of love, and end up getting married,” he said.
The presence of the “Illness Star” signifies that Snakes will easily get sick in 2012. “They have to pay special attention to their lungs and respiratory system,” Mr. Chau said.
“They should also avoid dangerous water sports, and pregnant women should beware of miscarriage and gynecological problems,” he added.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Snake (who is 23 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Snake (47 years old).
Secret Friend: Sheep
Allies: Tiger and Dog
Enemy: Rat
Best Months: May, October, and December
Bad Months: April, June, and September
Zodiac’s Nature: Cheerful, popular, quick-witted, changeable, earthy, perceptive, talkative, agile both mentally and physically, magnetic, intelligent, astute, flexible, and open-minded. Can be fickle, arrogant, childish, anxious, rude, gullible, and stubborn.
Ms. Allen said 2012 is “a fabulous year with fresh opportunities” for those born under the sign of the Horse, with “victory luck” helping them succeed in competitive situations.
Mr. Chau said the Horses benefit from the “Noble Star” which shines brightly on them in 2012. “With conservative work, Horses can yield twice the result with half the effort,” he said.
In terms of finance, Ms. Allen said luck is fairly good for all Horse-born except for the Wood Horse (who is 58).
Mr. Chau said the finances of Horses would be good and optimistic in 2012.
“Money comes from all sources and it never ends. However, they have to be highly alert of their fair-weather friends. Otherwise, they will easily fall into a money trap,” he said.
For affairs of the heart, Mr. Chau said Horses would experience “dull and depressed” love lives due to the influence of the “Lonely Star.”
“Lovers will experience communication gaps and misunderstanding. Apart from this, they should stay away from temptation, and should not give any third party [the chance] to intervene in their love affairs,” he said.
On health, Mr. Chau said Horses would have the possibility of undergoing an operation this year. They should also pay special attention to road safety, as well as diseases related to the liver and the lungs.
“It is important that they should not go to funerals and attend wakes during the whole year,” he said.
Secret Friend: Horse
Allies: Rabbit and Boar
Best Months: April, May, and December
Bad Months: August, October, and November
Enemy: Ox
Zodiac’s Nature: Righteous, sincere, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, artistic, creative, gentle, compassionate, understanding, mothering, determined, peaceful, generous, and seeks security. Can be moody, indecisive, over-possessive, a worrier, pessimistic, over-sensitive, a complainer, and weak-willed.
It will be a lucky year in terms of wealth and career for those born under the sign of the Sheep, Mr. Chau said.
“They will be blessed by the ‘Grace Star’ this year and it will be lucky for them to explore and market their business overseas,” he said. If they can take advantage of the chance, he said they would gain more wealth, fame, and authority abroad, than in the local market.
“This year will be especially lucky for singers, entertainers, and business traders. It is also lucky for the Sheep-born to study abroad or migrate,” he said.
He however advised Sheep-born people to stay away from gossip and rumors by being careful with their words.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Sheep (who is 57), and least favorable for the Fire Sheep (who is 45).
Mr. Chau said they should try their best to save money for rainy days. They should also be “extremely careful” when signing contracts.
Meanwhile, the Sheep’s love life is “satisfying and desirable.” “However, they should have to stay away from extramarital affairs, or they might have the possibility of falling into love traps,” he said.
On health, Mr. Chau said Sheep should pay attention to road safety, as well as possible heart, liver, and lung problems. “It is important that they should avoid going to funerals or attending wakes within the year,” Mr. Chau said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Water Sheep (who is 69), and least favorable for the Earth Sheep (who is 33).
Secret Friend: Snake
Allies: Dragon and Rat
Enemy: Tiger
Best Months: March, May, and June
Bad Months: February, August, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: An inventor, motivator, improviser, quick-witted, inquisitive, flexible, innovative, a problem solver, self-assured, sociable, artistic, polite, dignified, competitive, factual, and intellectual. Can be egotistical, vain, selfish, reckless, snobbish, deceptive, manipulative, cunning, jealous, and suspicious.
Mr. Chau said 2012 is not a favorable year for Monkeys, so they have the tendency to get into trouble and problems, especially related to business ventures, rumors, and court cases.
“They should especially avoid lawsuits and be law-abiding,” Mr. Chau said. “Luckily, there is a lucky star shining brightly. It helps the Monkeys cut the Gordian knot. However, only constant humility and hard work will bring success to the Monkeys.”
Ms. Allen sees “impressive personal chi” which helps those born under the sign of the Monkey to go after their goals. “Wealth and success luck are with them this year,” she said.
However, Mr. Chau said Monkeys should be alert for pickpockets and robbers when travelling.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Monkey (who is 68), and least favorable for the Fire Monkey (56)
Meanwhile, Mr. Chau said that when it comes to love, Monkey’s might easily fall into melancholy in 2012. “So they should avoid over-thinking their love affairs. Otherwise they might have the tendency to be trapped in a mental problem,” he warned.
Monkeys are advised to diet and pay attention to their hygiene to stay healthy in 2012. Mr. Chau said it is important that they should not eat too much oily food. They should also take care of their lungs, intestines, and stomach.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Metal Monkey (32), and least favorable for the Fire Monkey (56).
Secret Friend: Dragon
Allies: Ox and Snake
Enemy: Rabbit
Best Months: March, July, and October
Bad Months: April, November, and January 2013
Zodiac’s Nature: Acute, neat, meticulous, organized, self-assured, decisive, conservative, critical, a perfectionist, alert, zealous, practical, scientific, and responsible. Can be overzealous and critical, puritanical, egotistical, abrasive, opinionated, and given to empty bravado.
If the Rooster was the most inauspicious sign for 2011, both Mr. Chau and Ms. Allen agree that this year it is the luckiest.
Being the secret friend of the Dragon, the Rooster-born will have a relatively smooth and trouble-free year, Ms. Allen said.
“Both personal and professional pursuits are satisfying. Finances will go well, with a possible windfall of some kind,” she explained.
Mr. Chau said “change” is a must for Roosters in 2012. “They have to look for new jobs, new markets, and new directions to explore for their business. They should be ready for sudden changes, and try their best to cope with it,” he said.
“On the other hand, they have to make good friendships with people, so that they are able to work efficiently to achieve their target easily,” he added.
Financially, Roosters are expected to have stable incomes in 2012, Mr. Chau said. “But they should try their best to save their money for a rainy day,” he said.
He added that Roosters will have many chances to enter joint ventures, but they should be careful in signing contracts to avoid money traps.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Rooster (67), and least favorable for the Fire Rooster (55).
When it comes to love, Mr. Chau said 2012 will be a very romantic year for Roosters. “They are so attractive and popular in social gatherings, and they can easily [make a] good impression [on] the opposite gender,” he said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Metal Rooster (31 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rooster (55 years old).
“Roosters should have enough rest, beware of limb injury, and avoid going to funeral and attending wakes,” Mr. Chau said.
Secret Friend: Rabbit
Allies: Tiger and Horse
Enemy: Dragon
Best Months: February, July, and September
Bad Months: March, June, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Honest, intelligent, straightforward, loyal, has a sense of justice and fair play, attractive, amiable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded, idealistic, moralistic, practical, affectionate, sensitive, and easy going. Can be cynical, lazy, cold, judgmental, pessimistic, a worrier, stubborn, and quarrelsome.
“2012 is a year to be careful because of the presence of harmful stars in your chart,” Ms. Allen advised those born under the sign of the Dog. “Get your timing right for any major activity,” she added.
Mr. Chau said Dogs are directly clashing with the Dragon this year, causing their luck to fluctuate from time to time.
“Fortunately, the existence of the lucky star Yuet Hung can help neutralize the negative forces and release half of the bad luck influence from the unlucky stars,” he said.
Career-wise, the road forward is uncertain for Dogs, Mr. Chau said. “This is not the ideal year for Dogs to change jobs or to expand businesses. It is safe to stay extra vigilant, and they should beware of backstabbing and lawsuits,” he said.
Financially, Mr. Chau said it is a “fluctuating” year for Dogs. He advised those born under the sign to be very careful in handling their money. “It is best to broaden the sources of income, and reduce the unnecessary expenditures,” he said.
Mr. Chau said Dogs should not be credit guarantors for others “or they will suffer in the months to come.”
“On the other hand, they should keep from borrowing money to avoid court cases,” he added.
Ms. Allen said finance luck is most favorable for the Wood Dog (78 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Dog (66 years old).
Meanwhile, health luck is most favorable for the Earth Dog (54 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Dog (78 years old).
Mr. Chau said the Dogs should have enough rest to avoid exhaustion. “Keep away from sharp objects, be conscious of road safety, and beware of industrial accidents,” he said.
“On the other hand, they have to watch their diet, and their digestive system,” he added.
Secret Friend: Tiger
Allies: Rabbit and Sheep
Enemy: Snake
Best Months: February, August, and September
Bad Month: March, June, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Honest, gallant, sturdy, sociable, peace-loving, patient, loyal, hardworking, trusting, sincere, calm, understanding, thoughtful, scrupulous, passionate, and intelligent. Can be naïve, over-reliant, self-indulgent, gullible, fatalistic, and materialistic.
It is a prosperous year for the Boars and it will be smooth-sailing beyond expectations, Mr. Chau said. “Their career luck and business luck are stable, and they will be able to reach their target,” he said. “They will get guidance from their eminent friends, so they will turn disaster into positive events.”
However, Ms. Allen warned that Boars will be likely susceptible to possible robbery, money loss, or betrayal. “Make sure to get your timing right, and keep yourself strong and protected,” she said. “But your other star combinations bring success luck,” she added.
In money affairs, Mr. Chau said Boars would have a “pretty good year.”
“It is bitter first, and sweet later,” he explained.
He said Boars would have many opportunities to change jobs or have another better prospects in their careers, so he advised them to treasure their luck, and “strike while the iron is hot.”
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Boar (77 and 17 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Boar (65 years old).
On love and romance, Mr. Chau said 2012 is the romantic year for Boars. “They will enjoy a harmonious relationship with those around them this year, but they should keep away from temptation, and beware of intruders,” he said.
Regarding health matters, Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Boar (53 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Boar (77 and 17 years old).
Mr. Chau said Pigs must pay attention to their diet to protect their kidneys and digestive systems.
Secret Friend: Ox
Allies: Dragon and Monkey
Enemy: Horse
Best Months: February, April, and December
Bad Months: May, July, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Forthright, tenacious, systematic, meticulous, charismatic, sensitive, hardworking, industrious, charming, eloquent, sociable, artistic, and shrewd. Can be manipulative, vindictive, mendacious, venal, selfish, obstinate, critical, over-ambitious, ruthless, intolerant, and scheming.
Ms. Allen said 2012 is a “mixed year” for the Rat, with favorable career and finances, while experiencing challenges regarding health and romance.
“The Rats should focus on mentally challenging activities rather than doing the party scene,” she advised.
Mr. Chau said opportunities would be knocking on their doors if Rats watch out for what they say, and stay away from jealousy, rumors and personal disputes.
“If they can take advantage of the chances, they can yield twice the result with half the effort,” he said.
Ms. Allen said financial luck would be most favorable for the Wood Rat (28 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rat (76 years old).
Rats will have a steady income of profits from other sources, Mr. Chau said. “Things go smoothly and they will have chances to change jobs and exhibit their talents. However, they have to remember the Chinese motto that says: ‘Too greedy will become poor’ if they want to succeed in 2012,” he explained.
He said the love life of Rats is a flat line in 2012, as they face many obstacles and problems that will cause disputes with their partners. “Therefore, lovers must try to understand and forgive each other,” he said.
Ms. Allen said the health of those born under the sign of the Rat may not be at its best in 2012, so they are advised to adjust to a less demanding schedule.
“Stress brings tension, but allies are there [to come] to the rescue,” Ms. Allen said.
Health luck is most favorable for the Water Rat (40 years old), and least favorable for the Earth Rat (64 years old).
Secret Friend: Rat
Allies: Snake and Rooster
Enemy: Sheep
Best Months: February, April, August, and September
Bad Month: May, July, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Dependable, calm, methodical, a born leader, patient, hardworking, ambitious, conventional, steady, modest, logical, resolute, and tenacious. Can be stubborn, narrow-minded, materialistic, rigid, and demanding.
Ms. Allen said the presence of the “Multiplying Star” magnifies both the good and the bad fortunes of those born under the sign of the Ox.
“This means that this year may be tougher than last year, but when things go well, they will go very well,” she explained.
Because of this, she advised the Oxen to plan their major activities on their good months.
Mr. Chau said 2012 is a lucky year for Oxen in business, and they will have better prospects in finance. “However they should not be moody or swell-headed. Otherwise, they will suffer a big defeat by their competitors,” he warned.
Financially, the Oxen are expected to be quite fortunate this year because they will have a steady stream of income from different sources. Mr. Chau said it is the ideal time for Oxen to invest or purchase properties, for as long as they keep a low profile so as not to attract theft.
“It is important that they should avoid lending money to others or they should not expect that it will be paid back,” he said.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Ox (27 years old), and Water Ox (39 years old). Financial luck is least favorable for the Fire Ox (75 years old).
On love and romance, Mr. Chau said Oxen would experience stable love lives. However, they should not indulge in late-night parties or suffer love traps along the way. He added that male Oxen will have a better year than their female counterparts.
On health, Mr. Chau said Oxen should take care of their blood circulation, lungs, and heart.
Health luck is most favorable for the Water Ox (39 years old), and least favorable for the Earth Ox (63 years old).
Secret Friend: Boar
Allies: Horse and Dog
Enemy: Monkey
Best Months: February, September, and October
Bad Month: March, May, and August
Zodiac’s Nature: Unpredictable, rebellious, colorful, powerful, passionate, daring, impulsive, vigorous, stimulating, sincere, affectionate, a humanitarian, and generous. Can be restless, reckless, impatient, quick-tempered, obstinate, selfish, and aggressive.
“This is a tough and busy year for Tigers,” Mr. Chau said. “They have to work very hard to survive in business, otherwise they will become a loser... So, the busier they are, the better prospects they will have.”
Ms. Allen said Tigers should be mindful of the “Annual Conflict Star,” and must chose auspicious months for important events.
She added that those born under the sign of the Tiger have a “Multiplying Star” this year, which means that both the good and the bad luck get doubled.
Mr. Chau advises Tigers to be more conservative in handling their finances, since a slight mistake might cause them to lose a lot of money.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Tiger (38 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Tiger (26 years old).
Health luck is most favorable for the Metal Tiger (62 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Tiger (26 years old).
“Try to avoid participating in dangerous sports and be aware of road safety,” Mr. Chau said. “In the same manner, they should not neglect the health of their eldest member of the family,” he added.
On love affairs, the romantic star of the Tigers is weak in 2012, Mr. Chau said. “It is full of complications, and love life will definitely not be smooth,” he said. “Reward is little compared to huge effort paid. So, they should not expect too much or they would be deeply disappointed. Lovers should try not to be rigid and try to improve their communication skills,” he added.
Secret Friend: Dog
Allies: Sheep and Boar
Enemy: Rooster
Best month: April, May, June, and August
Bad Months: March, September, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Gracious, a good friend, kind, sensitive, soft-spoken, amiable, elegant, reserved, cautious, artistic, thorough, tender, self-assured, astute, compassionate, and flexible. Can be moody, detached, superficial, self-indulgent, opportunistic, and stubborn.
Both Ms. Allen and Mr. Chau said Rabbits will have a very good year, with significant improvements over last year.
“Career luck is promising and they will be able to change their bad luck into good fortune,” Mr. Chau said.
However, he warned Rabbits from being too talkative. “Try to be alert [about] people and their hidden enemy. They have to remember the Chinese saying: ‘Sickness comes in through the mouth, and troubles come out from the mouth,’ if they want to succeed in 2012,” he said.
Ms. Allen said the relationships of those born under the Rabbit sign would go well.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Rabbit (37 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rabbit (25 years old).
Mr. Chau said Rabbits will have money luck in 2012, but they have to prevent problems that could be created from wealth. “It is important that they should not be greedy or take shameful profit or they will put themselves into jeopardizing situations,” Mr. Chau explained.
On love affairs, Mr. Chau said Rabbits would find it easy to get into romantic involvements with the opposite gender. However, he said they should keep away from temptations and one-night stands, or fall into serious troubles that they will regret later.
Ms. Allen said health luck is generally good, allowing Rabbits to fight stress and work pressures. Health luck is most favorable for the Metal Rabbit (61 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rabbit (25 years old).
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THE CHINESE calendar has a 12-year cycle and each year is named after an animal. People born in each of these years are said to have certain characteristics. The animal is believed to be the main factor in each person’s life that gives them their traits, success, and happiness in their lifetime.
Dragon
1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012Secret Friend: Rooster
Allies: Rat and Monkey
Enemy: Dog
Best Months: May, July and September
Bad Months: March, June, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Magnanimous, stately, vigorous, strong, self-assured, proud, noble, direct, dignified, zealous, eccentric, intellectual, fiery, passionate, decisive, pioneering, ambitious, artistic, generous, and loyal. Can be tactless, arrogant, imperious, tyrannical, demanding, intolerant, dogmatic, violent, impetuous, and brash.
Geomancer Joseph Chau said people born in the year of the Dragon will not be that lucky in 2012, because they are offending the Grand Duke (Tai Suey Pang Tai or the ruling god) of the year.
“This will usher in inauspicious and difficult periods from time to time throughout the year, so they should think before they act,” Mr. Chau said.
He said career luck for the dragons is tough and slow in 2012. “They have to keep a low profile, they have to be patient, and they have to do their best to keep good relationships. They should avoid involving themselves to office politics,” he said.
Financially, Mr. Chau said 2012 is not the year to invest for the dragons. “Money is ‘easy come, easy go’ for the dragons. They have to cut down their expenditures and try their best to save money,” Mr. Chau said.
Feng shui expert Marites Allen said financial luck is more favorable for the Wood Dragon (who is 48 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Dragon (who is 36 years old).
Mr. Chau said Dragons are also not fortunate with the affairs of the heart in 2012. “Lovers should be patient with each other to maintain mutual understanding. They must be careful in their relationships to avoid any conflict,” he said.
Healthwise, he said Dragons should pay special attention to road safety. They should also be careful in handling sharp objects. “Beware of spleen, gall bladder, and stomach problems,” he said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Dragon (who is 24 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Dragon (who is 48 years old).
Snake
1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001Secret Friend: Monkey
Allies: Ox and Rooster
Enemy: Pig
Best Months: May, July, and September
Bad Months: April, August, and January 2013
Zodiac’s Nature: A deep thinker, wise, mystic, graceful, soft-spoken, sensual, creative, prudent, shrewd, ambitious, elegant, cautious, responsible, calm, strong, constant, and purposeful. Can be a loner, a bad communicator, possessive, hedonistic, self-doubting, distrustful, mendacious, suffocating, and cold.
Mr. Chau said the fortune of the Snake would be much improved, especially with the presence of their lucky stars in 2012.
“Career development is quite smooth and this is the right time for business expansion. In the process however, they have to keep good relationships with people to avoid isolating themselves,” Mr. Chau said.
Ms. Allen said Snakes should look forward to unique opportunities that will come their way despite a lackluster 2012 for them. However, she said things might not come easy to the Snake-born this year.
Mr. Chau said money luck for Snakes is steady in 2012, for as long as they do not end up being too greedy.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Snake (who is 47), and least favorable for the Fire Snake (who is 35).
He said the Snake-born people could expect their love lives to blossom into a permanent relationship in 2012. “Single Snakes can easily ‘hit-off’ with the opposite gender and bear fruits of love, and end up getting married,” he said.
The presence of the “Illness Star” signifies that Snakes will easily get sick in 2012. “They have to pay special attention to their lungs and respiratory system,” Mr. Chau said.
“They should also avoid dangerous water sports, and pregnant women should beware of miscarriage and gynecological problems,” he added.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Snake (who is 23 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Snake (47 years old).
Horse
1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002Secret Friend: Sheep
Allies: Tiger and Dog
Enemy: Rat
Best Months: May, October, and December
Bad Months: April, June, and September
Zodiac’s Nature: Cheerful, popular, quick-witted, changeable, earthy, perceptive, talkative, agile both mentally and physically, magnetic, intelligent, astute, flexible, and open-minded. Can be fickle, arrogant, childish, anxious, rude, gullible, and stubborn.
Ms. Allen said 2012 is “a fabulous year with fresh opportunities” for those born under the sign of the Horse, with “victory luck” helping them succeed in competitive situations.
Mr. Chau said the Horses benefit from the “Noble Star” which shines brightly on them in 2012. “With conservative work, Horses can yield twice the result with half the effort,” he said.
In terms of finance, Ms. Allen said luck is fairly good for all Horse-born except for the Wood Horse (who is 58).
Mr. Chau said the finances of Horses would be good and optimistic in 2012.
“Money comes from all sources and it never ends. However, they have to be highly alert of their fair-weather friends. Otherwise, they will easily fall into a money trap,” he said.
For affairs of the heart, Mr. Chau said Horses would experience “dull and depressed” love lives due to the influence of the “Lonely Star.”
“Lovers will experience communication gaps and misunderstanding. Apart from this, they should stay away from temptation, and should not give any third party [the chance] to intervene in their love affairs,” he said.
On health, Mr. Chau said Horses would have the possibility of undergoing an operation this year. They should also pay special attention to road safety, as well as diseases related to the liver and the lungs.
“It is important that they should not go to funerals and attend wakes during the whole year,” he said.
Sheep (or Goat)
1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991Secret Friend: Horse
Allies: Rabbit and Boar
Best Months: April, May, and December
Bad Months: August, October, and November
Enemy: Ox
Zodiac’s Nature: Righteous, sincere, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, artistic, creative, gentle, compassionate, understanding, mothering, determined, peaceful, generous, and seeks security. Can be moody, indecisive, over-possessive, a worrier, pessimistic, over-sensitive, a complainer, and weak-willed.
It will be a lucky year in terms of wealth and career for those born under the sign of the Sheep, Mr. Chau said.
“They will be blessed by the ‘Grace Star’ this year and it will be lucky for them to explore and market their business overseas,” he said. If they can take advantage of the chance, he said they would gain more wealth, fame, and authority abroad, than in the local market.
“This year will be especially lucky for singers, entertainers, and business traders. It is also lucky for the Sheep-born to study abroad or migrate,” he said.
He however advised Sheep-born people to stay away from gossip and rumors by being careful with their words.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Sheep (who is 57), and least favorable for the Fire Sheep (who is 45).
Mr. Chau said they should try their best to save money for rainy days. They should also be “extremely careful” when signing contracts.
Meanwhile, the Sheep’s love life is “satisfying and desirable.” “However, they should have to stay away from extramarital affairs, or they might have the possibility of falling into love traps,” he said.
On health, Mr. Chau said Sheep should pay attention to road safety, as well as possible heart, liver, and lung problems. “It is important that they should avoid going to funerals or attending wakes within the year,” Mr. Chau said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Water Sheep (who is 69), and least favorable for the Earth Sheep (who is 33).
Monkey
1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004Secret Friend: Snake
Allies: Dragon and Rat
Enemy: Tiger
Best Months: March, May, and June
Bad Months: February, August, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: An inventor, motivator, improviser, quick-witted, inquisitive, flexible, innovative, a problem solver, self-assured, sociable, artistic, polite, dignified, competitive, factual, and intellectual. Can be egotistical, vain, selfish, reckless, snobbish, deceptive, manipulative, cunning, jealous, and suspicious.
Mr. Chau said 2012 is not a favorable year for Monkeys, so they have the tendency to get into trouble and problems, especially related to business ventures, rumors, and court cases.
“They should especially avoid lawsuits and be law-abiding,” Mr. Chau said. “Luckily, there is a lucky star shining brightly. It helps the Monkeys cut the Gordian knot. However, only constant humility and hard work will bring success to the Monkeys.”
Ms. Allen sees “impressive personal chi” which helps those born under the sign of the Monkey to go after their goals. “Wealth and success luck are with them this year,” she said.
However, Mr. Chau said Monkeys should be alert for pickpockets and robbers when travelling.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Monkey (who is 68), and least favorable for the Fire Monkey (56)
Meanwhile, Mr. Chau said that when it comes to love, Monkey’s might easily fall into melancholy in 2012. “So they should avoid over-thinking their love affairs. Otherwise they might have the tendency to be trapped in a mental problem,” he warned.
Monkeys are advised to diet and pay attention to their hygiene to stay healthy in 2012. Mr. Chau said it is important that they should not eat too much oily food. They should also take care of their lungs, intestines, and stomach.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Metal Monkey (32), and least favorable for the Fire Monkey (56).
Rooster
1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005Secret Friend: Dragon
Allies: Ox and Snake
Enemy: Rabbit
Best Months: March, July, and October
Bad Months: April, November, and January 2013
Zodiac’s Nature: Acute, neat, meticulous, organized, self-assured, decisive, conservative, critical, a perfectionist, alert, zealous, practical, scientific, and responsible. Can be overzealous and critical, puritanical, egotistical, abrasive, opinionated, and given to empty bravado.
If the Rooster was the most inauspicious sign for 2011, both Mr. Chau and Ms. Allen agree that this year it is the luckiest.
Being the secret friend of the Dragon, the Rooster-born will have a relatively smooth and trouble-free year, Ms. Allen said.
“Both personal and professional pursuits are satisfying. Finances will go well, with a possible windfall of some kind,” she explained.
Mr. Chau said “change” is a must for Roosters in 2012. “They have to look for new jobs, new markets, and new directions to explore for their business. They should be ready for sudden changes, and try their best to cope with it,” he said.
“On the other hand, they have to make good friendships with people, so that they are able to work efficiently to achieve their target easily,” he added.
Financially, Roosters are expected to have stable incomes in 2012, Mr. Chau said. “But they should try their best to save their money for a rainy day,” he said.
He added that Roosters will have many chances to enter joint ventures, but they should be careful in signing contracts to avoid money traps.
Ms. Allen said financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Rooster (67), and least favorable for the Fire Rooster (55).
When it comes to love, Mr. Chau said 2012 will be a very romantic year for Roosters. “They are so attractive and popular in social gatherings, and they can easily [make a] good impression [on] the opposite gender,” he said.
Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Metal Rooster (31 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rooster (55 years old).
“Roosters should have enough rest, beware of limb injury, and avoid going to funeral and attending wakes,” Mr. Chau said.
Dog
1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006Secret Friend: Rabbit
Allies: Tiger and Horse
Enemy: Dragon
Best Months: February, July, and September
Bad Months: March, June, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Honest, intelligent, straightforward, loyal, has a sense of justice and fair play, attractive, amiable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded, idealistic, moralistic, practical, affectionate, sensitive, and easy going. Can be cynical, lazy, cold, judgmental, pessimistic, a worrier, stubborn, and quarrelsome.
“2012 is a year to be careful because of the presence of harmful stars in your chart,” Ms. Allen advised those born under the sign of the Dog. “Get your timing right for any major activity,” she added.
Mr. Chau said Dogs are directly clashing with the Dragon this year, causing their luck to fluctuate from time to time.
“Fortunately, the existence of the lucky star Yuet Hung can help neutralize the negative forces and release half of the bad luck influence from the unlucky stars,” he said.
Career-wise, the road forward is uncertain for Dogs, Mr. Chau said. “This is not the ideal year for Dogs to change jobs or to expand businesses. It is safe to stay extra vigilant, and they should beware of backstabbing and lawsuits,” he said.
Financially, Mr. Chau said it is a “fluctuating” year for Dogs. He advised those born under the sign to be very careful in handling their money. “It is best to broaden the sources of income, and reduce the unnecessary expenditures,” he said.
Mr. Chau said Dogs should not be credit guarantors for others “or they will suffer in the months to come.”
“On the other hand, they should keep from borrowing money to avoid court cases,” he added.
Ms. Allen said finance luck is most favorable for the Wood Dog (78 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Dog (66 years old).
Meanwhile, health luck is most favorable for the Earth Dog (54 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Dog (78 years old).
Mr. Chau said the Dogs should have enough rest to avoid exhaustion. “Keep away from sharp objects, be conscious of road safety, and beware of industrial accidents,” he said.
“On the other hand, they have to watch their diet, and their digestive system,” he added.
Boar (or Pig)
1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007Secret Friend: Tiger
Allies: Rabbit and Sheep
Enemy: Snake
Best Months: February, August, and September
Bad Month: March, June, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Honest, gallant, sturdy, sociable, peace-loving, patient, loyal, hardworking, trusting, sincere, calm, understanding, thoughtful, scrupulous, passionate, and intelligent. Can be naïve, over-reliant, self-indulgent, gullible, fatalistic, and materialistic.
It is a prosperous year for the Boars and it will be smooth-sailing beyond expectations, Mr. Chau said. “Their career luck and business luck are stable, and they will be able to reach their target,” he said. “They will get guidance from their eminent friends, so they will turn disaster into positive events.”
However, Ms. Allen warned that Boars will be likely susceptible to possible robbery, money loss, or betrayal. “Make sure to get your timing right, and keep yourself strong and protected,” she said. “But your other star combinations bring success luck,” she added.
In money affairs, Mr. Chau said Boars would have a “pretty good year.”
“It is bitter first, and sweet later,” he explained.
He said Boars would have many opportunities to change jobs or have another better prospects in their careers, so he advised them to treasure their luck, and “strike while the iron is hot.”
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Boar (77 and 17 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Boar (65 years old).
On love and romance, Mr. Chau said 2012 is the romantic year for Boars. “They will enjoy a harmonious relationship with those around them this year, but they should keep away from temptation, and beware of intruders,” he said.
Regarding health matters, Ms. Allen said health luck is most favorable for the Earth Boar (53 years old), and least favorable for the Wood Boar (77 and 17 years old).
Mr. Chau said Pigs must pay attention to their diet to protect their kidneys and digestive systems.
Rat
1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008Secret Friend: Ox
Allies: Dragon and Monkey
Enemy: Horse
Best Months: February, April, and December
Bad Months: May, July, and October
Zodiac’s Nature: Forthright, tenacious, systematic, meticulous, charismatic, sensitive, hardworking, industrious, charming, eloquent, sociable, artistic, and shrewd. Can be manipulative, vindictive, mendacious, venal, selfish, obstinate, critical, over-ambitious, ruthless, intolerant, and scheming.
Ms. Allen said 2012 is a “mixed year” for the Rat, with favorable career and finances, while experiencing challenges regarding health and romance.
“The Rats should focus on mentally challenging activities rather than doing the party scene,” she advised.
Mr. Chau said opportunities would be knocking on their doors if Rats watch out for what they say, and stay away from jealousy, rumors and personal disputes.
“If they can take advantage of the chances, they can yield twice the result with half the effort,” he said.
Ms. Allen said financial luck would be most favorable for the Wood Rat (28 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rat (76 years old).
Rats will have a steady income of profits from other sources, Mr. Chau said. “Things go smoothly and they will have chances to change jobs and exhibit their talents. However, they have to remember the Chinese motto that says: ‘Too greedy will become poor’ if they want to succeed in 2012,” he explained.
He said the love life of Rats is a flat line in 2012, as they face many obstacles and problems that will cause disputes with their partners. “Therefore, lovers must try to understand and forgive each other,” he said.
Ms. Allen said the health of those born under the sign of the Rat may not be at its best in 2012, so they are advised to adjust to a less demanding schedule.
“Stress brings tension, but allies are there [to come] to the rescue,” Ms. Allen said.
Health luck is most favorable for the Water Rat (40 years old), and least favorable for the Earth Rat (64 years old).
Ox
1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009Secret Friend: Rat
Allies: Snake and Rooster
Enemy: Sheep
Best Months: February, April, August, and September
Bad Month: May, July, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Dependable, calm, methodical, a born leader, patient, hardworking, ambitious, conventional, steady, modest, logical, resolute, and tenacious. Can be stubborn, narrow-minded, materialistic, rigid, and demanding.
Ms. Allen said the presence of the “Multiplying Star” magnifies both the good and the bad fortunes of those born under the sign of the Ox.
“This means that this year may be tougher than last year, but when things go well, they will go very well,” she explained.
Because of this, she advised the Oxen to plan their major activities on their good months.
Mr. Chau said 2012 is a lucky year for Oxen in business, and they will have better prospects in finance. “However they should not be moody or swell-headed. Otherwise, they will suffer a big defeat by their competitors,” he warned.
Financially, the Oxen are expected to be quite fortunate this year because they will have a steady stream of income from different sources. Mr. Chau said it is the ideal time for Oxen to invest or purchase properties, for as long as they keep a low profile so as not to attract theft.
“It is important that they should avoid lending money to others or they should not expect that it will be paid back,” he said.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Ox (27 years old), and Water Ox (39 years old). Financial luck is least favorable for the Fire Ox (75 years old).
On love and romance, Mr. Chau said Oxen would experience stable love lives. However, they should not indulge in late-night parties or suffer love traps along the way. He added that male Oxen will have a better year than their female counterparts.
On health, Mr. Chau said Oxen should take care of their blood circulation, lungs, and heart.
Health luck is most favorable for the Water Ox (39 years old), and least favorable for the Earth Ox (63 years old).
Tiger
1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010Secret Friend: Boar
Allies: Horse and Dog
Enemy: Monkey
Best Months: February, September, and October
Bad Month: March, May, and August
Zodiac’s Nature: Unpredictable, rebellious, colorful, powerful, passionate, daring, impulsive, vigorous, stimulating, sincere, affectionate, a humanitarian, and generous. Can be restless, reckless, impatient, quick-tempered, obstinate, selfish, and aggressive.
“This is a tough and busy year for Tigers,” Mr. Chau said. “They have to work very hard to survive in business, otherwise they will become a loser... So, the busier they are, the better prospects they will have.”
Ms. Allen said Tigers should be mindful of the “Annual Conflict Star,” and must chose auspicious months for important events.
She added that those born under the sign of the Tiger have a “Multiplying Star” this year, which means that both the good and the bad luck get doubled.
Mr. Chau advises Tigers to be more conservative in handling their finances, since a slight mistake might cause them to lose a lot of money.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Tiger (38 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Tiger (26 years old).
Health luck is most favorable for the Metal Tiger (62 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Tiger (26 years old).
“Try to avoid participating in dangerous sports and be aware of road safety,” Mr. Chau said. “In the same manner, they should not neglect the health of their eldest member of the family,” he added.
On love affairs, the romantic star of the Tigers is weak in 2012, Mr. Chau said. “It is full of complications, and love life will definitely not be smooth,” he said. “Reward is little compared to huge effort paid. So, they should not expect too much or they would be deeply disappointed. Lovers should try not to be rigid and try to improve their communication skills,” he added.
Rabbit
1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011Secret Friend: Dog
Allies: Sheep and Boar
Enemy: Rooster
Best month: April, May, June, and August
Bad Months: March, September, and December
Zodiac’s Nature: Gracious, a good friend, kind, sensitive, soft-spoken, amiable, elegant, reserved, cautious, artistic, thorough, tender, self-assured, astute, compassionate, and flexible. Can be moody, detached, superficial, self-indulgent, opportunistic, and stubborn.
Both Ms. Allen and Mr. Chau said Rabbits will have a very good year, with significant improvements over last year.
“Career luck is promising and they will be able to change their bad luck into good fortune,” Mr. Chau said.
However, he warned Rabbits from being too talkative. “Try to be alert [about] people and their hidden enemy. They have to remember the Chinese saying: ‘Sickness comes in through the mouth, and troubles come out from the mouth,’ if they want to succeed in 2012,” he said.
Ms. Allen said the relationships of those born under the Rabbit sign would go well.
Financial luck is most favorable for the Wood Rabbit (37 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rabbit (25 years old).
Mr. Chau said Rabbits will have money luck in 2012, but they have to prevent problems that could be created from wealth. “It is important that they should not be greedy or take shameful profit or they will put themselves into jeopardizing situations,” Mr. Chau explained.
On love affairs, Mr. Chau said Rabbits would find it easy to get into romantic involvements with the opposite gender. However, he said they should keep away from temptations and one-night stands, or fall into serious troubles that they will regret later.
Ms. Allen said health luck is generally good, allowing Rabbits to fight stress and work pressures. Health luck is most favorable for the Metal Rabbit (61 years old), and least favorable for the Fire Rabbit (25 years old).
unquote
CHINESE NEW YEAR IS COMING - here some recipe from Wolfgang Puck
Check out that - try to cook it - it is delicious !
quote
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Wolfgang Puck: In honor of Year of the Dragon, fire up wok for shrimp and noodles
Updated: 01/18/2012 10:03:44 AM CST
For me, food is the best way to celebrate just about any holiday. That is certainly true for the Chinese New Year celebration, which begins this year on Monday.
According to the Chinese zodiac, we're now entering the Year of the Dragon, a time of good fortune. So let's observe it by cooking a dish that represents a fortunate new year for us all.
Noodles are traditionally served at Chinese New Year celebrations, with their lengthy strands representing long lives for those who eat them. So, take care not to cut your noodles when eating lo mein in the recipe I share with you here. Instead, lift up several strands at a time with your chopsticks and take them into your mouth whole or twirl them up Western style on your fork, resting the end of its tines in the bowl of a spoon.
Lo mein are traditional Chinese wheat noodles, rounded strands similar to spaghetti. You'll find them dried in Chinese food stores or in the Asian foods section of most markets; but, for the sake of convenience, you can substitute spaghetti. Whichever you use, be sure to precook the noodles only until al dente - tender but still slightly chewy - and then drain them; they'll continue to cook a bit when you add them to this stir-fry toward the end of cooking.
Speaking of stir-frying, that simple Asian cooking technique speeds the preparation of the recipe. It helps to use a wok, which has a curved bottom, which maximizes the cooking surface. It distributes heat evenly and promotes thorough tossing of the ingredients as you stir them continuously.
You can find woks with flattened undersides that enable them to sit stably on a Western-style stove burner; and there are also good electric woks that heat up perfectly to let you do the cooking on a countertop. In a pinch, though, you can use a large skillet with curved sides.
All of the ingredients for this dish, adapted from a recipe developed at my Chinois restaurants, can be easily found at a well-stocked supermarket. Some of them also express a pan-Asian sensibility that extends beyond the Chinese kitchen alone.
The ponzu, for example, is a traditional Japanese bottled condiment that combines soy sauce, rice vinegar and citrus juice. If you can't find it, mix those three ingredients together to taste.
And then there's a more Western ingredient in the mixture, too - a few tablespoons of butter. Added along with the ponzu toward the end of cooking, it helps bind the sauce together and adds a touch of richness - just the thing you need for a dish to observe a prosperous new year.
GARLIC-PONZU SHRIMP WITH LO MEIN NOODLES
Makes 8 to 10 servings.
2 pounds fresh large shrimp, shelled and deveined
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
5 tablespoons soybean or vegetable oil
1 cup sliced fresh shiitake mushrooms
1 cup thinly sliced baby bok choy leaves
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
2 pounds lo mein noodles or spaghetti, cooked al dente following package instructions, drained
1 cup bottled ponzu sauce
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
To prepare wok: Preheat wok or large skillet over high heat.
To stir-fry shrimp: Using paper towels, pat shrimp dry. Lightly season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons oil to wok. Heat until oil swirls easily and gives off thin haze. Immediately add the shrimp. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or just until they turn pink. Remove shrimp to strainer. Set aside to drain oil.
To stir-fry vegetables: Drizzle remaining oil into hot wok. Heat until hot. Immediately add mushrooms and bok choy. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes or just until colors are bright and vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.
To stir-fry noodles: Add garlic and noodles to vegetables in wok, separating noodles as you add them. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until noodles are heated through and garlic is fragrant. Return shrimp to wok. Add ponzu sauce and butter. Stir-fry, tossing well, just until butter has melted and sauce is hot and coats all ingredients.
To serve: Transfer mixture to serving bowl or platter. Arrange some shrimp attractively on top. Garnish with scallions. Serve immediately.
unquote
More CNY posts will follow ! But somewhat earlier above this Wolfgang Puck is talking about some Japanese ingredients .......not so sure if he is mixing up China & Japan ..........
According to the Chinese zodiac, we're now entering the Year of the Dragon, a time of good fortune. So let's observe it by cooking a dish that represents a fortunate new year for us all.
Noodles are traditionally served at Chinese New Year celebrations, with their lengthy strands representing long lives for those who eat them. So, take care not to cut your noodles when eating lo mein in the recipe I share with you here. Instead, lift up several strands at a time with your chopsticks and take them into your mouth whole or twirl them up Western style on your fork, resting the end of its tines in the bowl of a spoon.
Lo mein are traditional Chinese wheat noodles, rounded strands similar to spaghetti. You'll find them dried in Chinese food stores or in the Asian foods section of most markets; but, for the sake of convenience, you can substitute spaghetti. Whichever you use, be sure to precook the noodles only until al dente - tender but still slightly chewy - and then drain them; they'll continue to cook a bit when you add them to this stir-fry toward the end of cooking.
Speaking of stir-frying, that simple Asian cooking technique speeds the preparation of the recipe. It helps to use a wok, which has a curved bottom, which maximizes the cooking surface. It distributes heat evenly and promotes thorough tossing of the ingredients as you stir them continuously.
You can find woks with flattened undersides that enable them to sit stably on a Western-style stove burner; and there are also good electric woks that heat up perfectly to let you do the cooking on a countertop. In a pinch, though, you can use a large skillet with curved sides.
All of the ingredients for this dish, adapted from a recipe developed at my Chinois restaurants, can be easily found at a well-stocked supermarket. Some of them also express a pan-Asian sensibility that extends beyond the Chinese kitchen alone.
The ponzu, for example, is a traditional Japanese bottled condiment that combines soy sauce, rice vinegar and citrus juice. If you can't find it, mix those three ingredients together to taste.
And then there's a more Western ingredient in the mixture, too - a few tablespoons of butter. Added along with the ponzu toward the end of cooking, it helps bind the sauce together and adds a touch of richness - just the thing you need for a dish to observe a prosperous new year.
GARLIC-PONZU SHRIMP WITH LO MEIN NOODLES
Makes 8 to 10 servings.
2 pounds fresh large shrimp, shelled and deveined
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
5 tablespoons soybean or vegetable oil
1 cup sliced fresh shiitake mushrooms
1 cup thinly sliced baby bok choy leaves
2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
2 pounds lo mein noodles or spaghetti, cooked al dente following package instructions, drained
1 cup bottled ponzu sauce
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
To prepare wok: Preheat wok or large skillet over high heat.
To stir-fry shrimp: Using paper towels, pat shrimp dry. Lightly season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add 2 tablespoons oil to wok. Heat until oil swirls easily and gives off thin haze. Immediately add the shrimp. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or just until they turn pink. Remove shrimp to strainer. Set aside to drain oil.
To stir-fry vegetables: Drizzle remaining oil into hot wok. Heat until hot. Immediately add mushrooms and bok choy. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes or just until colors are bright and vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.
To stir-fry noodles: Add garlic and noodles to vegetables in wok, separating noodles as you add them. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until noodles are heated through and garlic is fragrant. Return shrimp to wok. Add ponzu sauce and butter. Stir-fry, tossing well, just until butter has melted and sauce is hot and coats all ingredients.
To serve: Transfer mixture to serving bowl or platter. Arrange some shrimp attractively on top. Garnish with scallions. Serve immediately.
unquote
More CNY posts will follow ! But somewhat earlier above this Wolfgang Puck is talking about some Japanese ingredients .......not so sure if he is mixing up China & Japan ..........
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