Chinese New Year treats are not just delicious, they also bear auspicious symbolisms, earning them a special spot on banquet tables during this important time of the year. Most foods’ meanings or “luck” are derived from their appearance or from the way they are pronounced. Extra care also goes into how they are prepared and served.

As we ring in the Year of the Pig, we give you a lowdown on some of the most popular lunar new year treats, as well as what each of them symbolize:

Chángshòu Miàn (长寿面) – Longevity