The vibrant spectacle of colorful ingredients being tossed high into the air is a hallmark of Chinese New Year in Singapore. This joyous tradition, known as lo hei, is more than just a salad, it’s a powerful ritual to usher in a year of prosperity, health, and good fortune with family and friends.
At the heart of the celebration is the raw fish salad called yusheng. While it may seem complex to a newcomer, this complete lo hei guide will walk you through every step. You will learn the meaning behind the ingredients and master all the essential yusheng sayings to toss like a pro.
Lo hei is a cherished custom that combines food, culture, and well-wishes. It is an interactive and boisterous activity that officially kicks off the feasting and festivities for many families and businesses during the Chinese New Year period.
The name “yusheng” (鱼生) literally translates to “raw fish.” However, the characters are rich with meaning. The character for fish, “yu,” is a homophone for the character for abundance (余). The act of tossing, “lo hei” (捞起) in Cantonese, means to “toss up,” symbolizing the act of tossing up good fortune for the year ahead.
The practice of eating raw fish on the seventh day of the Lunar New Year, known as Renri (the birthday of all humans), originated in the Canton province of China. This tradition was brought to the region by early Chinese immigrants.
The modern and colorful version we enjoy today was created and popularized in Singapore in the 1960s. A group of four chefs developed the iconic “Seven Colour Yusheng,” establishing a cultural phenomenon that has become an indispensable part of Chinese New Year in Singapore.
Following the correct yusheng steps is part of the fun. Gather everyone around the table with their chopsticks ready. As each ingredient is added, a specific auspicious phrase is recited. This guide covers what to say during lo hei for each of the twelve key steps.
Before you begin, ensure your yusheng platter is arranged with the shredded radish and carrots as a base. All other ingredients, such as the fish, sauces, and crackers, should be in separate packets or bowls, ready to be added in sequence.
Follow this sequence for a traditional and meaningful lo hei ceremony.
Beyond knowing the yusheng sayings, a few points of etiquette can enhance the experience of tossing yusheng and make it more fun for everyone involved.
The core belief is that the height of the toss correlates with the amount of luck and prosperity one will receive. Encourage everyone to toss the salad as high as they can. A messy table is not a sign of poor manners but of great abundance to come.
“Huat Ah!” is a Hokkien phrase that means “to prosper.” It is an enthusiastic and common exclamation shouted during the toss to rally good fortune and energize the atmosphere. It is the quintessential sound of Chinese New Year in Singapore.
For a quick reminder, here is a summary of the key ingredients and their powerful symbolic meanings.
| Ingredient | Auspicious Meaning |
| Raw Fish | Abundance and surplus |
| Pomelo / Lime | Great luck and profit |
| Spices | Attracting wealth and treasure |
| Oil | Wealth flowing from all directions |
| Carrots | Good luck is approaching |
| Green Radish | Eternal youth |
| White Radish | Progress and promotion at work |
| Peanut Crumbs | A house filled with gold and silver |
| Sesame Seeds | Prosperity for business |
| Golden Crackers | The ground being covered in gold |
| Plum Sauce | A sweet and happy life |
While the tradition is deeply rooted, yusheng has evolved over the years to cater to modern tastes and dietary preferences, showing its adaptability.
Many restaurants and households now offer luxurious versions of yusheng with premium ingredients like abalone, lobster, or scallops. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian versions are widely available, often replacing the fish with soy-based alternatives or simply using more vegetables.
During the Chinese New Year period, yusheng sets are readily available across Singapore. You can find them at most major supermarkets, Chinese restaurants, and even some hotel F&B outlets. Pre-ordering from your favorite restaurant is a popular option.
Here are answers to some common questions about the lo hei tradition.
Yes, absolutely. Many supermarkets sell individual ingredients, from pre-shredded vegetables to the sauces and crackers, allowing you to assemble your own yusheng platter at home. This can be a fun family activity.
Traditionally, the yusheng should be tossed seven times while reciting good wishes. However, most gatherings continue tossing with enthusiasm until everyone is satisfied. The spirit of the activity is more important than a strict count.
Don’t worry. The intention and positive energy are what matter most. If you forget a specific phrase, simply say a general well-wish like “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (恭喜发财) or another positive hope for the new year. The goal is to celebrate together.
The lo hei ceremony is a beautiful and meaningful way to kick off Chinese New Year celebrations. It is a tradition that connects generations, reinforces cultural values, and fills the room with hope and positivity for the year to come.
This lo hei guide provides all the knowledge you need to participate confidently. So, gather your loved ones, ready your chopsticks, and don’t be afraid to make a mess. Here’s to a year of health, happiness, and soaring prosperity
