SINGAPORE: A foreigner who is the partner to a Singaporean Chinese girlfriend took to an online forum to ask Singaporeans what would be appropriate to bring to a Chinese New Year reunion dinner.
“For context, (my) girlfriend is Singaporean Chinese and I’m (a) foreigner,” the online user wrote on Thursday (Feb 8). “Last year, I only brought two oranges, but (this year), I want to bring more since I’m getting free, delicious home-cooked meals which I really appreciate and want to show my gratitude. Kinda late but what options do I have?”
A handful of online users came to the writer’s rescue and shared their personal takes on the matter. From sweet delicacies to abalone (typical seafood served in Chinese New Year), people shared some recommendations.
“I personally wouldn’t do ang pow,” said one, referring to a money gift.
“My foreigner husband’s first CNY, he brought canned abalone and a big appetite. He kept raving about the food. I think that pleased my elders the most. Nothing quite hits the spot for aunties like stuffing people full of food.
The next year we paid for it though because more food was brought in and we (had) to eat it all. It’s mellowed out since my other cousins got their girlfriends and boyfriends, they had fresh meat to tackle and shove food to.”
Another wrote, “Firstly, kudos to you for showing your gratitude! Am sure the family will appreciate it. A few options you can consider: 1.) Delicacies and snacks: You can get cakes and biscuits from bakeries and shops (eg. Bengawan Solo). Or even CNY goodies that your girlfriend’s family will like, like bakkwa, pork floss, pineapple tarts, kueh bangkit;
“2. Desserts: Ice cream from nearby supermarkets is a good option, if your girlfriend’s family has a fridge with a cold freezer that you can store the ice cream in. Or other desserts like bean curd and soya milk; 3. Small gifts for the family: They can be household items that are useful for the family. Whatever you get, it’s the thoughts that count!”
Another shared, “This is personal, but I wouldn’t give CNY exclusive foods like pineapple tarts because every family I know is up to their eyeballs in it. Maybe something longer-lasting and more year-round friendly like abalone and bak kwa would be better.”
Still, one wished the person a happy reunion dinner. “Going to CNY reunion dinner to your GF’s family, best is to buy abalone,” they wrote. “It is presentable, can eat instantly or store for later days. Good luck to your reunion dinner. Have fun.”