Chicken Broth of Prosperity

The origin of this popular dish is rather obscure. Like many dishes that grace the family table in China, especially during celebrations such as Chinese New Year, the ingredients are imbued with symbolic meaning. Ham and quail’s eggs suggest the wealth and prosperity alluded to in the title, while the chicken represents the legendary phoenix, a symbol of rebirth that is particularly appropriate at the start of a new year. This tasty soup is very substantial and nutritious, and is sometimes