gok3 zai2角仔
Jyutpinggok3 zai2
Yalegok jái
Definition
Gok-zai; deep-fried, half-moon-shaped dumplings with a sweet peanut and sesame filling eaten during Lunar New Year.
colloquialfoodfestival
How it's used
Associated almost exclusively with the Lunar New Year, these dumplings are a staple of traditional festive snack trays. The name refers to their shape, which resembles an ancient gold ingot, symbolizing wealth and prosperity for the coming year. Because they are deep-fried, they are meant to be crispy and are often prepared in large batches to share with visiting relatives.
Measure word
gau6嚿gauhExamples
We must deep-fry some gok-zai at home for the Lunar New Year.
Which do you prefer, deep-fried sesame balls or gok-zai?
Related words
Common mistake
Do not confuse these with savoury dumplings like 餃子, which are typically boiled or steamed and served as a meal. The term specifically refers to the sweet, deep-fried festive pastry.
Grammar color guide
Noun
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
