"Lucky" Chinese New Year symbols are an important part of celebrating the Spring Festival.

Afterall, it is the start of spring -- a perfect time to have your New Year wishes come true!

And what better way to usher in happiness, prosperity and health than to enjoy "auspicious food" with family and friends?

Here are the Top 8 auspicious food symbols for Chinese New Year.

Top 8 Auspicious Food Symbols for Chinese New Year

1. Hot Pot

A steaming hot pot (or chinese fondue) with meat, seafood and vegetables) is a must.

Huo3 in hot pot huo3 guo3 火锅 is the same word as huo3 in hong2 huo3 红火