“Charity Manchu and Han Banquet” Brings Spring Breeze
Good Deeds and Happiness for All
Have you ever heard of the Manchu and Han Imperial banquets ? （滿漢宮廷宴） It’s a special feast that not many people in Hong Kong have tried. It’s hard to find someone who knows about it, even if you have money, there’s no guarantee you can taste it. But this time, we’re lucky because Mr. Thomas Woo Chu, a famous person in the food and beverage industry, has organized a special event to raise money for charity. A long time ago, when the Manchu people （滿州人）ruled China, they combined their own cuisine with the Han people’s cuisine（漢菜）, creating something unique that represents both cultures. The banquet follows the traditions of the Qing Imperial Palace （清皇朝）.
In the past, the Qing Emperor would invite important government officials to a grand event. Everyone would sit according to their rank, and the host would explain the rituals (宮廷禮儀 )to the guests. Then, they would all follow the rituals together. The “Elite Manchu and Han Banquet” （小滿漢）is not small at all, especially when compared to a “Grand Manchu and Han Banquet.”（滿漢全席） It’s a grand and special feast that impresses everyone. The elite banquet also called the “Lingnan Manchu and Han Banquet” （嶺南滿漢）because it has special flavors from the Lingnan region.
In the old days, preparing the Manchu Han Imperial banquet. It used to include some ingredients like bear paws(熊掌）, monkey brains（猴子腦）, and elephant trunks（象拔）. But nowadays, it’s not allowed to eat those things because they are protected. Chefs have come up with new ideas and changed the recipes. Instead of bear paws, they use camel’s feet. Instead of monkey brains, they use fish brains. And instead of elephant trunks, they use geoduck clams( 象拔蚌). These changes make the food delicious and healthy .
Scheduled for March 18, 2024, the “Charity Manchu and Han Banquet” will take place at Golden Lilies International Banquet G/F., Skyline Tower, 39 Wang Kwong Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon. The banquet will commence at 5:00 pm, with each guest receiving a symbolic “Yellow Robe.” Attendees will have the opportunity to pose at designated photo spots, immersing themselves in the experience of being an Emperor. Additionally, commemorative menus and exquisite albums will be presented as gifts. The organizing committee plans to invite several hundred benefactors to over 30 tables, aiming to raise funds in the high six figures through corporate sponsorship and donations.
Given the rarity and high cost of ingredients for Complete Manchu and Han Banquets, the common folk have only been able to master the cooking techniques. These banquets have remained exclusive to the wealthy elite. In modern-day Hong Kong, Manchu banquets are not as elaborate and do not span multiple days. Instead, selected representative dishes will be offered to guests.
Regarding the fundraising format and goals, the organizing committee has taken into account the current global economic downturn. They have carefully set the ticket price at HK$15,000 per person, which was the price back in 2012. However, there is an Early Bird offer available at HK$12,000.
The organizer of this event, Mr. Woo Chu (BBS), has dedicated over 50 years to learning the art of Manchu banquets from the renowned chef, Mr. Ng Luan.
The funds raised from this event will be directed towards the “Lifeline Express Eye-Train” medical relief vehicles, aiming to benefit visually impaired patients and provide them with much-needed support.
Photos of Golden Lilies International Banquet
