It's traditional to serve a whole chicken, including the head and feet, for Chinese New Year. The white meat symbolizes purity, and serving the entire bird represents unity. Plunging the chicken into ice water after poaching ensures that the meat is perfectly juicy and tender. A very simple but powerful dipping sauce tops it off. Use only a tiny amount—it's quite strong.
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· Chicken can be cooked and rubbed with sesame oil (but not cut) 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. · Chicken can be cut up and arranged on platter 4 hours ahead and chilled, covered. Bring to room temperature 1 hour before serving. Drizzle with dipping sauce just before serving. · Dipping sauce can be made 4 hours ahead and kept, covered, at room temperature.
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