misfortune cookies

Okay, so maybe “misfortune” is an exaggeration, but these cookies are for sure not your typical peace, love, and harmony fortune cookie. Growing up half-Asian was great. The food is probably one of the best parts. I mean, in what other family do you get turkey AND fried rice for Thanksgiving (true story)? So thanks to my mom for introducing me to kai lan and bok choy on the Asian side, and thanks to Pops for introducing me to spuds and fortune cookies. *Gasp!* I know you are all wondering, but the truth is, these little sweets are a modern American creation. And since I am a true-blue American, it is my cookie.
Ever since having custom made cookies at my wedding reception, I’ve always wanted to make some more “not so traditional” cookies. With the help of Tsue Chong Egg and Noodle Co. in Seattle, I was able to make some professional cookies with a little punch. I wrote up my list of "fortunes" and gave it to them with my cookie order. Here are a few sample sayings:

Help! I’m being held hostage in a Chinese Bakery!

Soon fortune cookies will be all you can afford.

I cannot help you for I am only a cookie.

You’ve turned into your mother.

Looks can be deceiving, but you are not fooling anyone.

Eat your vegetables.

Only a fool would look to a cookie for wisdom.

Well, you get the picture. Think of the possibilities. I may have some chore fortunes made up for my kids. They will beg to do their chores if it comes from a cookie, right? You all are crafty/creative folks, so I know you are thinking right now of how you can personalize your own cookies. Give Tsue Chong a call--they run from $5.50-$12 per lb. (about 65 cookies), and for a little extra you can get exotic flavors like ginger, banana, mocha, and mint. Or, why not make your own at home? Here's a recipe for a do-it-yourself version. For those of you that want a non-edible cookie, you can find tutorials here and here for fabric and paper fortune cookies.

Check out these beautiful fabric fortune cookies by Megan at Brassy Apple.

And the tutorial for this easy paper version by Kimberly at For the Love of Paper is wonderful!

These would both make fabulous favors for a Chinese New Year celebration! (It's January 26 this year, in case you were wondering.) We'll be posting more ideas to help you celebrate Chinese New Year 2009 throughout the month. Enjoy!