Delicious Lo Bak Go (Turnip Cake) Recipe
Are you ready to discover a yummy dish called Lo Bak Go or Turnip Cake? This special treat comes from the heart of Chinese cuisine and is loved by many around the world! Traditionally enjoyed during the Chinese New Year, it symbolizes good fortune and prosperity. People often serve it during celebrations, making it a significant dish in Chinese culture.
Why is Lo Bak Go so popular? Its delightful combination of flavors, soft texture, and crispy outside makes it appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s versatile! You can enjoy it on its own or with a tasty sauce. Let’s dive into how to make your very own Turnip Cake!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Daikon radish (or Chinese turnip) | 1 medium (about 2 pounds) |
| Rice flour | 1 cup |
| Water | 3/4 cup |
| Chinese sausage (Lap Cheong) | 1/4 cup, diced |
| Mushrooms (shiitake or button) | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Green onions | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
If you can’t find daikon radish, you can substitute it with any firm white radish. You can also switch out the Chinese sausage for any preferred protein or make it vegetarian!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Radish: Peel and shred the daikon radish using a grater. Then, steam the shredded radish for about 10 minutes until it’s tender.
- Mix the Batter: In a bowl, combine the rice flour, water, salt, and pepper. Stir until you get a smooth, thick batter.
- Add Fillings: In a pan, sauté the diced Chinese sausage, chopped mushrooms, and green onions for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Mix them with the radish and then fold everything into the batter.
- Prepare the Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch round cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Steam the Cake: Place the pan in a steamer and steam for about 45 minutes or until firm. Make sure to check with a toothpick; it should come out clean!
- Cool and Slice: Let it cool for a bit before removing from the pan. Once cooled, slice into pieces.
- Fry (Optional): Heat some oil in a pan and fry the slices until golden and crispy on both sides before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 130 | 6% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 25g | 8% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sodium | 200mg | 9% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like vegetables or different types of meat, to make it your own!
- Get Creative: Instead of frying, you can serve it steamed with soy sauce or chili sauce.
- Avoid Soggy Cake: Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the steamed radish to keep the cake from becoming too soggy.
FAQs
What is Lo Bak Go?
Lo Bak Go, or Turnip Cake, is a savory cake made from grated radish and rice flour, traditionally enjoyed in Chinese cuisine.
Is it healthy?
Yes, Lo Bak Go can be a healthy dish as it includes vegetables and can be made with less oil!
Can I freeze Lo Bak Go?
Absolutely! You can freeze it after cooking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to keep it fresh.
How do I serve Lo Bak Go?
You can serve it sliced and fried for a crunchy texture, alongside soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.
What if I don’t have rice flour?
If you don’t have rice flour, you can use glutinous rice flour, but the texture will be slightly different.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the sausage and add more vegetables or mushrooms for flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make Lo Bak Go ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare it a day before and steam it the next day before serving.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a steamer, a mixing bowl, and a pan for frying.
What’s the best way to cook Lo Bak Go?
The best way is to steam the cake first and then fry it for a crispy finish!
Can I add more ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with spices, vegetables, or other proteins to customize your Turnip Cake.
Now that you have all the information, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy making Lo Bak Go. This delicious dish will surely impress your family and friends!
