Turnip Cake Chinese Bak is a must-try dish that has won my heart with its delightful flavors and textures. This savory treat, also known as Lo Bak Go, is perfect for celebrations and family gatherings. With its unique combination of ingredients, including Chinese radish and dried shrimp, it delivers a wonderful umami flavor. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! Let’s dive into the world of this delicious Chinese delicacy.

Why You’ll Love This Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
This Turnip Cake Chinese Bak is not just delicious; it also offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite in Chinese cuisine. First, it’s gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. Second, the ingredients are wholesome and packed with nutrients, such as radish and mushrooms, providing a good source of vitamins. Third, it’s versatile, as you can add your favorite proteins, like dried shrimp or Chinese sausage. Fourth, the dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Additionally, it can be served as an appetizer or a main dish, making it suitable for any occasion. Finally, this easy Turnip Cake recipe will impress your family and friends, making you the star of the gathering!
Ingredients for Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
Gather these items:
- 2 cups Rice Flour
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon White Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil
- 1/2 cup Dried Shrimp
- 1/2 cup Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- 1/2 cup Chinese Sausage
- 2 tablespoons Scallion
- 1 large Daikon Radish (Chinese Turnip)
- 1/4 cup Oyster Sauce
How to Make Turnip Cake Chinese Bak Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add dried shrimp, soaked shiitake mushrooms, and Chinese sausage. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 2: Carefully add grated daikon radish and 1 cup of water to the wok. Simmer for around 10 minutes until thickened.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Combine this with the radish mixture.
- Step 4: Brush a loaf or round pan with oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
- Step 5: Place the pan in a steamer set to medium-high heat. Steam for about 50 minutes or until a chopstick comes out clean.
- Step 6: Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Use a spatula to loosen the sides before inverting the pan.
- Step 7: Cut the cooled cake into 1/2-inch thick pieces and pan-fry in a little oil until golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tips for the Best Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
Keep these in mind:
- Serve with oyster sauce as a dipping option.
- Adjust the ingredients based on personal preference.
- For added flavor, consider incorporating more scallions or a bit of garlic into your mixture.
- Ensure the mixture isn’t too watery; this will affect the texture of your cake.
Best Ways to Serve Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
There are many delightful ways to serve this dish. Traditionally, you can serve it with a side of oyster sauce for dipping. Additionally, consider pairing it with a hot bowl of soup or a refreshing salad to balance the flavors. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh scallions or cilantro.
How to Store and Reheat Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
To store your Turnip Cake Chinese Bak, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the pieces in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again. This method preserves its delicious texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Turnip Cake Chinese Bak
What’s the secret to perfect Turnip Cake Chinese Bak?
The secret lies in the balance of moisture and flavor. Make sure to grate the daikon radish finely and not overcook it during the simmering process. This will help in achieving the right texture and taste in your Chinese Turnip Cake.
Can I make Turnip Cake Chinese Bak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep and gatherings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Turnip Cake Chinese Bak?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure that your ingredients are measured accurately and that you steam the cake long enough. If the cake is undercooked, it may not hold together well when sliced.
Variations of Turnip Cake Chinese Bak You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste! For a vegan option, replace the dried shrimp and Chinese sausage with mushrooms or tofu. You can also try adding vegetables like carrots or peas for added color and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate some chili flakes into the mix.
For more delicious recipes, check out Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. You might also enjoy Greek Chicken Bowls and Vegetable Zucchini Fritters for a healthy twist. Lastly, don’t forget to explore Smoky Sweet Potato Chickpea Recipe for a delightful vegetarian option!
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Savory Turnip Cake Chinese Bak: A Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 110 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savory Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) is a must-try dish perfect for festivities and gatherings, filled with unique flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Rice Flour
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon White Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil
- 1/2 cup Dried Shrimp
- 1/2 cup Dried Shiitake Mushrooms
- 1/2 cup Chinese Sausage
- 2 tablespoons Scallion
- 1 large Daikon Radish (Chinese Turnip)
- 1/4 cup Oyster Sauce
Instructions
- Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add dried shrimp, soaked shiitake mushrooms, and Chinese sausage. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Carefully add grated daikon radish and 1 cup of water to the wok. Simmer for around 10 minutes until thickened.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Combine this with the radish mixture.
- Brush a loaf or round pan with oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
- Place the pan in a steamer set to medium-high heat. Steam for about 50 minutes or until a chopstick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Use a spatula to loosen the sides before inverting the pan.
- Cut the cooled cake into 1/2-inch thick pieces and pan-fry in a little oil until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Serve with oyster sauce as a dipping option.
- Adjust the ingredients based on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg