As the festive season approaches, I find myself craving the comforts of traditional home-cooked meals, and nothing embodies that nostalgia quite like Turnip Cake, or Lo Bak Go. This savory delight is a staple at dim sum restaurants, but mastering it at home reveals a new depth of flavor that’s simply unmatched. Picture the delightful crunch of freshly grated daikon radish blending seamlessly with tender bites of dried shrimp and savory Chinese sausage, all nestled in a soft and chewy cake base—there’s something incredibly satisfying about every bite.
I first encountered this dish during a Chinese New Year celebration, where my friends and family shared stories around the table, each slice of turnip cake sparking a new memory. What I love most about preparing this recipe is its versatility; not only can you easily adjust the ingredients for vegetarian and gluten-free versions, but you can also control the moisture levels for the perfect texture.
So, whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next potluck or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal, let’s dive into this classic recipe together!
Why is Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) a Must-Try?
Heartwarming Tradition: This Turnip Cake, or Lo Bak Go, is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of culture and connection, perfect for festive gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The savory combination of daikon radish, dried shrimp, and Chinese sausage delivers a rich umami experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Easy to Customize: Whether you’re accommodating vegetarian diets or adjusting for gluten-free preferences, this recipe allows for flexible ingredient swaps to suit everyone’s palate.
Satisfying Texture: With a beautifully chewy base and crispy edges (if fried), every bite provides a delightful contrast that keeps you reaching for more.
Effortless Cooking: The straightforward steps make this dish achievable, even for novice chefs, allowing you to impress family and friends without stress.
Perfect for Sharing: Serving this dish at gatherings transforms meals into memorable experiences, fostering connections over shared flavors and stories.
For more delicious variations on your cooking journey, check out our guide on delicious vegan meals.
Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) Ingredients
For the Batter
- Rice Flour – Essential for structure; creates the cake base.
- Cornstarch – Improves the binding of the cake and adjusts moisture levels.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; taste and adjust according to preference.
- Sugar – Balances the savory profile; can be omitted if desired.
- White Pepper – Adds warmth and subtle spiciness; freshly ground is preferred.
For the Filling
- Neutral Oil – Provides necessary fats for stir-frying and greases the pan; use vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.
- Dried Shrimp – Adds umami flavor and a slight chewiness; soak in hot water to rehydrate and chop before use.
- Dried Shiitake Mushrooms – Contributes earthy depth to the dish; soak until soft and then chop.
- Chinese Sausage – Introduces sweetness and savory complexity; dice into small pieces.
- Scallion – Freshens the dish with a sharp bite; chop before mixing into the batter.
For the Star Ingredient
- Daikon Radish (Chinese Turnip) – Provides sweetness and moisture; grate and select heavy ones for better flavor.
For Serving (Optional)
- Oyster Sauce – Consider as a dipping sauce for serving; look for vegetarian alternatives as needed.
With these carefully selected turnip cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) ingredients, you’ll be ready to create a dish that’s not just delicious, but also filled with warmth and tradition!
How to Make Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go)
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Stir-Fry Ingredients: Heat oil in a wok over medium heat. Add prepared dried shrimp, soaked shiitake mushrooms, and chopped Chinese sausage. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and slightly browned. Incorporate the chopped scallion, mixing well, then remove from heat.
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Prepare Radish: Carefully add the grated daikon radish and 1 cup of water to the wok with the sautéed mixture. Simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and some liquid evaporates. Aim for a slightly softened texture.
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Mix Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together rice flour, cornstarch, and ½ cup of water until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water or cornstarch based on your desired cake moisture; aim for a batter that’s pourable but not too runny. Combine this with the radish mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
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Prepare for Steaming: Generously brush a loaf or round pan with oil to prevent sticking. Transfer the prepared batter into the pan and spread it out evenly, ensuring it fills the corners.
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Steam Cake: Place the pan in a steamer set to medium-high heat. Steam for about 50 minutes if using a loaf pan or 40 minutes for a round pan. Check doneness by inserting a chopstick; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
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Cool and Unmold: Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Once cooled, use a spatula to loosen the sides before inverting the pan onto a cutting board to release the cake.
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Slice and Fry (optional): Cut the cooled cake into ½-inch thick pieces. For a deliciously crispy edge, pan-fry the slices in a little oil over medium-low heat until both sides turn golden brown and crispy.
Optional: Serve hot with oyster sauce or chili oil for an added flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go)
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. You can also keep it in the loaf pan, covered with plastic wrap.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen turnip cake, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Before serving, slice and pan-fry for a crispy finish that awakens its delightful flavors.
Reheating: For best results, steam the slices with a little water to retain moisture before pan-frying them until golden. This will give you that sought-after texture of the original turnip cake.
Tips for the Best Turnip Cake
- Choose the Right Daikon: Select heavy, fresh daikon radishes for better flavor and moisture. Avoid older, limp ones, which can lack sweetness.
- Control the Texture: Adjust the water and cornstarch ratio based on your texture preference; less water yields a firmer cake, great for flavor enhancement.
- Chill Before Slicing: Refrigerate the cake after cooking for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it much easier to slice.
- Avoid Glutinous Flour: Stick with rice flour for the authentic turnip cake texture. Glutinous rice flour will create a different, chewier result.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating fried turnip cake slices, steam them with a bit of water in the pan before pan-frying to keep them moist.
- Flavor Combinations: Experiment with additional seasonings or dipping sauces to find the perfect pairing that complements your turnip cake experience.
Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your turnip cake experience with these exciting twists!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace shrimp and Chinese sausage with more mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, and additional scallions for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Adding an extra dose of vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also creates lovely texture contrasts throughout the cake. -
Vegan Swap: Use plant-based oyster sauce or a homemade soy sauce mixture instead of oyster sauce, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish guilt-free.
With the right substitutions, you can capture all the beloved flavors while keeping it entirely vegan-friendly! -
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute rice flour with a certified gluten-free blend, ensuring it maintains its traditional charm without gluten.
This simple swap allows those with dietary restrictions to join in on the joy of homemade turnip cake without compromising taste! -
Moisture Levels: Experiment with the water and cornstarch ratio to create a denser or softer cake that suits your palate.
Adjusting these elements can lead to delightful new textures—play around until you discover your favorite! -
Spice it Up: Add chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili oil to the batter for a kick of heat that enhances flavor.
Spicy notes can transform the dish into an exciting adventure, perfect for spice lovers! -
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil into the filling for a fragrant twist on this classic treat.
Not only will they brighten the flavors, but they’ll also add a fresh element that complements the earthy base beautifully. -
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts before steaming for an added crunch that elevates the texture.
This unexpected addition creates a delightful contrast and brings the dish to another level of enjoyment. -
Sweet-Savory Balance: Experiment with the sugar content for a slightly sweeter cake, making it a unique treat that balances both savory and sweet flavors.
This creative approach could introduce a wholly new experience, turning your turnip cake into a standout dish at any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) ahead of time is a fantastic way to save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can grate the daikon radish and combine it with the other filling ingredients for up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The batter can also be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just ensure you give it a good stir before steaming. When you’re ready to enjoy your turnip cake, steam the mixture as directed and fry the sliced pieces if desired. This ensures you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort, making mealtime a breeze!
What to Serve with Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go)?
Transform your meal with delightful sides that enhance this traditional favorite!
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Steamed Bok Choy: This tender green vegetable offers a refreshing contrast, adding a touch of vibrant color and slight crunch to your plate.
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Sweet Soy Sauce Chicken: The rich, umami-packed flavor of this dish complements the savory notes of turnip cake, making for a splendid harmony in every bite.
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Egg Drop Soup: This comforting, silky broth pairs beautifully with turnip cake, making it a perfect starter that warms the soul.
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Chili Garlic Sauce: A zesty and spicy dip that brings a whole new level of flavor to each bite, elevating your turnip cake experience.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: The crispness of the cucumbers, lightly dressed in vinegar and sesame oil, adds freshness and crunch to balance the chewiness of the cake.
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Hot Jasmine Tea: This aromatic tea not only offers warmth but also cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Mango Pudding: A sweet, creamy dessert to round off the meal beautifully; its tropical notes create a delightful contrast to the savory cake.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy bites filled with fresh veggies provide a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor, perfect for a delightful combination.
By mixing and matching these sides, your turnip cake feast will become a cherished dining experience among family and friends!
Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe daikon radish for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Look for heavy, firm daikon radishes without any dark spots or blemishes. A fresh daikon will have smooth skin and feel dense in your hand, which indicates good moisture content and sweetness. Avoid limp radishes, as they can be lackluster in taste.
What is the best way to store leftover turnip cake?
You can store your turnip cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container, or if you prefer, keep it in the loaf pan covered with plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. This will help preserve the delightful texture for your next meal!
Can I freeze turnip cake, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze turnip cake for up to 3 months! First, let it cool completely, then slice it into pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and pan-fry for a crispy finish.
What if my turnip cake turns out too soft or mushy?
If your cake is too soft, it likely had too much moisture in the batter. To avoid this in the future, reduce the amount of water next time or increase the cornstarch slightly for better binding. If you’ve already made the cake, try steaming it a bit longer to help it set, or chill it in the fridge before slicing.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free rice flour. For a vegetarian or vegan option, simply replace the dried shrimp and Chinese sausage with additional shiitake mushrooms and assorted vegetables. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavor-packed goodness!
How should I serve turnip cake for the best flavor experience?
Serve your turnip cake hot, ideally pan-fried for that wonderful crispy texture on the outside! An optional dipping sauce of oyster sauce or homemade chili oil enhances the flavors beautifully, providing a savory contrast to the sweet notes of the radish. Enjoying it with friends and family will surely make the dining experience even more memorable!
Savory Turnip Cake (Chinese Lo Bak Go) You Can Proudly Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.