Turnip cake, or "lo bak go" as it’s known in Cantonese, is a beloved dim sum dish that holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers across the world. It’s a savory, comforting cake made from grated turnips (or daikon radish), rice flour, and a blend of umami-packed seasonings. Originally a dish enjoyed during Chinese New Year, this versatile and hearty cake has become a staple of dim sum menus, typically served fried to golden perfection.
Its subtle, tender texture and savory flavors make it incredibly popular, and with a vegetarian twist, this recipe takes it to new heights while staying true to its authentic roots. So, whether you’re a dim sum aficionado or just someone who loves experimenting with new flavors, this turnip cake vegetarian recipe will give you that satisfying, comforting taste without the meat.
Turnip Cake Vegetarian Recipe
This vegetarian version of the turnip cake skips traditional ingredients like Chinese sausage or dried shrimp, but still delivers the signature texture and flavor balance. By utilizing plant-based ingredients, it caters to vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption, without sacrificing taste or authenticity.
The recipe remains rooted in the principle of "comfort food"-warm, filling, and utterly delicious. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients Needed
To make this vegetarian turnip cake, you’ll need a combination of ingredients that range from fresh vegetables to a few pantry staples:
- 1 medium daikon radish (about 1 lb or 450g): The star of the dish, providing that signature crunch and subtle flavor.
- 1 cup rice flour: This forms the base of the cake and gives it that dense, sticky texture.
- ½ cup water: To dissolve the rice flour and form the batter.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: For seasoning and umami.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds richness and a hint of nuttiness.
- 2 teaspoons vegetarian oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce): For an earthy, umami flavor that mimics the depth of traditional oyster sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory notes.
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms (or your choice of mushrooms): Chopped finely; these provide that earthy, savory flavor that replaces meat.
- 2-3 dried shiitake mushrooms (optional): Soaked and chopped for a deeper mushroom flavor.
- 2 tablespoons dried red dates (optional): Adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
- ½ teaspoon white pepper: For a touch of heat.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For sautéing.
Cooking Instructions
This recipe requires a few steps, but don’t worry-nothing too complicated! Here’s how to put it all together:
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Prepare The Turnip
- Peel the daikon radish and grate it into fine shreds. Squeeze out any excess water using a cheesecloth or kitchen towel (this prevents the cake from being too watery).
- Set the grated turnip aside.
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Make The Batter
- In a large bowl, mix together the rice flour, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir until the batter is smooth and uniform.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped shiitake mushrooms, dried dates (if using), and scallions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and the aromatics are fragrant.
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Combine Everything
- Add the grated turnip to the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to cook for another 5 minutes until the turnip softens slightly.
- Slowly add the batter to the pan, stirring constantly to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
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Steam The Cake
- Grease a round or square cake pan with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the turnip mixture into the pan and smooth out the top.
- Steam the cake for about 40-50 minutes over medium heat. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick-it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
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Cool And Fry (Optional, But Recommended!)
- Once steamed, let the turnip cake cool completely. This helps it set and firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Cut the cooled turnip cake into squares or slices.
- Heat a bit of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the slices until crispy and golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Serve
- Serve your crispy, golden turnip cake slices with a drizzle of soy sauce or chili oil, and enjoy!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
- Daikon Radish: This is the main ingredient in turnip cake, not only giving it its name but also its signature texture. Daikon is a root vegetable that is slightly sweet and peppery, and it holds moisture while still providing crunch. When grated and steamed, it becomes tender and delicate, taking on the flavor of whatever seasonings are added.
- Rice Flour: Unlike regular wheat flour, rice flour doesn’t have gluten, which is essential for achieving the dense, sticky texture of turnip cake. Rice flour is responsible for the firm, gelatinous consistency that makes the cake so satisfying.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their rich umami flavor, shiitake mushrooms (especially when dried) contribute a deep, savory base to the dish. They mimic the complexity and depth of traditional meat or seafood ingredients, making them a great substitute in vegetarian recipes.
- Vegetarian Oyster Sauce: Made from mushrooms, this sauce delivers a similar umami punch as traditional oyster sauce, providing the savory and slightly sweet undertones that are essential to authentic turnip cake.
Expert Tips
- Grating the Turnip: Be sure to grate the turnip finely. The smaller the shreds, the smoother the texture of your cake will be. Also, squeezing out excess moisture is crucial to prevent the cake from becoming too mushy.
- Steam with a Lid: Keep the lid tightly covered when steaming the turnip cake to ensure it cooks evenly and retains its moisture.
- Frying for Crispy Edges: If you like crispy edges, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the slices. This will give the turnip cake a nice, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside soft and tender.
- Chill Before Frying: After steaming the cake, refrigerating it for a couple of hours or overnight before frying will help it hold its shape better and ensure crispier results.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Turnip Cake: Add a small amount of chili paste or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sautéed mushrooms to bring a spicy kick to the dish.
- Lotus Root: Add finely diced lotus root for an added crunch and slightly sweet flavor.
- Smoked Tofu: For a smokier flavor, try adding some smoked tofu or tempeh to the filling.
- Add More Greens: You can incorporate spinach, bok choy, or chard for extra color and nutrients. Just be sure to chop them finely and squeeze out excess moisture.
Final Words
Vegetarian turnip cake is a perfect dish to enjoy on any occasion, from dim sum gatherings to family dinners. It’s a unique blend of comforting textures and savory flavors, and even without meat, it still holds true to its traditional roots. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, it’s sure to become a favorite.
FAQs
What Is A Vegetarian Turnip Cake?
A vegetarian turnip cake is a savory Chinese dish made primarily with grated daikon radish (also known as turnip) mixed with rice flour, seasonings, and vegetables. It is typically steamed and then pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior. Unlike traditional recipes that might include meat or seafood, the vegetarian version omits those ingredients.
Can I Use Other Types Of Radish For Turnip Cake?
While daikon radish is the most common and preferred choice for turnip cakes due to its mild flavor and texture, you can experiment with other radishes. However, the texture and taste might vary. Make sure to choose a radish that is not too spicy and has a firm texture, such as the watermelon or black radish.
How Do I Make Turnip Cake Vegetarian Without Using Dried Shrimp Or Chinese Sausage?
To make a vegetarian turnip cake, you can replace dried shrimp and Chinese sausage with plant-based ingredients like shiitake mushrooms for umami flavor and tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also incorporate vegetables such as carrots, bok choy, or water chestnuts to enhance texture and flavor.
Can I Prepare Turnip Cake In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare turnip cakes in advance. After steaming the cakes, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, slice the cakes and pan-fry them until crispy. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Is Turnip Cake Gluten-free?
Traditional turnip cake contains rice flour, which is gluten-free, but it might also contain soy sauce or other condiments that could have gluten. To make the turnip cake truly gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and verify that all other ingredients are free from gluten.
What Is The Texture Of Turnip Cake Like?
The texture of turnip cake is soft and slightly dense due to the grated radish and rice flour. When steamed, the cake holds together in a firm block, and once pan-fried, it develops a crispy exterior. The inside remains tender and moist, with the grated radish providing a bit of crunch.
What Should I Serve With Vegetarian Turnip Cake?
Vegetarian turnip cake can be served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. It pairs well with stir-fried greens, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it alongside rice or other dim sum dishes for a more substantial meal.
Can I Steam The Turnip Cake In A Rice Cooker?
Yes, you can steam turnip cake in a rice cooker if it has a steam function. Simply prepare the batter, pour it into a heatproof dish, and place it inside the rice cooker. Add water to the rice cooker base and set it to steam, checking the cake’s doneness after about 40 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your cake.
How Long Does It Take To Steam Vegetarian Turnip Cake?
Steaming vegetarian turnip cake typically takes about 40 to 50 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of the cake and the steaming method. You should check the cake to ensure it has set and is firm to the touch. It should be fully cooked through and not sticky.
Can I Make Turnip Cake Without Rice Flour?
Rice flour is essential for the texture of traditional turnip cakes, but you can try substituting it with other gluten-free flours like cornstarch, potato starch, or tapioca flour. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, and you might need to adjust the amount of liquid to achieve the right consistency.