Chinese Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Chinese Turnip Cake, or Lo Bak Go, is a traditional Cantonese dish commonly found at dim sum restaurants and served during Chinese New Year celebrations. Made from shredded daikon radish and a savory combination of cured meats and mushrooms, this steamed and pan-fried cake delivers a satisfying contrast of textures and rich umami flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Offers an authentic taste of classic dim sum.
• Combines a crispy outer layer with a soft, tender interior.
• Ideal as a snack, side dish, or part of a festive spread.
• Can be made ahead and reheated, making it practical for busy occasions.
• A culturally significant recipe, perfect for honoring traditional Chinese holidays.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Daikon radish (Chinese turnip)
• Rice flour
• Cornstarch
• Chinese sausage (lap cheong)
• Dried shiitake mushrooms
• Dried shrimp
• Scallions
• Salt
• Sugar
• White pepper
• Water
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Soak dried shiitake mushrooms and dried shrimp in warm water until soft. Dice both along with the Chinese sausage.
2. Peel and grate the daikon radish. Cook it over medium heat until it softens and releases liquid. Reserve the liquid.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and shrimp until fragrant. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, mix rice flour, cornstarch, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Gradually add the reserved radish liquid and more water to form a smooth batter.
5. Combine the cooked radish, sautéed ingredients, and chopped scallions with the batter.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased pan and steam over medium-high heat for 50–60 minutes, until firm and cooked through.
7. Let the cake cool completely, ideally refrigerating overnight to firm up.
8. Slice into pieces and pan-fry until both sides are golden brown.
9. Serve warm, optionally with soy or chili sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 8
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Cooling Time: At least 2 hours (preferably overnight)
• Total Time: Approximately 3.5 hours

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and shrimp, and use extra mushrooms or tofu.
• Spicy: Add fresh chopped chilies or a spoon of chili oil to the batter.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Modern twist: Try adding minced garlic, shallots, or even small dried scallops for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Defrost before reheating.
• Reheat: Pan-fry until warmed through or steam briefly to restore softness.

FAQs

What is Chinese Turnip Cake made of?

It is primarily made of daikon radish, rice flour, and savory additions like Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and mushrooms.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and seafood, and use mushrooms or other vegetables as substitutes.

Why is it called a “cake”?

In Chinese cuisine, “cake” refers to both sweet and savory steamed or baked goods that are often sliced into squares or rectangles.

Do I need a special mold or pan?

No, any heatproof dish or loaf pan that fits your steamer will work.

Can I use regular radish instead of daikon?

Daikon is preferred for its mild flavor and moisture content, but in a pinch, milder white radish can be used.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The base is gluten-free, but check your sausages, soy sauce, and other condiments for hidden gluten.

Can I steam this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can steam it on the trivet with water below for 40–45 minutes using the steam function.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking when frying?

Use a non-stick pan and a small amount of oil. Make sure the slices are cold or firm before frying.

What sauces go well with turnip cake?

Soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a chili garlic sauce all complement the savory flavors.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Absolutely. Steam the cake a day ahead, refrigerate, then pan-fry before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Chinese Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go) is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine that perfectly combines comfort and tradition. Whether enjoyed during a holiday celebration or as a weekend treat, this savory dish offers timeless flavor and satisfying texture. With make-ahead convenience and easy customization, it’s a versatile recipe worth mastering.

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