Chinese turnip cake, also known as lo bak go, is a popular savoury dish enjoyed during Chinese New Year and other special occasions. Made with grated white radish, rice flour, and flavourful seasonings, this traditional Cantonese delicacy has a soft, tender centre and a lightly crisp exterior when pan-fried. Although it may look complicated, you can prepare it at home with a few everyday ingredients and some patience.
This Chinese Turnip Cake Recipe walks you through the ingredients, preparation, steaming, and pan-frying process so you can recreate this comforting Asian favourite in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60–70 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2–3 hours
- Servings: 4–6
- Cooking Method: Steaming and pan-frying
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ingredients for Lo Bak Go
The secret to getting the right texture is balancing the moisture from the radish with the rice flour mixture. Here is what you will need.
For the Main Mixture
- 500 g white radish or daikon
- 150 g rice flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 200 ml water, approximately
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon white pepper powder
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 2 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons dried shrimp, soaked and chopped (optional)
You can skip the mushrooms and dried shrimp for a vegetarian version. Add a little extra spring onion or finely chopped shiitake mushrooms to build flavour.
How to Make Chinese Turnip Cake at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Radish
Wash and peel the white radish. Grate it using a box grater or food processor. You can also cut a small portion into thin strips if you prefer a little texture in the finished dish.
Place the grated radish in a pan with a splash of water. Cook over medium heat for around 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and releases its natural juices. Avoid draining all the liquid, as it helps bring the batter together.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatic Ingredients
Heat the cooking oil in a separate pan. Add the chopped mushrooms and dried shrimp, if using, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the spring onions and cook briefly.
Add the cooked radish, salt, sugar, white pepper, and light soy sauce. Mix everything well so the seasonings are evenly distributed. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the rice flour and cornstarch. Gradually add the water while whisking to create a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Fold the seasoned radish mixture into the batter. The consistency should be thick but moist, with the grated vegetable distributed evenly throughout. If it appears excessively dry, add a little water. If it is too runny, check your flour measurements before proceeding.
Step 4: Steam the Mixture
Lightly grease a heatproof cake tin or shallow baking dish. Pour the prepared mixture into it and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Place the tin inside a steamer over boiling water. Cover and steam for approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on the depth of the mixture. Check that the centre is set by inserting a skewer. It should come out without wet batter clinging to it.
Allow the dish to cool completely before removing the steamed preparation from the tin. Refrigerate it for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to slice neatly.
Step 5: Pan-Fry Until Golden
Once chilled, cut the slab into slices about 1–1.5 cm thick. Heat a little oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
Arrange the slices in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden and lightly crisp. Turn them carefully to prevent breaking. Serve immediately while the edges are crisp and the centre remains soft.
Tips for the Best Results
- Choose the right radish: Fresh, firm white radish provides the best flavour and texture.
- Control the moisture: Radish releases plenty of water while cooking, so adjust the liquid in the batter gradually.
- Let it cool properly: Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to slice and fry.
- Avoid high heat: Moderate heat creates a crisp crust without burning the outside.
- Customise the flavour: Add mushrooms, dried shrimp, or spring onions according to your preference.
How to Serve Lo Bak Go
A good Turnip Cake Recipe is all about contrast: a tender middle, crisp edges, and savoury flavour in every bite. Serve the slices hot with chilli oil, soy sauce, or your favourite dipping sauce. They make a lovely breakfast, afternoon snack, or addition to a dim sum spread.
Once you understand the steaming and cooling process, lo bak go becomes much easier to prepare. With fresh ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy this classic Cantonese dish at home and share a delicious taste of tradition with family and friends.
If you’re short on time or prefer not to prepare desserts at home, you can order cake online and have a delicious treat delivered to your doorstep, making celebrations easier and sweeter.
