Red tortoise cake

Red Tortoise Cake (also known as Ang Ku Kueh in Hokkien and Kue Ku in Indonesian) is a traditional Asian dessert that is commonly used in various cultural celebrations. It is a type of Chinese pastry made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet fillings. The cake is shaped like a tortoise shell and is usually red in color, hence the name.

History

The Red Tortoise Cake has a long history in Chinese culture. It is believed to have originated from the Fujian province in China. The cake is traditionally made during the Chinese New Year and other important festivals. It is also used in various rituals and ceremonies such as birthdays and weddings.

Preparation

The preparation of Red Tortoise Cake involves several steps. The outer layer of the cake is made from glutinous rice flour, which is mixed with water and red food coloring. The dough is then shaped into a tortoise shell using a special mould. The filling is usually made from sweetened mung bean paste, but other fillings such as peanut and sesame can also be used. The cakes are then steamed until they are soft and chewy.

Cultural Significance

The Red Tortoise Cake holds significant cultural value in Chinese and other Asian societies. The tortoise is a symbol of longevity and good luck in Chinese culture, and the red color of the cake is believed to bring good fortune. Therefore, the cake is often used in celebrations and rituals to symbolize blessings and good wishes.

Variations

There are several variations of the Red Tortoise Cake in different Asian cultures. In Indonesia, the cake is known as Kue Ku and is often filled with sweetened coconut. In Malaysia and Singapore, the cake is commonly filled with peanut and sesame.

See Also

• Chinese pastry
• Chinese New Year
• Glutinous rice