Turnip cake

Turnip cake (also known as lo bak go in Cantonese) is a traditional Chinese dish, particularly popular in Cantonese cuisine. It is commonly served in dim sum restaurants and during the Chinese New Year period.

Ingredients

The main ingredient of turnip cake is shredded radish, which is also known as turnip, hence the name. Other ingredients include water, rice flour, and various types of meat and vegetables, such as Chinese sausage (lap cheong), dried shrimp, and dried mushrooms. Some variations may also include dried scallops or oysters.

Preparation

The shredded radish and other ingredients are mixed with rice flour and water to form a thick batter. This batter is then steamed until it solidifies into a cake. After steaming, the turnip cake can be served as is, or it can be pan-fried to give it a crispy exterior.

Cultural Significance

Turnip cake is a staple dish in Chinese New Year celebrations due to its auspicious symbolism. The word for radish (or turnip) in Chinese, "luóbo", sounds similar to the word for "good fortune". Therefore, eating turnip cake is seen as a way to bring good luck for the coming year.

Variations

There are many regional variations of turnip cake throughout China and other parts of Asia. In Taiwan, for example, turnip cake is often served with a sweet and spicy sauce. In Hong Kong, it is commonly pan-fried and served with soy sauce and chili.

See Also

• Chinese cuisine
• Dim sum
• Chinese New Year
• Cantonese cuisine