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As the Lunar New Year approaches, my kitchen transforms into a vibrant hub of flavors where tradition meets creativity. There’s something enchanting about the air filled with the earthy aroma of daikon radish mingling with smoky lap cheong and savory shiitake mushrooms. Each bite of Homemade Turnip Cake (Lo Bock Go) not only captures the essence of the festival but also evokes the warmth of family gatherings, making it a must-have dish during this festive season.

You might think that making this delightful cake is a daunting task, but let me assure you: it’s surprisingly easy! With its satisfying texture and layers of umami flavors, it quickly turns from an exotic delicacy into a beloved staple in your home. The best part? This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate any dietary preferences, so whether you’re serving your vegetarian friends or simply want to indulge in something homemade, this turnip cake is your answer. Get ready to impress your loved ones—because during Chinese New Year, there’s never enough cake!

Why is Turnip Cake a Must-Have?

Savory Delight: Each bite of turnip cake bursts with umami flavors, thanks to the delightful combination of daikon radish, lap cheong, and shiitake mushrooms.
Cultural Significance: This traditional dish connects families and is a symbol of prosperity during Lunar New Year—a true crowd-pleaser!
Easy to Make: Don’t worry about complicated processes; this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master.
Versatile Options: Customize your cake with various ingredients, accommodating both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Try swapping ingredients or adding extra vegetables for a personal touch!
Memorable Experience: Gather around the table with friends and family, indulging in homemade goodness that evokes warm memories and rich traditions.

For more ideas on enhancing your dish, check out our guide on creating the perfect holiday spread.

During Chinese New Year, There’s Never Enough Cake

Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up an extraordinary homemade turnip cake with this handy ingredient list!

For the Base

Daikon Radish – Provides the main structure and flavor; substitute with other varieties of daikon if unavailable.
Rice Flour – Acts as the binding agent for the cake; chose glutinous rice flour for a chewier texture or regular rice flour for a lighter bite.

For the Savory Mix

Lap Cheong (Chinese Sausage) – Adds a savory and sweet flavor; substitute with other cured meats or omit for a vegetarian version.
Dried Shrimp – Imparts a briny depth; can be substituted with extra shiitake mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Shiitake Mushrooms – Brings an earthy taste; opt for fresh or dried, rehydrated mushrooms if unavailable.

For the Flavor Boost

Soy Sauce and Sugar – Enhance the umami and sweet notes in the cake; adjust to taste, and consider low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter version.

Now that you know the ingredients, let’s embark on this delicious culinary adventure, because during Chinese New Year, there’s never enough cake!

How to Make Turnip Cake

Grate: Start by grating the daikon radish using a box grater. This allows the radish to soften quickly when simmered, around 15-20 minutes, until tender and easy to mash.
Simmer: Place the grated daikon in a pot with just enough water to cover it. Simmer gently over medium heat until it becomes soft and pliable. Drain any excess water carefully to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
Combine: In a separate bowl, mix the rice flour with an equal amount of water to create a smooth batter. This mix will act as the glue for your dish.
Sauté: In a skillet, sauté the lap cheong until it’s fragrant and slightly crisp, then add chopped dried shrimp and shiitake mushrooms for another couple of minutes until everything is aromatic and well combined.
Mix: Fold the sautéed mixture into the drained daikon radish carefully, ensuring every piece is coated in the savory blend. Then, fold this mixture into the rice flour batter until thoroughly combined.
Pour: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9″ cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to provide an even surface for steaming.
Steam: Place your cake pan in a bamboo steamer or on a steaming rack. Steam for about 1 hour over high heat, checking for doneness— the cake should be firm to the touch and spring back slightly when pressed.
Cool: Once steamed, allow the turnip cake to cool for about 20 minutes before slicing. For delightful crispness, pan-fry the slices in a bit of oil until golden brown on both sides.

Optional: Drizzle with soy sauce or chili oil for an extra kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Turnip Cakes (Lo Bock Go) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time, you can prepare the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance by following the steaming instructions and allowing it to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain its texture and prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice the cake and pan-fry the pieces in a bit of oil until they’re golden brown and crispy. Enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Turnip Cake

Fridge: Store the turnip cake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This ensures it stays fresh while the flavors meld together beautifully.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months, perfect for enjoying later!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the slices directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside.
Make-Ahead: Preparing your turnip cake ahead of time is a great way to lighten your cooking load during celebrations. Just reheat and serve—because during Chinese New Year, there’s never enough cake!

Expert Tips for Turnip Cake

Well-Drained Radish: Ensure the daikon radish is thoroughly drained after simmering to prevent excess moisture from ruining the cake’s texture.
Firm Texture: Steam until completely set; a firm cake is easier to slice and holds its shape well for serving.
Line Your Steamer: If using a bamboo steamer, line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal seamless.
Pan-Fry for Crispiness: Slicing and pan-frying the turnip cake adds a delightful crunch that enhances the flavors, making each bite unforgettable.
Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite proteins or vegetables. During Chinese New Year, there’s never enough cake when options abound!

What to Serve with Turnip Cake?

Each bite of this savory delight opens the door to a world of flavors, inviting you to create an unforgettable meal.

Soy Sauce: A classic condiment that enhances the umami taste of the turnip cake, offering a salty kick that complements its softness.
Chili Oil: Drizzle this flavorful oil for an extra layer of warmth and spice, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat with their dish.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Fresh, crisp bok choy adds a vibrant color and light crunch, balancing the richness of the cake with its refreshing flavor.
Pickled Ginger: The bright acidity of pickled ginger helps cleanse your palate, paired beautifully with the savory notes of the turnip cake.
Steamed Dumplings: Serving dumplings alongside creates a delightful dim sum experience, enhancing the celebration atmosphere for any Lunar New Year gathering.
Green Tea: Offering a delicate contrast, warm green tea brings a soothing element to your meal, inviting relaxation and contemplation.

Elevate your dining experience with these pairings, as there’s never enough cake to go around during Chinese New Year!

Turnip Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this turnip cake recipe, and enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!

Taro Twist: Substitute daikon with taro for a creamy, sweet flavor that adds a delightful twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit lap cheong and dried shrimp, adding cubed tofu and a splash of soy sauce for a meaty texture.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped scallions, bell peppers, or carrots to enhance the freshness and vibrancy of each bite.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rice flour to maintain the cake’s chewy texture while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Spicy Kick: Add a finely chopped chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat in their dish.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions into the batter for a herby freshness that brightens the flavor.
Mushroom Medley: Mix shiitake with other mushrooms like oyster or button for a complex earthy flavor profile that excites the palate.
Savory Broth: Swap water for homemade vegetable stock during simmering for an enriched flavor throughout the cake.

With these variations, you can create a turnip cake that resonates with everyone at your table this Lunar New Year!

Turnip Cake (Lo Bock Go) Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right daikon radish for my turnip cake?
Absolutely! When choosing daikon radish, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or blemishes. A fresh daikon should feel heavy for its size and have a bright white coloration. If unavailable, you can substitute with other varieties like Korean mu.

How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
You can store leftover turnip cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will continue to develop, enhancing your next meal. Make sure to let the cake cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture.

Can I freeze turnip cake, and what’s the best way to do it?
Very! For freezing, slice the cake into individual pieces, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the cake fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them directly from frozen.

What if my turnip cake is too soft after steaming?
The more the merrier, don’t worry! If your turnip cake is soft, it may need to steam longer. Make sure to check the firmness by pressing lightly on the top—if it springs back, it’s good to go! Also, ensure the daikon has been properly drained to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.

Is this turnip cake suitable for my vegetarian friends?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the lap cheong and dried shrimp, and instead, add more shiitake mushrooms or your favorite vegetables for added texture. Make sure to use gluten-free rice flour if dietary restrictions apply.

What’s the best way to reheat turnip cake slices for serving?
For deliciously crispy slices, reheat the cake in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until they’re golden brown on both sides. This not only warms the cake but also adds that delightful crispiness that everyone loves!