Radish Cake Recipe

Radish Cake Recipe

Radish Cake Recipe: A Comprehensive Guide to Making Authentic Taiwanese Radish Cake

Introduction

Radish cake, also known as lobak ko or chai tow kway, is a traditional Taiwanese dish that is commonly served during the Chinese New Year and other festive occasions.

It is a savory and flavorful cake made with shredded radish, rice flour, and other ingredients.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the authentic Taiwanese radish cake recipe, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for achieving the perfect texture and taste.

Ingredients

For the shredded radish:

• 2 pounds of daikon radish, peeled and shredded
• 1 tablespoon of salt

For the batter:

• 2 cups of rice flour
• 1 cup of tapioca flour
• 3 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of chopped Chinese sausage (optional)
• 1/2 cup of chopped dried shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Radish

In a large bowl, combine the shredded radish and salt.

Mix well and let it sit for 15 minutes.

Use a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out the excess water from the radish.

2. Making the Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice flour, tapioca flour, water, and salt.

Make sure the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Add the Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, cilantro, and sesame oil to the batter (if using).

3. Combining the Radish and Batter

Add the squeezed radish to the batter and mix well.

Make sure the radish is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Check the consistency of the batter; it should be thick and slightly sticky.

4. Steaming the Radish Cake

Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Pour the radish batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and steam for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Cooling and Cutting

Let the radish cake cool completely before cutting it into desired shapes.

It can be served warm or cold, and it can also be pan-fried for a crispy exterior.

Enjoy your homemade Taiwanese radish cake!

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Taste

Use high-quality daikon radish for the best flavor and texture.

Shred the radish finely for a smoother texture.

Squeeze out as much water as possible from the radish to prevent the cake from being too soft.

Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.

Steam the cake for the recommended time to ensure it is cooked through.

Serve the radish cake with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or chili sauce.

Conclusion

Making authentic Taiwanese radish cake is a rewarding culinary experience that allows you to create a delicious and festive dish.

By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can easily recreate this beloved tradition in your own kitchen.

So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on the journey of making the perfect radish cake for your family and friends to enjoy.