Steam Daikon Cake

Steam Daikon Cake Recipe - Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Servings: 6

Introduction

Steam Daikon Cake, also known as turnip cake, is a traditional Chinese dish that is commonly enjoyed during Lunar New Year celebrations. This savory cake is made with daikon radish, rice flour, and various fillings, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or main course.

History

The origins of Steam Daikon Cake can be traced back to southern China, where daikon radishes are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The cake is believed to have been created as a way to use up leftover ingredients and prevent food waste. Over time, the recipe has evolved and become a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, enjoyed by people all around the world.

Ingredients

Cake base

1.5 lb (680 g) daikon
0.5 lb (227 g) rice flour
1 can chicken broth
0.25 tbsp msg
4 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp white pepper

Filling

1 cup of Chinese sausage
0.5 cup of Chinese dried shrimp
1 cup of Chinese mushroom
2 scallions
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp cooking wine
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

How to prepare

First, remove the skin from the daikon and slice it into thin pieces.
Place the sliced daikon, chicken broth, and the seasonings for the cake base into a pot.
Cook until the daikon becomes soft (approximately 40 minutes).
If the daikon tastes bitter, add more sugar.
If the daikon releases too much water, drain some of it.
While the daikon is cooking, dice the ingredients for the filling.
Stir-fry the ingredients for the filling along with the seasonings until cooked (note: save half of the scallion for later use).
Set the fillings aside.
Once the daikon is soft, slowly stir in the rice flour.
Mix well until the cake base thickens.
After the daikon and rice flour are mixed, stir in the fillings (note: save some of the filling for the topping).
Once everything is mixed, grease the steaming pan with corn oil to prevent the daikon cake from sticking.
Pour the daikon cake mixture into the pan and place the remaining scallion and fillings on top.
Steam the daikon cake over high heat for about 40 minutes.
To check if the cake is well-cooked, insert a chopstick into the center of the cake. If the cake does not stick to the chopstick, it is cooked.
Allow the daikon cake to cool.
You can pan-fry the sliced cake before serving.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the Chinese sausage with bacon or ham for a different twist on the traditional recipe.
Use different seasonings such as garlic powder or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the daikon until it is soft before adding the rice flour to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more sugar if the daikon is bitter or adjusting the salt and pepper levels to suit your preferences.

- Grease the steaming pan well to prevent the daikon cake from sticking during cooking.

- Pan-fry the sliced cake before serving for a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Serving Suggestions

Steam Daikon Cake can be served as a snack or main course. It pairs well with a side of soy sauce or chili sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Steam the daikon cake over high heat to ensure that it cooks evenly and thoroughly.

- Pan-fry the sliced cake in a hot skillet to create a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the daikon radish with turnips or potatoes for a different flavor profile.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Steam Daikon Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the cake in a steamer or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the daikon cake with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the cake on a decorative platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Steam Daikon Cake pairs well with a hot cup of tea or a refreshing glass of iced tea. It can also be enjoyed with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover daikon cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cake in a steamer or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Steam Daikon Cake contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Steam Daikon Cake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Steam Daikon Cake contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Steam Daikon Cake contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Steam Daikon Cake is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and gluten from the soy sauce and rice flour.

Summary

Steam Daikon Cake is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Steam Daikon Cake is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its soft and creamy texture, savory fillings, and aromatic seasonings, this traditional Chinese dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or main course, and savor the flavors of this classic recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear in my heart. It was a brisk autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of cinnamon and cloves. I had just finished visiting the local market to pick up some fresh ingredients for my next culinary experiment when I stumbled upon an elderly woman selling steamed daikon cakes.

Intrigued by the aroma wafting from her stall, I decided to purchase one of her steamed daikon cakes to try. As I bit into the soft and savory cake, my taste buds were overwhelmed with a burst of flavors – the sweetness of the daikon, the umami of the mushrooms, and the subtle hint of ginger and garlic.

I was immediately captivated by the unique and delicious taste of the steamed daikon cake, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. I approached the elderly woman and asked her about the recipe, hoping that she would be willing to share her culinary secrets with me.

To my surprise, the woman smiled warmly and invited me to her humble kitchen behind the stall. She explained that the recipe for steamed daikon cake had been passed down through generations in her family, and she was more than happy to teach me how to make it. As we worked side by side in the cozy kitchen, she shared stories of her childhood and the cherished memories she had of cooking with her mother and grandmother.

I listened intently as she guided me through the process of preparing the steamed daikon cake – from grating the daikon to sautéing the mushrooms and mixing in the fragrant seasonings. She emphasized the importance of patience and precision in cooking, reminding me that the secret ingredient in any dish is love.

After hours of careful preparation and steaming, the steamed daikon cake was finally ready. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of our labor. As I took my first bite of the warm and comforting cake, I was transported back in time to a simpler era, where food was made with care and enjoyed with loved ones.

From that day on, the recipe for steamed daikon cake became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition of homemade cooking and the joy of creating delicious meals from scratch. Every time I make the steamed daikon cake, I am reminded of the kind elderly woman who taught me the recipe and the love and passion she poured into her cooking.

As I sit down to enjoy a slice of steamed daikon cake with a cup of fragrant tea, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that led me to this cherished recipe. Cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also about nourishing the soul and creating lasting memories that bring joy and comfort to our lives. And for that, I am eternally grateful.