Dim Sum: Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Transform your dim sum experience with this authentic vegan version of Lo Bak Go! This Chinese turnip cake, traditionally made with daikon radish and rice flour, gets a plant-based makeover without losing any of its classic charm. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – just like you remember from your favorite dim sum restaurant!

A Personal Note:
Growing up, watching my mom make Lo Bak Go was a cherished memory. It was always a must-order at dim sum restaurants, but finding a vegan version proved challenging since traditional recipes use dried shrimp and Chinese sausage. After recreating my mom's recipe with a vegan twist, I was amazed at how simple and delicious it turned out!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1.5 hours
Servings: 12-16 pieces

Essential Equipment:
• 7" x 7" square metal baking dish (or bread pan)
• Steamer (instant pot, large pan with steam rack, or bamboo steamer)
• Food processor, mandoline, or cheese grater (large holes)

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cake:
• 4 cups Rice Flour
• 3 cups Water
• 2½ lbs Daikon Radish, shredded
• ½ cup Dried Black Chinese Mushrooms, finely diced
• 1 cup Reserved Mushroom Soaking Water
• 1 tsp No Beef Bouillon (for enhanced umami flavor)
• 1½ tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 2 Tbs Oil (plus more for frying)

For Serving (Optional):
• Garlic Sriracha Sauce
• Tamari
• Chopped Green Onions

PREPARATION:
1. Prep the Mushrooms:
   - Soak dried mushrooms in hot water for at least 2 hours (overnight preferred)
   - For enhanced umami depth, add 1 tsp No Beef Bouillon to the mushroom soaking water
   - Finely dice mushrooms into tiny squares
   - Reserve 1 cup of the enhanced soaking liquid

👨‍🍳 Chef's Tip: The secret to getting that rich, traditional Lo Bak Go flavor without animal products is using No Beef Bouillon in the mushroom soaking liquid. The mushrooms will absorb this savory depth, creating layers of umami that make this vegan version truly authentic!

2. Prepare the Daikon:
   - Shred daikon using food processor or large-hole cheese grater
   - Aim for long strips for authentic texture

3. Make the Batter:
   - In a large bowl, gradually whisk water into rice flour
   - Mix until smooth with no lumps
   - Set aside

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the Filling:
   - Heat large pan/wok over medium heat
   - Add mushrooms and a splash of mushroom water
   - Cook for 5 minutes
   - Add shredded daikon and remaining mushroom water
   - Mix well, cover, and cook for 5 minutes
   - Stir, re-cover, and cook another 10 minutes
   - Season with salt and pepper
   - Turn off heat

2. Combine & Steam:
   - Gradually stir rice flour mixture into daikon mixture
   - Continue stirring until mixture thickens
   - Pour into well-oiled baking dish
   - Smooth top with spatula
   - Steam for 40 minutes
   - Test with toothpick - should come out clean

3. Final Steps:
   - Let cool slightly
   - Loosen edges with spatula
   - Place parchment paper on cutting board
   - Invert cake onto paper
   - Cut into squares

COOKING OPTIONS:

Pan Frying:
• Heat oil in large pan
• Fry pieces until crispy on both sides

Air Fryer Method:
• Preheat to 350°F
• Lightly coat pieces with oil
• Air fry 10 minutes per side
• Arrange in single layer, not touching

Storage Tips:
• Freezes well for future meals
• Will keep in fridge for 3-4 days
• Reheat in pan or air fryer for best results

Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot with your choice of:
• Garlic sriracha sauce
• Tamari
• Chopped green onions
• Your favorite dim sum dipping sauce

Pro Tips:
• Long shreds of daikon create the best texture
• Don't skip squeezing excess water from the daikon
• Using No Beef Bouillon in the mushroom soaking water adds restaurant-quality depth
• The cake should feel firm when steamed properly
• For crispier results, let the cake cool completely before frying

This recipe yields plenty, so you can freeze some for later or enjoy them with every meal (trust me, they're that addictive!). Perfect for dim sum at home or whenever you're craving these savory cakes.

Enjoy your homemade vegan Lo Bak Go! 🥢✨

Enjoy!