Pan Fried Daikon Cake, also known as radish cake or turnip cake, is a beloved dim sum dish found in Chinese cuisine. Although it is called “turnip cake,” it’s traditionally made from daikon, a type of Chinese radish. Originating from southern China, particularly in Cantonese cooking, this savory treat is often served during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the pan-fried daikon cake is a satisfying and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or breakfast option.
Whether you’re familiar with dim sum culture or just exploring Chinese recipes, this guide will walk you through making the perfect Pan Fried Daikon Cake right in your own kitchen. We’ll also cover common questions such as “What is Chinese radish cake made of?” and “Is turnip cake healthy?”
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Radish Cake Ingredients
- 1 large daikon radish (about 1 lb), peeled and grated
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and chopped
- 1/4 cup Chinese dried shrimp, soaked and chopped (optional)
- 1 Chinese sausage (lap cheong), diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup scallions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
- Water as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Daikon
- Begin by peeling and grating the daikon radish. Place the grated radish into a colander and sprinkle with a little salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, squeeze out as much water as possible.
Step 2: Cook the Fillings
- In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped dried shiitake mushrooms, dried shrimp, and diced Chinese sausage (if using). Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the ingredients are fragrant and slightly crispy.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated daikon, rice flour, cornstarch, salt, sugar, soy sauce, sautéed mixture, and chopped scallions. Gradually add water, stirring until you achieve a thick, dough-like consistency.
Step 4: Steam the Cake
- Grease a round cake pan or loaf pan with a little oil. Pour the daikon mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly. Steam the cake for about 45 minutes on medium heat until it is firm to the touch. You can test the doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
- Once the cake has finished steaming, let it cool completely, preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This helps the cake firm up, making it easier to slice.
Step 6: Pan Fry the Daikon Cake
- Once chilled, slice the cake into rectangular or square pieces, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Fry each slice for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Tips and Variations
Tips for the Perfect Daikon Cake
- Why is my turnip cake so soft? If your turnip cake is too soft, it may not have been steamed long enough, or the mixture may contain too much water. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated daikon before mixing the batter. Steaming the cake thoroughly is also essential for achieving the right texture.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Chinese sausage and dried shrimp. You can add more mushrooms or even some finely chopped carrots for a pop of color and flavor.
- If you prefer a plain radish cake, simply skip the additional ingredients and seasonings like mushrooms and sausage. The daikon radish on its own offers a mildly sweet flavor that works well as a base.
Variations on Daikon Cake
- Turnip Cake Recipe Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, skip the Chinese sausage and dried shrimp. Instead, increase the amount of shiitake mushrooms and add more aromatics like ginger or five-spice powder for flavor.
- Kathrine Kwa Radish Cake Recipe: This popular version of the radish cake includes minced pork or chicken for an extra protein punch, perfect for those who prefer meatier bites.
- Fried Radish Cake Recipe: After pan-frying, top the daikon cake with a sprinkle of chopped scallions and serve it with soy sauce, chili sauce, or oyster sauce for added flavor.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approx. 4 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Daikon cake is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of fiber from the daikon radish. When opting for the vegetarian version, it can be a healthy and satisfying snack or side dish.
Pan Fried Daikon Cake is a delicious way to experience the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine. Its crispy exterior and tender, savory interior make it a perfect appetizer or snack, whether you’re hosting a dim sum brunch or just craving something different. Plus, with variations like vegetarian or meat-filled options, it’s easy to adapt the recipe to your preferences.