I can still remember the first time I tried Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) – it was during a family trip to Hong Kong, and the moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The crispy golden exterior, the soft, delicate interior, and that irresistible savory flavor had me reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Ever since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, a dish I turn to whenever I’m craving a little taste of Hong Kong right at home.
Why This Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
What sets this Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) recipe apart is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The key is in the preparation – grating the daikon radish just right, using the ideal ratio of rice flour to all-purpose flour, and nailing the cooking time to achieve that signature crispy exterior and pillowy interior. It’s a labor of love, but trust me, the end result is so worth it. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, loved for its savory, umami-packed goodness and its ability to transport you straight to the bustling streets of Hong Kong.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds daikon radish, peeled and grated: The star of the show, the daikon radish lends a sweet, slightly peppery flavor and a wonderfully tender texture to the cake.
- 1 cup rice flour: This is the secret to achieving that irresistible, delicate texture. The rice flour helps bind the ingredients and creates a beautifully light and airy crumb.
- 2 eggs, beaten: The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the cake together and adding a subtle richness.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps balance the rice flour, creating the perfect structure and stability for the cake.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Soy sauce is a must-have, infusing the cake with that signature savory, umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper: A touch of white pepper adds a subtle heat and warmth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for pan-frying, this oil helps create that irresistible golden crust.
- 3 green onions, chopped: These add a lovely freshness and crunch to balance out the richness of the cake.
Step-by-Step Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) Instructions
Preparing Your Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
Prep time for this recipe is just 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 30 minutes, for a total time of 45 minutes. You’ll need a box grater or food processor to grate the daikon radish, a mixing bowl, a nonstick skillet, and a spatula.
1- Begin by peeling and grating the 2 pounds of daikon radish. Grate the radish using a box grater or the grating attachment of a food processor, making sure to get it into fine, uniform shreds.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated daikon radish, 1 cup of rice flour, 2 beaten eggs, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper. Mix everything together until well-incorporated.
3- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Scoop heaping 1/4 cup portions of the daikon radish mixture and gently place them in the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
4- Fry the cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, flipping gently to ensure even cooking.
5- Once the cakes are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6- Garnish the warm Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cakes (Lo Bak Go) with the chopped green onions and serve immediately, while they’re hot and crispy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Grate the daikon radish as finely as possible – this helps create the signature delicate texture.
- Be gentle when handling the cakes during the frying process to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the exterior from burning before the interior is cooked through.
- Serve the cakes immediately for maximum crispiness, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes if they’ve cooled.
Serving and Storing Your Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
Perfect Pairings for Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
This recipe serves 6 people, making it a great dish to share. The savory, umami-rich flavor of the Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Consider serving it alongside steamed rice, a fresh, crunchy salad, or a dipping sauce like chili crisp or a sweet-and-sour dip. For drinks, a refreshing iced tea or a light lager beer would complement the dish perfectly.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place the cakes on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re crispy and heated through.
For longer-term storage, the uncooked daikon radish mixture can be portioned out and frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with the frying instructions.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
Creative Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) Variations
While the classic Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish. Try adding diced Chinese sausage or lap cheong for a delicious twist. You can also experiment with different vegetable additions, like shredded carrot or chopped mushrooms, to change up the flavors. For a festive touch, fold in some chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, just before serving.
Making Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). And for a low-carb option, you can use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour in place of the rice flour and all-purpose flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of radish instead of daikon?
A: While daikon radish is the traditional choice for Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go), you can experiment with other types of radish, like red or watermelon radish. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
Q: How can I get the cakes to be perfectly crispy?
A: To ensure crispy cakes, make sure to grate the daikon radish finely, use the right flour ratio, and fry the cakes in hot oil, flipping them gently to get an even golden-brown crust.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, the uncooked daikon radish mixture can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the portioned-out mixture for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw and proceed with the frying instructions.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) recipe yields 6 servings.
Q: What should I do if the cakes are falling apart during frying?
A: If the cakes are breaking apart, it’s likely because the daikon radish wasn’t grated finely enough or the flour ratio is off. Try grating the radish more finely and adjusting the flour amounts to achieve a better-binding mixture.
Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Enjoy the unique and delightful flavors of Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go), a classic Chinese dim sum favorite. This savory steamed cake is made with grated daikon radish, rice flour, and a blend of aromatic seasonings, resulting in a soft, fluffy, and golden-hued delicacy.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds daikon radish, peeled and grated
– 1 cup rice flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 green onions, chopped
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated daikon radish, rice flour, beaten eggs, all-purpose flour, soy sauce, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until a smooth batter is formed.
2. Grease a 9-inch round steamer-safe baking dish or pan. Pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top.
3. Set up a steamer and bring the water to a boil. Place the dish in the steamer and steam for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Remove the steamed cake from the steamer and let it cool for 5 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate.
5. Garnish the top of the cake with chopped green onions. Serve hot, either as an appetizer or part of a larger dim sum spread.
Notes
For best results, use a firm, watery daikon radish. The grated radish should be well-drained before mixing into the batter. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as a spicy chili oil or a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Chinese
Conclusion
Gold Bar Daikon Radish Cake (Lo Bak Go) is a true culinary gem, a savory treasure that transports me back to the bustling streets of Hong Kong every time I take a bite. With its crispy exterior, soft interior, and irresistible umami flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the magic for yourself. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
