Mouthwatering Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go: A Family Tradition

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s a certain comfort that comes with the warm embrace of home-cooked meals, and nothing embodies that feeling quite like Turnip Cake, or Lo Bak Go, as it s lovingly known in Cantonese. Picture this: you enter the kitchen, and the rich aroma of stir-fried ingredients fills the air, a delightful prelude to a treasured family recipe that has graced our table for generations. Packed with the savory notes of daikon radish, complemented by the umami richness of dried shrimp and Chinese sausage, this dish is so much more than a simple snack; it s a cherished tradition, especially on festive occasions like Chinese New Year.

What excites me most about this turnip cake is its remarkable versatility. Whether you follow the classic recipe or choose to adapt it for a vegetarian or vegan diet, each bite delivers a medley of textures, from the soft, tender interior to the crispy pan-fried exterior. It s the ultimate savory delight that begs to be shared perfect for dim sum gatherings or just a cozy night in. Let s dive into making this delightful dish together, and trust me, you ll never think of fast food the same way again!

Why is Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go so special?

Warm, Family Tradition: This recipe is steeped in love, passed down through generations, bringing everyone to the table.
Unmatched Versatility: Whether you re a meat lover or a vegan, this recipe seamlessly adapts to your dietary preferences.
Savory, Flavorful Delight: The combination of daikon radish, dried shrimp, and Chinese sausage will tantalize your taste buds, igniting a flavor explosion.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this dish fits effortlessly into any meal plan.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its unique textures, from soft to crispy, make it a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Join me in creating this delightful Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go that will surely replace your cravings for fast food!

Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go Ingredients

For the Batter

• Neutral Oil Ideal for stir-frying and greasing; you can also use vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.
• Dried Shrimp This ingredient adds a rich umami flavor; just make sure it s washed and chopped. Substitute with fresh shrimp if desired.
• Dried Shiitake Mushrooms These provide depth and earthiness; be sure to soak them in hot water before use. Fresh mushrooms can also be a great alternative.
• Chinese Sausage It contributes a beautiful sweetness and richness; for a vegetarian option, use soy or vegan sausage.
• Scallion Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; if you don t have it, green onions can work as a substitute.
• Daikon Radish (Chinese Turnip) The star of the show! Look for a heavy one to ensure it has high moisture content.
• Water Essential for mixing; adjust between 1 to 2 cups based on your preferred moisture level.
• Rice Flour The main base for the cake; be sure to use regular rice flour and not glutinous rice flour to avoid gummy results.
• Cornstarch Helps to bind the cake together and is key for adjusting texture.

For Seasoning

• Salt A fundamental flavor enhancer; adjust to your taste.
• Sugar Balances the savory elements; you can tweak it to your preference.
• White Pepper Adds a hint of warmth; alternatively, you might use black pepper, but it will yield a different flavor.

Optional for Serving

• Oyster Sauce This is a great optional addition to serve alongside, enhancing the overall umami flavor.

Now that you have the essential Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go ingredients, gather your supplies and prepare for a delightful cooking experience!

How to Make Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go

1. Soak the dried shrimp and mushrooms in hot water until they are fully hydrated, which usually takes about 30 minutes. This step enhances their flavor and texture.

2. Heat a generous drizzle of neutral oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the soaked shrimp, mushrooms, and sliced Chinese sausage, stir-frying for about 5 minutes until everything is fragrant and cooked through. Stir in the chopped scallion, then remove from heat.

3. Combine the grated daikon radish with 1 cup of water in the same wok. Bring it to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the radish to soften and release its moisture.

4. Mix the rice flour and cornstarch in a separate bowl with ½ cup of water, adjusting the water for your desired batter consistency. Stir until you have a smooth mixture.

5. Combine the radish mixture and flour mixture in one bowl. Add salt, sugar, white pepper, and the stir-fried ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly until it resembles a thick pancake batter.

6. Grease a loaf or round pan with oil, then pour in the batter. Spread it evenly, making sure there are no air bubbles.

7. Steam the cake over medium-high heat: for a loaf pan, steam for about 50 minutes; for a round pan, about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the steamed cake for 30 minutes before slicing into ½-inch pieces.

9. Pan-fry the slices in a little oil over medium heat until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Serve warm with a drizzle of oyster sauce or chili oil.

Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go

• Avoid Gummy Textures: Use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour to prevent a sticky consistency in your turnip cake.
• Adjusting Moisture: More water creates a softer, pudding-like cake, while less gives you a firmer texture; find your perfect balance for the turnip cake.
• Ease of Cutting: Chill the cake before slicing it firms up beautifully and slices much easier, preventing crumbling.
• Maximize Crispiness: For an extra crispy exterior, pan-fry the cooked turnip cake slices in oil until golden brown.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding garlic or ginger to the stir-fry mix for an extra layer of flavor that elevates your turnip cake experience.

What to Serve with Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go?

Elevate your dining experience by complementing your turnip cake with delightful sides and beverages, creating a feast for the senses.

• Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled veggies contrasts beautifully with the savory cake, adding brightness to every bite.
• Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil brings a spicy kick, heightening the flavors while providing a fiery touch that many love.
• Soy Sauce: A classic pairing, soy sauce enhances the dish s umami notes and adds a salty depth that harmonizes perfectly.
• Steamed Bok Choy: The crisp texture of steamed bok choy provides a fresh contrast, balancing the richness of the turnip cake with its subtle earthiness.
• Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a hint of vinegar acts as a palate cleanser, making each bite of the cake feel new and exciting.
• Tea: Serve with a pot of jasmine or oolong tea; the fragrant notes of the tea create a calming backdrop to the savory delight of the turnip cake.
• Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavor of sesame noodles complements the turnip cake, and their chewy texture provides an enjoyable variety in your meal.
• Mango Pudding: For dessert, this creamy and sweet treat provides a perfect finish, contrasting the savory flavors with its luscious sweetness.
• Szechuan Peppers: If you re feeling adventurous, toss a few Szechuan peppers into your dipping sauce for a surprising and mouth-tingling finish.

Each of these pairings enhances the flavor profile of the turnip cake, creating a memorable meal that echoes tradition and warmth.

Make Ahead Options

These Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and steam the cakes up to 3 days in advance, ensuring you have a savory treat ready when you re tight on time. Just steam the cake according to the recipe, let it cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you re ready to serve, simply pan-fry the slices until golden and crispy they ll be just as delicious as when first made! For longer storage, you can also freeze the steamed cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before frying, and you ll have a flavorful dish in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!

Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this beloved dish with tasty twists that excite your taste buds.

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit dried shrimp and Chinese sausage; add firm tofu and extra veggies for delightful texture and flavor.

• Seasonal Veggies: Swap out daikon radish for seasonal options like butternut squash or carrots for a fresh take.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the stir-fry to elevate the heat level.

• Mushroom Medley: Combine shiitake mushrooms with fresh oyster or cremini mushrooms for a complex earthy flavor.

• Savory Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the batter for a greater depth of flavor.

• Mixed Grains: Use half rice flour and half quinoa flour for a nutritious twist on the classic texture.

• Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped cilantro or Thai basil into the batter to impart a refreshing fragrant note.

• Zesty Dip Options: Experiment with a tangy soy-lime dipping sauce for a unique flavor pairing that complements the dish perfectly.

Storage Tips for Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go

Fridge: Store leftover turnip cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and ready for your next meal.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the turnip cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Reheating: To enjoy your turnip cake, pan-fry the slices in a bit of oil over medium heat until crispy and heated through. This method enhances the texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead: You can make the turnip cake ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze, providing you with a delicious, homemade option that s easy to prepare when time is short.

Turnip Cake Lo Bak Go Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right daikon radish for my turnip cake?
Absolutely! When choosing a daikon radish, look for one that feels heavy for its size. It should be firm, with no dark spots or blemishes. A high water content in the radish contributes to the cake s texture, making it moist and flavorful when cooked.

What is the best way to store leftover turnip cake?
To keep your leftover turnip cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have more leftovers than you can eat, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating!

Can I freeze turnip cake, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze turnip cake, first let it cool completely after steaming. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and pan-fry the slices in a little oil until crispy and warmed through.

What should I do if my turnip cake falls apart when I slice it?
If your turnip cake crumbles when slicing, it might need a little adjustment in moisture levels next time. A firm cake can also result from not enough cornstarch or rice flour. Ensure to follow the water measurements for a thicker consistency; you may also chill the cake before slicing to help it hold its shape better.

Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe?
Definitely! This turnip cake can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting the dried shrimp and Chinese sausage. You can replace them with tofu or even your favorite vegetables for added flavor. Just ensure to check any ingredient labels for allergens and your dietary restrictions.

How long does turnip cake stay fresh?
Turnip cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When frozen properly, it stays fresh for about 3 months. Always pan-fry before serving for that perfect golden, crispy exterior it truly makes all the difference!