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Best Easy Turnip Nian Gao Recipe

Name: Best Easy Turnip Nian Gao Recipe
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 120 g
Ingredients: turnip (daikon radish) 2.5 lbs; rice flour 2 cups; water 1.5 cups; dried shrimp 1.5 oz; Chinese sausage (lap cheong) 2 pieces; shiitake mushrooms 5 pieces; scallions 2 stalks; soy sauce 2 tbsp; sugar 1 tsp; white pepper 0.5 tsp; salt 1 tsp; sesame oil 1 tbsp

Savory turnip nian gao with radish and dried shrimp is a Cantonese festive cake. A family recipe with umami-rich, fresh flavors.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 202 kcal

#Chinese New Year #umami-rich #festive food #savory cake

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

turnip (daikon radish) 2.5 lbs
rice flour 2 cups
water 1.5 cups
dried shrimp 1.5 oz
Chinese sausage (lap cheong) 2 pieces
shiitake mushrooms 5 pieces
scallions 2 stalks

Seasonings/Sauce

soy sauce 2 tbsp
sugar 1 tsp
white pepper 0.5 tsp
salt 1 tsp
sesame oil 1 tbsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 35 g 69%

Protein 4 g 8%

Fat 5 g 23%

Serving size 120g

Cooking steps

1

Peel and grate the turnip (daikon radish). Squeeze out excess liquid and save the liquid for later mixing.
2

Soak dried shrimp and shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 30 minutes. Drain, then finely chop along with the Chinese sausage.
3

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sesame oil, then stir-fry dried shrimp, sausage, and mushrooms for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add grated turnip and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
4

Mix in soy sauce, sugar, white pepper, and salt. Pour in the reserved turnip liquid and water. Bring to a simmer, then gently fold in the rice flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook over low heat until a thick batter forms.
5

Transfer batter into a greased round or square cake pan. Smooth the top, sprinkle with chopped scallions, then steam covered over high heat for 60 minutes, checking water level halfway through.
6

Allow Nian Gao to cool completely before unmolding. For best texture, slice and pan-fry pieces in a little oil until golden before serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What ingredient gives Turnip Nian Gao its signature flavor?

The turnip (daikon radish) is the cornerstone of this recipe, providing the primary flavor and moist yet firm texture. The dried shrimp and Chinese sausage add a deep umami element, enhancing the savory profile that makes this dish distinctive.

Q. What cooking technique keeps the Nian Gao smooth and avoids lumps?

To ensure a smooth, lump-free batter, make sure to gradually mix the rice flour into the simmering turnip mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. This steady heat and constant stirring prevent clumping and allow the flours to hydrate evenly.

Q. How can I get the best texture when serving Turnip Nian Gao?

After steaming, let the Nian Gao cool completely before unmolding. For the best texture, slice cooled pieces and pan-fry them in a bit of oil until each side is golden and crisp, striking a balance between soft, tender inside and crisp exterior.

Q. How many calories or carbs are in one serving?

Each serving is about 120g, containing roughly 202 kcal. Of this, there are 35g of carbohydrates (about 69% of calories), 4g of protein (8%), and 5g of fat (23%).

Best Easy Turnip Nian Gao Recipe

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