Creamy taro is combined with rice flour and savory bits, then steamed and pan-fried for crispy edges. This family dim sum classic has a naturally sweet, nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and sauté the diced Chinese sausage for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Add diced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, then add the taro cubes and stir to combine.
Pour in 1 cup of water, season with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar, and simmer with a lid for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, whisk rice flour with the remaining 1.5 cups of water to form a smooth batter with no lumps.
Start heating a steamer. Fold the cooked taro mixture and sliced scallions into the rice batter, mix gently, then pour into a greased 9-inch round or square cake pan.
Place the pan in the steamer and steam over high heat for 50–60 minutes, topping off the steamer water as needed to maintain steady steam.
Let the taro cake cool completely before slicing; for crispy edges, pan-fry cake slices over medium-high heat with the remaining oil until golden and crisp.