Gluten-Free Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Discover the perfect balance of tradition and dietary inclusivity with this Gluten-Free Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go), a healthier twist on the classic dim sum favorite. Made with tender grated daikon radish and a combination of gluten-free rice flour and tapioca starch, this savory dish achieves the same satisfying texture and authentic flavor you love. Infused with umami-rich ingredients like dried shiitake mushrooms, scallions, and optional dried shrimp or Chinese sausage, it’s as versatile as it is delicious. Steamed to perfection and optionally pan-fried for a crispy golden crust, this turnip cake is ideal for gluten-free eaters looking for a comforting centerpiece at dim sum gatherings or an elegant appetizer. Serve it warm with gluten-free soy sauce or chili sauce for a flavor-packed experience!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:90 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 800 g Daikon radish (grated)
• 200 g Rice flour (gluten-free certified)
• 50 g Tapioca starch
• 4 pieces Dried shiitake mushrooms
• 30 g Dried shrimp (optional, for non-vegetarians)
• 1 piece Chinese sausage (gluten-free certified, optional, for non-vegetarians)
• 2 stalks Scallions (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Sesame oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp White pepper
• 300 ml Water
• 2 tbsp Oil (for frying, if desired)

Directions

Step 1

Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes or until softened. If using dried shrimp, soak them in a separate bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes. Drain and dice both the rehydrated mushrooms and shrimp. Dice the Chinese sausage, if using.

Step 2

Peel and grate the daikon radish using a large-hole grater. Place the grated radish and its juices into a large deep pan.

Step 3

Cook the grated daikon radish over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until softened. It will release more liquid as it cooks.

Step 4

While the radish is cooking, mix the rice flour, tapioca starch, salt, and white pepper in a large mixing bowl. Gradually stir in 300 ml of water, mixing until smooth to form a batter.

Step 5

In a small frying pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced mushrooms, shrimp, sausage (if using), and scallions for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

Step 6

Once the daikon radish is cooked and tender, add the sautéed mixture to the radish and stir to combine evenly. Turn off the heat.

Step 7

Gradually pour the flour batter into the radish mixture, stirring continuously to make sure everything is evenly incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 8

Prepare a greased or parchment-lined 8-inch square or round pan. Pour the radish mixture into the pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.

Step 9

Place the pan into a steamer and steam over medium-high heat for 45 minutes. Check periodically to ensure there is enough water in the steamer and refill as needed.

Step 10

Once the turnip cake is fully cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Step 11

To serve, slice the turnip cake into rectangular pieces. Pan-fry the slices in a little oil until golden and crispy on both sides, if desired. Serve warm with your favorite gluten-free soy sauce or chili sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1573.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1851.1

Total Fat 62.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 12.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 75mg	0%
Sodium 3580.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 296.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 33.6g	0%
Total Sugars 32.3g
Protein 35.9g	0%

Vitamin D 616IU	0%
Calcium 379.0mg	0%
Iron 8.2mg	0%
Potassium 3189.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.7%

Protein: 7.6%

Carbs: 62.7%