Luo Bo Gao (Chinese Radish Cake)

 Luo Bo Gao (萝卜糕) is a traditional and popular food in Chinese cuisine. It is also called Chinese Radish Cake. This dish is soft, savory, and full of flavor. People in China often eat it during the Chinese New Year because it is believed to bring good luck and success.

Let’s learn more about this delicious cake, its name, its history, and how you can make it at home.

The History of Luo Bo Gao 

Luo Bo Gao comes from southern China, especially from Cantonese (Guangdong) cuisine. People have made this dish for hundreds of years. It became popular during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Long ago, people made this dish with simple and cheap ingredients, like radish and rice flour. Later, it became richer, with dried shrimp, mushrooms, and Chinese sausage added. Today, you can find Luo Bo Gao in Chinese homes, markets, and even luxury restaurants—especially during special holidays.

During Chinese New Year, families prepare this cake and serve it to guests. It is not only tasty, but also symbolic.

What Does the Name "Luo Bo Gao" Mean?

• Luo Bo (萝卜) means “white radish” (also called daikon).

• Gao (糕) means “cake.” It is not sweet, but soft and steamed.

There is also a lucky meaning in the name. The word “gao (糕)” sounds the same as the word “gao (高),” which means “high” or “rise” in Chinese. So eating this cake means that your life, career, or studies will rise in the new year.

It is a traditional way to wish for progress and success.

How to Make Luo Bo Gao ?

Ingredients:

• 1 large white radish (daikon) – about 800 grams, grated

• 1 cup rice flour

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon sugar

• 2 tablespoons dried shrimp (optional)

• 1 Chinese sausage (lap cheong), chopped (optional)

• 2 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

• Black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the radish:
   Grate the white radish and put it in a pan. Cook it over medium heat for 5–10 minutes until soft. Keep both the radish and the liquid. Do not throw the water away.

2. Prepare the toppings:
   In another pan, heat some oil. Lightly fry the dried shrimp, chopped sausage, and mushrooms until they smell good.

3. Make the batter:
   In a big bowl, mix the cooked radish, its liquid, rice flour, cornstarch, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Then add the fried toppings. Mix everything well. It will look like a thick paste.

4. Steam the cake:
   Pour the mixture into a greased cake pan or dish. Use a spoon to flatten the top. Steam it over boiling water for about 50 to 60 minutes. You can use a bamboo steamer or a normal steaming pot.

5. Cool and serve:
   After steaming, let the cake cool completely. Put it in the fridge for 4–5 hours, or overnight. Then cut it into slices and fry them in a pan until golden brown.

Luo Bo Gao is more than just food. It is a symbol of family, tradition, and good wishes. Every bite reminds people of the past and gives hope for the future. Whether you are celebrating Chinese New Year or just trying something new, this dish brings warmth and meaning to the table.

Try making it at home, and share a piece of Chinese culture with your loved ones!