Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)

Lo Bak Go, or turnip cake, is a classic Cantonese dim sum dish made primarily from shredded daikon radish (lo bak) mixed with rice flour, dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, and scallions. The mixture is steamed in a rectangular mold until firm, then sliced into thick pieces and pan-fried until a golden, crispy crust forms on the outside while the inside remains soft and slightly chewy. The combination of textures — crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside — makes Lo Bak Go a textural delight. The savory, umami-rich flavor from the dried shrimp and Chinese sausage infuses every bite. Turnip cake is typically served with a drizzle of oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or a side of chili paste. It is a traditional Lunar New Year food symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, but enjoyed year-round at dim sum restaurants.