Taro Vs Turnip Cake: The Battle Of The Best

In the world of dim sum, two popular dishes often steal the show: taro cake and turnip cake. Both made with grated root vegetables, these savory cakes are beloved for their unique flavors and textures. But which one is the better choice? Let’s dive into a culinary comparison of taro vs turnip cake to help you decide.

Taro Cake: A Tropical Delicacy

Taro cake, also known as taro koek or taro gao, is a Southeast Asian delicacy made with taro root. This starchy root vegetable has a distinct purple or white color and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. When grated and combined with rice flour, water, and seasonings, taro creates a smooth, creamy batter that is steamed until firm.

Characteristics of Taro Cake:

• Color: Taro cake typically has a vibrant purple or white color, depending on the type of taro root used.
• Texture: It has a soft, chewy texture with a slight crunch from the preserved radish or dried shrimp often added as fillings.
• Flavor: Taro cake offers a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, with a nutty undertone from the taro root.
• Common Fillings: Taro cake is often filled with savory ingredients such as Chinese sausage, preserved radish, dried shrimp, and mushrooms.

Turnip Cake: A Traditional Dim Sum Dish

Turnip cake, also known as lo bak goh or lo boh gao, is a classic dim sum dish originating from China. Made with grated white turnips, rice flour, and seasonings, turnip cake is a versatile dish that can be steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried.

Characteristics of Turnip Cake:

• Color: Turnip cake typically has a white or pale yellow color, depending on the type of turnip used.
• Texture: It has a firm, slightly chewy texture with a crispy exterior when pan-fried or deep-fried.
• Flavor: Turnip cake offers a savory, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of peppery notes from the white turnips.
• Common Fillings: Turnip cake is often filled with savory ingredients such as Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and shiitake mushrooms.

Comparing Taro Cake and Turnip Cake

Now that we have a better understanding of each dish, let’s compare them side by side:

1. Taste:

• Taro Cake: Taro cake has a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, with a nutty undertone from the taro root.
• Turnip Cake: Turnip cake offers a savory, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of peppery notes from the white turnips.

2. Texture:

• Taro Cake: Taro cake has a soft, chewy texture with a slight crunch from the fillings.
• Turnip Cake: Turnip cake has a firm, slightly chewy texture with a crispy exterior when pan-fried or deep-fried.

3. Appearance:

• Taro Cake: Taro cake typically has a vibrant purple or white color, depending on the type of taro root used.
• Turnip Cake: Turnip cake typically has a white or pale yellow color, depending on the type of turnip used.

4. Versatility:

• Taro Cake: Taro cake is typically steamed, but it can also be pan-fried or deep-fried.
• Turnip Cake: Turnip cake can be steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, making it a more versatile dish.

In a nutshell: Choosing the Best Cake for Your Taste

Whether you prefer the unique flavors of taro cake or the classic savory taste of turnip cake, both dishes offer a delicious and satisfying culinary experience. Ultimately, the choice between taro cake and turnip cake comes down to personal preference. Experiment with both dishes to discover which one captures your taste buds and becomes your favorite dim sum delicacy.

What You Need to Know

1. What is the difference between taro cake and turnip cake?

• Taro cake is made with grated taro root, while turnip cake is made with grated white turnips. Taro cake typically has a purple or white color, while turnip cake has a white or pale yellow color. Taro cake has a soft, chewy texture, while turnip cake has a firm, slightly chewy texture.

2. Which cake is more popular, taro cake or turnip cake?

• Both taro cake and turnip cake are popular dim sum dishes, but turnip cake is generally considered to be the more traditional and widely available option.

3. Can taro cake and turnip cake be made at home?

• Yes, both taro cake and turnip cake can be made at home with the right ingredients and equipment. However, they can be time-consuming to prepare, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

4. What are some common fillings for taro cake and turnip cake?

• Common fillings for taro cake include Chinese sausage, preserved radish, dried shrimp, and mushrooms. Common fillings for turnip cake include Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, and water chestnuts.

5. How should taro cake and turnip cake be served?

• Both taro cake and turnip cake can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. They are often served with a dipping sauce, such as soy sauce or chili sauce.