How to Make Turnip Cake (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Turnip Cake, known locally as 'chai tow kway', is a beloved snack found in Singapore's vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams. This savoury delicacy is made from grated turnip (daikon radish), rice flour, and a medley of aromatic ingredients, creating a unique texture that's both soft and lightly crispy when pan-fried. Over the years, Turnip Cake has become a staple not just during festive seasons but as a daily snack enjoyed by people of all ages. Singapore's Turnip Cake reflects the country's rich fusion influences, where traditional recipes meet modern health-conscious adaptations, making it suitable for today's diet-aware foodies. The taste of Turnip Cake is a delightful balance of mild, earthy sweetness from the turnip, umami from mushrooms and seasonings, and a hint of spice from white pepper. It is often enjoyed with a dash of sambal or chilli sauce, adding a local twist. Whether served at breakfast or as a light lunch, this healthy Turnip Cake recipe offers an authentic taste of Singaporean street food culture, while using less oil and more vegetables, making it a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the daikon radish by peeling and grating it finely
Prepare the daikon radish by peeling and grating it finely. Squeeze out excess water and set aside. Soak the shiitake mushrooms until soft and dice finely.
Step 2 · In a non-stick pan
In a non-stick pan, heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Add minced garlic, diced mushrooms, and grated carrot (if using). Stir-fry until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 3 · Add grated daikon to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes
Add grated daikon to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with soy sauce and white pepper.
Step 4 · In a large bowl
In a large bowl, combine rice flour and water. Mix well until smooth. Add the cooked vegetable mixture and chopped spring onions, stirring to combine.
Step 5 · Pour the batter into a lightly greased
Pour the batter into a lightly greased, heatproof dish. Steam over high heat for 30 minutes or until set and firm.
Step 6 · Let the steamed cake cool completely
Let the steamed cake cool completely. Once set, cut into slices.
Step 7 · Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan
Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick pan. Pan-fry turnip cake slices until golden and crisp on both sides. Serve hot with sambal or chilli sauce.
Why this recipe is healthy
Our healthier Turnip Cake skips excessive oil and processed ingredients, focusing on whole, plant-based components. It's vegetarian, can be made vegan, and relies on vegetables for flavour and bulk. This supports weight management, heart health, and balanced nutrition, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a healthy Singaporean snack. The combination of fibre and low-GI carbs helps maintain satiety and stable energy levels.
A note on tradition
Turnip Cake is a classic snack in Singapore, often enjoyed at kopitiams and hawker centres, especially during breakfast or as a light lunch. Its popularity is rooted in the diverse food culture of Singapore, where Chinese heritage dishes are reimagined with local flair. During festive occasions like Lunar New Year, Turnip Cake is a must-have, symbolising prosperity and togetherness. Today, it's celebrated for its adaptability, appearing in both traditional and modern fusion menus across the city.