Water chestnut cake

A traditional Chinese dessert made from water chestnut flour

A slice of water chestnut cake

Water chestnut cake ( ) is a traditional Chinese dessert that is popular in Cantonese cuisine. It is made primarily from water chestnut flour, sugar, and water, and is known for its translucent appearance and slightly sweet taste.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredient in water chestnut cake is water chestnut flour, which is derived from the water chestnut, a type of aquatic vegetable. The flour is mixed with water to form a batter, which is then sweetened with sugar. Some recipes may include additional ingredients such as coconut milk or osmanthus for added flavor.

The batter is poured into a mold and steamed until it solidifies into a firm, jelly-like consistency. Once cooled, the cake is cut into slices and can be served either cold or pan-fried.

Culinary Uses

Water chestnut cake is often served as a dessert during dim sum meals. It is also a popular treat during the Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. The cake can be eaten as is, or it can be lightly pan-fried to give it a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.

Cultural Significance

In Cantonese culture, water chestnut cake is valued not only for its taste but also for its symbolic meaning. The word "cake" (_, g_o) is a homophone for "high" (_, g_o), representing the wish for growth and improvement in the coming year.

Related pages

• Dim sum
• Chinese New Year
• Cantonese cuisine
• Water chestnut