Are you on the lookout for delicious and authentic Chinese recipes? Look no further! In this article, you will discover a treasure trove of Chinese turnip recipes that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. From savory stir-fries to comforting soups, these recipes will not only introduce you to the world of Chinese cuisine but also inspire you to explore the versatility of the humble turnip. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of China. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these mouthwatering dishes!
Traditional Chinese Turnip Recipes
Braised Daikon Radish
Braised daikon radish is a classic traditional Chinese dish that is simple yet packed with flavors. To make this dish, you will need daikon radish, soy sauce, sugar, and spices like star anise and cinnamon. The radish is braised until it becomes tender and absorbs all the savory and sweet flavors of the sauce. This dish is often served as a side dish or can be enjoyed on its own with a bowl of steamed rice.
Radish Cake
Radish cake, also known as lo bak go, is a popular snack in Chinese cuisine, especially during festivals like Chinese New Year. This savory cake is made from grated turnip (specifically Chinese white radish), rice flour, and various ingredients like dried shrimp, mushrooms, and Chinese sausages. The mixture is steamed until it solidifies into a soft, dense cake. Radish cake is then sliced and pan-fried until the exterior becomes crispy and golden brown. It is usually served with soy sauce or hoisin sauce on the side.
Turnip Puff
Turnip puffs are a delightful appetizer or snack made with puff pastry and a flavorful turnip filling. The filling is made by sautéing diced turnip with garlic, onions, and spices until tender. The mixture is then stuffed into puff pastry squares, sealed, and baked until golden and crispy. These flaky and savory turnip puffs can be enjoyed on their own or served with a dipping sauce.
Stir-Fried Shredded Turnip
Stir-fried shredded turnip is a simple and delicious dish that can be prepared within minutes. The turnip is julienned or shredded and stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and a combination of sauces like soy sauce and oyster sauce. This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for incorporating turnip into your daily meals.
Turnip Soup with Ham
Turnip soup with ham is a comforting and nourishing dish that showcases the natural sweetness of turnips. This soup is made by simmering turnips, onions, and chunks of ham in a flavorful broth until the turnips are tender. The ham adds a rich and smoky flavor to the soup, making it a perfect choice for a cold winter day or as a starter for a hearty meal.
Fermented Turnip Pickles
Fermented turnip pickles, also known as zha cai or Sichuan preserved vegetable, are a popular condiment in Chinese cuisine. The turnips are shredded and fermented in a mixture of salt, chili, and other spices for several weeks. The result is a tangy, spicy, and savory pickle that can add a burst of flavor to various dishes, such as stir-fries, noodles, and soups.
Healthy Chinese Turnip Recipes
Roasted Turnip Chips
Roasted turnip chips are a healthy alternative to potato chips. These crispy and flavorful chips are made by thinly slicing turnips, tossing them with olive oil and seasoning, and baking them in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy. They are a great snack option for those who are looking for a guilt-free and tasty treat.
Turnip and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Turnip and vegetable stir-fry is a nutritious and colorful dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals. This stir-fry combines thinly sliced turnips with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas. The vegetables are cooked quickly in a hot wok with a flavorful sauce, resulting in a vibrant and crunchy stir-fry that can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
Turnip Greens Salad
Don’t let the greens go to waste! Turnip greens, the leafy tops of the turnip, can be transformed into a refreshing and healthy salad. The greens are lightly blanched or sautéed until tender and then tossed with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. This salad is a great way to add a pop of freshness and nutrients to your meal.
Ginger-Glazed Turnips
Ginger-glazed turnips are a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with various Chinese dishes. The turnips are braised in a mixture of ginger, soy sauce, sugar, and other spices until they become tender and absorb all the savory and sweet flavors. The result is a dish with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Stuffed Turnip Boats
Stuffed turnip boats are a unique and creative way to enjoy turnips as a main dish. The turnips are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings. The stuffed turnips are then baked until the filling is cooked through and the turnip boats are tender. This dish is not only visually appealing but also delicious and satisfying.
Chinese Turnip Recipes for Special Occasions
Turnip Dumplings
Turnip dumplings, also known as chai kueh, are a popular dim sum dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions. These delicate and translucent steamed dumplings are filled with a mixture of shredded turnip, mushrooms, dried shrimp, and other ingredients. The dumplings are then steamed until the wrapper becomes soft and chewy, and the filling becomes flavorful and juicy.
Turnip Cake with Dried Shrimp
Turnip cake with dried shrimp, also known as lo bak go, is a must-have dish during Chinese New Year. This savory cake is made from shredded turnip, rice flour, and dried shrimp, which adds a rich umami flavor to the cake. The mixture is steamed and then pan-fried until it develops a crisp outer layer. Turnip cake is usually served in thick slices, which are then pan-fried to perfection.
Turnips in Black Bean Sauce
Turnips in black bean sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of turnips with the umami richness of black bean sauce. The turnips are stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and black bean sauce until they become tender and absorb all the flavors. This dish is commonly served as a main course alongside steamed rice.
Sweet and Sour Turnip Balls
Sweet and sour turnip balls are a delightful and tangy appetizer that can be enjoyed on special occasions or as a party snack. The turnips are grated and mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings to form a thick batter. The batter is then shaped into small balls and deep-fried until they become golden and crispy. The turnip balls are served with a tangy and sweet sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Spicy Chinese Turnip Recipes
Spicy Stir-Fried Turnip Noodles
Spicy stir-fried turnip noodles are a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional noodles. The turnip is spiralized or julienned into thin strips and then stir-fried with garlic, chili, and other spices until they are tender and infused with flavors. This spicy dish is perfect for those who enjoy a kick of heat in their meals.
Szechuan Style Turnip Stir-Fry
Szechuan style turnip stir-fry is a bold and fragrant dish that showcases the unique and fiery flavors of Szechuan cuisine. The turnips are sliced and stir-fried with Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and chili until they become tender and absorb all the numbing and spicy flavors. This dish is characterized by its fiery red color and intense aromatic profile.
Ma Po Tofu with Turnip
Ma Po tofu with turnip is a mouthwatering and spicy Szechuan dish that combines the creaminess of tofu with the heat and numbing sensation of Szechuan peppercorns. The turnips are diced and cooked together with tofu, ground pork, and a spicy bean paste until they become tender and fully flavored. This dish is often enjoyed with a bowl of steamed rice to balance out the spiciness.
Mapo Mooli (Turnip) Rice
Mapo mooli rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The turnips are grated and cooked together with rice, ground pork, and a combination of spices and sauces until they are fully cooked and infused with flavors. This dish has a rich and savory taste, with the turnips adding a unique texture and sweetness to the rice.
Vegetarian Chinese Turnip Recipes
Turnip and Mushroom Casserole
Turnip and mushroom casserole is a hearty and satisfying vegetarian dish that is loaded with flavors and textures. The turnips and mushrooms are sautéed with onions, garlic, and herbs until they become tender and fragrant. The mixture is then topped with breadcrumbs and cheese, and baked until it forms a golden crust. This casserole is a great choice for a vegetarian main course or a side dish for a holiday feast.
Stir-fried Turnip with Sesame
Stir-fried turnip with sesame is a simple yet tasty vegetarian dish that can be made in a matter of minutes. The turnip is sliced or julienned and stir-fried with garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, which adds a nutty flavor and crunch. This dish can be served as a side dish or incorporated into a stir-fry medley of vegetables.
Turnip and Tofu Curry
Turnip and tofu curry is a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian curry that is packed with spices and vegetables. The turnips and tofu are simmered in a rich and creamy curry sauce, along with onions, tomatoes, and a combination of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. This curry is perfect for those who want to enjoy a vegetarian dish without compromising on taste and flavor.
Turnip and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Turnip and cabbage stir-fry is a simple and light vegetarian dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. The turnips and cabbage are thinly sliced and stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce until they become tender and slightly charred. This stir-fry is not only nutritious but also versatile, as you can add other vegetables or protein of your choice to customize the dish according to your preferences.
Easy Chinese Turnip Recipes
Turnip and Egg Fried Rice
Turnip and egg fried rice is a quick and satisfying dish that can be prepared with leftover rice. The turnip is diced and stir-fried with garlic, onions, and other vegetables until it becomes tender. The rice is then added to the pan along with scrambled eggs and soy sauce, and tossed together until everything is well combined. This dish is perfect for a simple and fuss-free weeknight dinner.
Stir-Fried Turnip with Garlic
Stir-fried turnip with garlic is a classic Chinese dish that is loved for its simplicity and flavors. The turnip is sliced or julienned and stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar until it becomes tender and caramelized. This dish is perfect as a side dish or served alongside other stir-fried dishes.
Turnip and Chicken Stir-Fry
Turnip and chicken stir-fry is a delicious and protein-packed dish that can be prepared in a flash. The turnips and chicken are thinly sliced and stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and a variety of sauces until they are cooked through and infused with flavors. This stir-fry pairs well with steamed rice or noodles and makes a satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Turnip Pancakes
Turnip pancakes are a delightful and crispy alternative to regular pancakes. The turnips are grated and mixed with flour, eggs, and seasonings to form a batter. The batter is then pan-fried until it develops a golden brown crust and a soft and fluffy interior. These savory pancakes can be served as a breakfast option, a side dish, or even as a base for a delicious sandwich.
Turnip and Beef Soup
Turnip and beef soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for colder months. The turnips are simmered together with beef, vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices until they become tender and flavorful. This soup is packed with nutrients, and the combination of turnip and beef creates a rich and hearty broth that can warm you up on a chilly day.
Chinese Turnip Recipes for Breakfast
Turnip Congee
Turnip congee is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish that is commonly eaten in Chinese cuisine. The turnips are cooked together with rice and a flavorful broth until they break down and create a thick and creamy porridge. This congee is often garnished with green onions, crispy fried shallots, and other toppings of your choice, creating a satisfying and nutritious breakfast option.
Scrambled Eggs with Pickled Turnip
Scrambled eggs with pickled turnip is a simple and flavorful dish that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. The pickled turnip adds a tangy and salty flavor to the eggs, while the gentle scrambling technique ensures that the eggs remain fluffy and moist. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served with steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
Turnip and Chive Pancakes
Turnip and chive pancakes are a delicious and savory breakfast option that is loved by many. The turnips and chives are mixed with flour, eggs, and a variety of seasonings to form a thick batter. The batter is then pan-fried until the pancakes develop a golden brown crust. These pancakes can be served with soy sauce or hoisin sauce on the side for dipping.
Turnip Omelette
Turnip omelette is a simple and satisfying breakfast dish that pairs well with toasted bread or steamed rice. The turnips are grated and mixed with beaten eggs, garlic, and seasonings to form a fluffy and flavorful omelette. This dish can be customized with additional ingredients like vegetables or cooked meat to suit your taste.
Chinese Turnip Dessert Recipes
Turnip Rice Pudding
Turnip rice pudding is a unique and delicious dessert that combines the sweetness of turnips with the creamy texture of rice pudding. The turnips are grated and cooked together with rice, milk, sugar, and spices until they become soft and the flavors meld together. This dessert can be served warm or chilled, and is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavor combinations.
Sweet Turnip Soup
Sweet turnip soup is a soothing and comforting dessert that is commonly enjoyed in Chinese cuisine. The turnips are simmered together with rock sugar and other ingredients like dried longan or red dates until they become tender and release their natural sweetness. This sweet soup can be served warm or chilled, and is a popular choice during festive occasions and hot summer days.
Turnip Cake with Coconut Cream
Turnip cake with coconut cream is a decadent and indulgent dessert that will satisfy your sweet cravings. The turnip cake, made from grated turnip and glutinous rice flour, is steamed until it becomes soft and sticky. The cake is then served with a drizzle of creamy and fragrant coconut cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Turnip and Red Bean Paste Pancakes
Turnip and red bean paste pancakes are a delightful and sweet treat that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack. The turnip and red bean paste are mixed together and sandwiched between thin layers of pancake batter. The pancakes are then pan-fried until they become golden and crispy on the outside, while the red bean paste remains soft and gooey on the inside.
Chinese Turnip Soup Recipes
Turnip and Corn Soup
Turnip and corn soup is a simple and nourishing dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. The turnips and corn are simmered together with chicken or vegetable broth until they become tender and the flavors meld together. This soup is often seasoned with a dash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of green onions, creating a bowl of comforting and flavorful goodness.
Beef and Turnip Stew
Beef and turnip stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for colder months. The beef is braised together with turnips, onions, and a rich broth until they become tender and fully flavored. This stew is often slow-cooked to allow the flavors to develop and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Serve this stew with crusty bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Vegetarian Turnip Soup
Vegetarian turnip soup is a light and flavorful dish that is packed with nutrients. The turnips are simmered together with vegetables, herbs, and spices until they become tender and the flavors meld together. This soup is perfect for those who are looking for a light and refreshing option without compromising on taste and flavor.
Winter Melon and Turnip Soup
Winter melon and turnip soup is a cooling and refreshing soup that is commonly enjoyed during hot summer days. The turnips and winter melon are simmered together with other vegetables and herbs until they become tender and release their natural flavors. This soup is often seasoned with a pinch of salt or a dash of soy sauce, creating a light and comforting broth that can help beat the heat.
Chinese Turnip Side Dish Recipes
Sweet and Spicy Turnip Salad
Sweet and spicy turnip salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. The turnip is thinly sliced or julienned and tossed with a dressing made from vinegar, sugar, chili, and other seasonings. This salad can be customized with additional ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, or peanuts for added texture and crunch.
Turnip and Cucumber Pickle
Turnip and cucumber pickle, also known as do chua, is a popular condiment in Chinese cuisine. The turnips and cucumbers are thinly sliced and pickled in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt until they become crisp and tangy. This pickle is a great accompaniment to various dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches, rice bowls, or noodle dishes.
Turnip Mash
Turnip mash is a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The turnips are peeled, boiled until tender, and then mashed until smooth. This mash can be customized with additional ingredients like garlic, butter, or herbs to enhance the flavors. Serve turnip mash as a side dish alongside roasted meats or incorporate it into shepherd’s pie for a twist.
Sesame Turnip Slaw
Sesame turnip slaw is a crunchy and refreshing side dish that can add a burst of flavor and texture to your meal. The turnips are thinly sliced or shredded and tossed with a dressing made from sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. This slaw can be served on its own, used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or paired with grilled meats for a delicious and balanced meal.
