Your cart
There are no more items in your cart
English GB 
中文Mooncakes
Mid-Autumn Festival Recipe: Traditional Mooncakes
Mooncakes are deeply rooted in the history and culture of China, with a tradition that dates back over 1,000 years to the Tang Dynasty. The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, celebrates the harvest and the full moon, symbolising reunion, harmony, and prosperity. Sharing mooncakes with family and friends during this festival is a cherished tradition that reflects the importance of unity and togetherness in Chinese culture.
While mooncakes are a festive treat, they are also dense and rich in calories, making them an indulgent snack. The lotus seed paste is a good source of protein and dietary fibre, while the salted egg yolk adds a unique savoury depth. Due to their richness, mooncakes are typically enjoyed in small portions, making them perfect for sharing.
Mooncakes are designed to be shared. Their round shape represents the full moon and the idea of wholeness and unity. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, it is customary to cut mooncakes into small wedges and share them among loved ones, making this dish a perfect symbol of sharing and celebration.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Dough:
300g all-purpose flour
200g golden syrup
80 ml vegetable oil
1 tsp water
1/4 tsp salt
For the Filling:
500g lotus seed paste or red bean paste (traditional fillings)
100g roasted salted egg yolks (optional, for salted egg yolk filling)
For the Egg Wash:
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp water
 nn.jpg)
.png)
How to Cook:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the golden syrup, vegetable oil, and alkaline water. Mix until the ingredients are fully blended.
Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture. Stir gently to form a soft dough.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the dough to become more pliable and easier to work with.
2. Prepare the Filling:
If using salted egg yolks, cut each yolk in half. If not, prepare your lotus seed paste or red bean paste by dividing it into small balls, approximately 25-30g each.
3. Assemble the Mooncakes:
Divide the dough into small balls (about 30-40g each). Roll each ball flat with a rolling pin, ensuring it is large enough to encase the filling.
Place a portion of the filling in the centre of the flattened dough. If using salted egg yolks, press a yolk half into the filling before wrapping the dough around it.
Carefully shape the dough around the filling, ensuring the filling is fully encased.
4. Shape and Mould:
Dust a mooncake mould with a little flour to prevent sticking. Place the filled dough ball into the mould and press firmly to form the shape.
Gently remove the mooncake from the mould and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Baking:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly brush the mooncakes with the egg wash, which gives them a golden, shiny finish.
Bake the mooncakes for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
Apply another layer of egg wash and return the mooncakes to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
6. Resting:
After baking, allow the mooncakes to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days before serving to allow the dough to soften and the flavours to meld.
Mooncakes are best enjoyed with tea, making them a perfect accompaniment to an evening gathering. This recipe allows you to create a traditional treat that brings the warmth of the Mid-Autumn Festival into your home, no matter where you are.
Sing Kee Supermarket is your one-stop shop for all your Asian grocery needs, offering a wide selection of ingredients perfect for celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival. From the essential lotus seed paste and salted egg yolks to the freshest fruits and teas, you'll find everything you need to make this festival truly special.
