Hue Mooncake Recipe

Hue mooncakes, with their rich history rooted in the imperial cuisines of Vietnam, offer a delectable taste journey intertwined with cultural heritage. Traditionally crafted during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these mooncakes signify unity and togetherness. The recipe reflects the culinary elegance of Hue, once the capital of Vietnam known for its sophisticated and refined dishes.

Ingredients

• Cake Flour
• Golden Syrup
• Lye Water
• Vegetable Oil
• Lotus Seed Paste
• Salted Egg Yolks
• Melon Seeds
• Roasted Peanuts
• Sugar
• Water
• Egg Yolk(for egg wash)

Preparation Time

It's essential to prepare yourself by setting up a cooking timer to keep track of the various stages of this recipe. Anticipate dedicating several hours to complete the mooncakes, allowing time for preparation, resting, and baking.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Golden Syrup Mixture

   Combine golden syrup, lye water, and vegetable oil in a bowl. Mix until homogenous.

2. Make the Dough

   Incorporate the cake flour into the syrup mixture slowly. Knead into a smooth dough, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

3. Prepare the Filling

   Combine lotus seed paste with roughly chopped roasted peanuts and melon seeds. Shape into small balls, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter. Tuck a salted egg yolk into the center of each ball.

4. Shape the Mooncakes

   Divide rested dough into portions slightly larger than the filling. Flatten each piece of dough and encase the filling inside, sealing edges carefully. Use mooncake molds to press them into desired shapes, dusting molds with a light coating of flour to prevent sticking.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat the Oven

   Set your oven to 175°C (or 347°F) while you allow the filled and shaped mooncakes to rest for about 10 minutes.

2. Bake the Mooncakes

   Transfer the mooncakes to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, remove and let cool for 10 minutes. Brush with an egg yolk wash and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.

3. Allow Cooling and Resting

   Once baked, allow the mooncakes to cool and then rest in an airtight container for 1-2 days. This process allows the crust to mature and become soft and tender, integrating its flavors with the filling.

Enjoying Your Hue Mooncakes

Hue mooncakes are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea, making each bite a fusion of delicate, nutty, and sweet tones, balancing the salty richness of the salted egg yolks. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during festivals.