Luo Han Guo Mooncake

Mooncakes are a traditional pastry celebrated during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time when families gather to enjoy the full moon and share in the beauty and bounty of this tradition. Originating from China, mooncakes are synonymous with unity, celebration, and tradition. One variant that infuses health benefits and distinctive sweetness into the mix is the Luo Han Guo Mooncake. Luo Han Guo, also known as monk fruit, is a green, round fruit that has been used for centuries in China for its natural sweetness and medicinal qualities. This unique fruit complements the traditional flavor profile of mooncakes wonderfully, offering a modern twist on a beloved classic.

Ingredients

• Flour
• Vegetable Oil
• Luo Han Guo Powder
• Lotus Seed Paste
• Egg Yolk
• Baking Soda
• Golden Syrup
• Lye Water
• Water
• Salt
• Sugar

Preparation

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and the prepared Luo Han Guo powder.
2. Add golden syrup, vegetable oil, and lye water to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 1 hour, allowing the ingredients to meld properly.

Prepare the Filling

1. Take the lotus seed paste and mix with a small amount of sugar for extra sweetness if desired.
2. Weigh out approximately 25-30g of this mixture and roll into small balls for each mooncake.
3. If using salted egg yolks, rinse and soak them briefly with water to reduce the salinity before using.

Assembly

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Divide the dough into small pieces, around 20-25g each, which will cover the filling.
3. Flatten each piece of dough and wrap it around the lotus seed paste balls prepared earlier.
4. Place a salted egg yolk in the center of each filling ball and encase it with the dough completely.
5. Mold each ball into a mooncake shape using a mold, ensuring the shape is well-defined.
6. Arrange the mooncakes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each piece.

Cooking Process

1. Bake the mooncakes in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from oven and brush each mooncake with a thin layer of beaten egg yolk wash to give them a golden hue.
3. Return the mooncakes to the oven and continue to bake for another 15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Once baked, let the mooncakes cool on a wire rack before serving.

How to Enjoy

Enjoy the Luo Han Guo Mooncakes at room temperature, paired with a fragrant cup of tea. These mooncakes can be stored in an airtight container and are best enjoyed within a week of baking. Their slightly sweet taste combined with the delicate filling and rich egg yolk makes them a perfect indulgence during the celebratory Mid-Autumn season. Whether shared with family or given as gifts, the delightful blend of traditional flavors with the health benefits of Luo Han Guo ensures that these mooncakes stand out among their peers.