Lychee Lotus Mooncake
Introduction
This Lychee Lotus Mooncake is a modern twist on the traditional mooncake, combining the delicate flavors of lychee with the classic richness of lotus paste. Mooncakes are a staple in Chinese culture, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival, which celebrates the harvest season and is a time for family reunions. Over the years, mooncakes have evolved from their traditional fillings to include innovative flavors, appealing to a broader audience.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 500g
- Golden syrup - 320g
- Alkaline water - 1 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil - 100g
- Lotus paste - 600g
- Lychee - 10 pieces, peeled and pitted
- Melon seeds - 30g
- Egg wash - For brushing
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Mooncake molds
- Baking sheet
- Brush for egg wash
- Spatula
- Oven
Preparation
Making the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine golden syrup, alkaline water, and vegetable oil. Stir until well mixed.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Filling
- Combine the lotus paste with crushed lychee and melon seeds.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, approximately 35g each.
Assembling the Mooncakes
- Divide the dough into even portions, about 20g each, and roll them into balls.
- Flatten a dough ball in your palm to create a disc, then place a lychee-lotus paste filling in the center. Gently wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely.
- Lightly dust a mooncake mold with flour, place the filled dough ball inside, and press firmly to shape.
- Carefully remove the shaped mooncake and place it onto a lined baking sheet.
Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the mooncakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each mooncake lightly with egg wash to give them a golden finish. Bake the mooncakes for about 10-15 minutes and then remove them from the oven to cool for 5 minutes. Brush on another layer of egg wash for added color, then return them to the oven to bake for another 10-15 minutes. Monitor closely to ensure they don’t over-bake. Use a cooking timer to help.
How to Enjoy
Allow the mooncakes to cool completely, which enhances their texture and flavor. Enjoy them as part of a festive gathering or as a delightful treat with a cup of tea, perfect for sharing with loved ones. The harmonious blend of lush lychee and smooth lotus paste filling offers a refreshing update to the time-honored mooncake, delighting the palate with each bite.
Conclusion
The lychee and lotus paste mooncake is a testament to how tradition and innovation can create something spectacular. Perfect for celebrations, this mooncake enriches both festive occasions and everyday moments with its unique flavor.