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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine golden syrup, alkaline water, and vegetable oil. Stir until well mixed.
2. Gradually add all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously until a dough forms.
3. Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Preparing the Filling

1. Combine the lotus paste with crushed lychee and melon seeds.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, approximately 35g each.

Assembling the Mooncakes

1. Divide the dough into even portions, about 20g each, and roll them into balls.
2. 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.
3. Lightly dust a mooncake mold with flour, place the filled dough ball inside, and press firmly to shape.
4. 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.