Su Su 月饼
Introduction to Su Su 月饼
Su Su 月饼, also known as Jiangsu-Style Mooncake, is a traditional Chinese pastry that originates from the Jiangsu province in China. This delicacy is typically enjoyed during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time of family gatherings and moon viewing in Chinese culture. Known for its flaky crust and savory fillings, Su Su 月饼 represents a unique regional variation in the vast world of mooncakes.
The Su Su 月饼 distinguishes itself with a layered pastry crust, akin to that of a puff pastry, which gives it a distinct texture and flavor. It combines the rich traditions of Chinese baking with the flavors of its locale, featuring ingredients like lotus seed paste and salted egg yolks. The preparation involves careful craftsmanship, reflecting the artistry of Chinese culinary techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Ingredients for Su Su 月饼
- All-purpose flour - 250g
- Cake flour - 100g
- Lard - 120g
- Vegetable oil - 50g
- Sugar - 80g
- Water - 100ml
- Lotus seed paste - 400g
- Salted egg yolks - 8 pieces
- Egg yolk (for egg wash) - 1
- Milk (for egg wash) - 1 tbsp
Preparation of Su Su 月饼
Before you begin the preparation of Su Su 月饼, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature, especially lard and lotus seed paste.
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour and cake flour. In another bowl, melt the lard and combine it with vegetable oil, sugar, and water. Gradually add the liquid mixture into the flours, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough briefly until smooth, then let it rest for 30 minutes covered with a damp cloth.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
Divide the lotus seed paste into 40g portions and wrap each portion around one salted egg yolk. Roll the filling into a smooth ball. Repeat until all filling and yolks are used.
Step 3: Assembling the Mooncakes
Preheat your oven to 175°C (347°F). Divide the dough into portions slightly larger than the filling (about 50g each). Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a disc. Place a ball of filling in the center of the disc and carefully wrap the dough around it, ensuring that the filling is completely enclosed.
Cooking Process
Step 4: Baking the Mooncakes
Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the assembled mooncakes seam-side down, spacing them adequately to allow for expansion.
Prepare an egg wash by beating a single egg yolk with milk. Lightly brush the mooncakes with the egg wash, which will give them a beautiful golden sheen once baked.
Bake the mooncakes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Be sure to rotate the tray halfway through baking for even coloring. Set a cooking timer if necessary to avoid over-baking.
Enjoying Su Su 月饼
Once baked, let the mooncakes cool before serving. Su Su 月饼 are best enjoyed with a pot of Chinese tea to balance the richness of the pastry. They make a lovely addition to any Mid-Autumn Festival celebration, bringing a slice of Jiangsu tradition to your gathering. Whether shared among family or gifted to friends, these mooncakes are a savory reminder of China's culinary heritage.