Chinese Fa Gao, also known as Prosperity Cake or Fortune Cake, is a traditional steamed dessert made during Chinese New Year, weddings, and special occasions. These sweet, fluffy cakes bloom on top when steamed, symbolising good fortune and growth. Their cracked tops are considered lucky, making them a favourite during celebrations.
This recipe will show you step-by-step how to make this soft and light fa gao at home using simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 cup short grain white rice (like sushi rice)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar (plus 1/3 cup or 70g more)
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 drops red food colouring (optional, for a festive look)
- Vegetable oil (for greasing cups)
- Goji berries or golden raisins (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Fa Gao
Step 1: Soak the Rice
Place the rice in a medium bowl and cover it with water (about 5 cm above the rice). Cover the bowl with a plate and let it soak overnight.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of sugar with 1 teaspoon of yeast in 1/2 cup lukewarm water. Let it sit for 15 minutes until it turns foamy.
Step 3: Blend the Batter
Drain the soaked rice and blend it with the yeast water until smooth. Add the flour and the remaining 1/3 cup sugar. Blend again until the batter is smooth and flows like thin pancake batter. Pour it into a large bowl.
Step 4: Let the Batter Rise
Cover the bowl with a plate and place it in a warm spot to ferment for about 2 hours. The batter should rise and double in volume. You can keep it in a closed microwave with a mug of hot water to help it ferment better.
Step 5: Prepare the Moulds
Lightly brush small cups (tea cups, muffin tins, or tart tins) with vegetable oil. Stir the salt, baking powder, and red food colouring (if using) into the puffy batter. Fill the moulds about 70% to 80% full. Top with goji berries or raisins if you like.
Step 6: Steam the Cakes
Fill your steamer with at least 7.5 cm of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, place the cups into the steamer, cover with the lid, and steam over high heat for 25 minutes. Do not open the lid while steaming. After 25 minutes, turn off the heat and let the cakes rest inside the steamer for 5 more minutes.
Tips to Get Perfect Fa Gao
Enjoy the cakes warm for the best taste. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can refrigerate or freeze them, and steam again to reheat. The total prep time includes overnight soaking and 2 hours of resting, but the hands-on work is quite easy.
This recipe makes about 6 to 8 small fa gao cakes. These soft, lightly sweet cakes are not only delicious but also full of meaning. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or just want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try!
FAQs
What does Fa Gao mean?
Fa Gao means Prosperity Cake in Chinese. The word ‘fa’ means to rise or grow, which is why the cakes bloom on top, symbolising good luck and growth.
Can I make Fa Gao without food colouring?
Yes, food colouring is optional. It just gives a festive red colour, often used for celebrations. The cake tastes the same without it.
Why didn’t my Fa Gao rise properly?
If your Fa Gao didn’t rise well, it could be due to inactive yeast, under-fermented batter, or not enough heat during steaming. Make sure the water is boiling before placing the cakes in.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper flavour and works just as well in this recipe.
How should I store leftover Fa Gao?
Keep leftover fa gao in an airtight container. You can refrigerate for 3 days or freeze them. Reheat by steaming again before eating.
