Delicious and Authentic Malaysian Lobak Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of minced pork
  • 1 large carrot, shredded
  • 1 large white radish (lobak), shredded
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 50 grams of cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon of white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • Bean curd skin
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the minced pork, shredded carrot, shredded white radish, minced garlic, beaten egg, cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, salt, and sugar.
  2. Stir the mixture until it becomes a thick paste.
  3. Take a sheet of the bean curd skin and place a portion of the mixture on top, spreading it evenly.
  4. Fold the sides of the bean curd skin inwards and then roll it tightly, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.
  5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until all the mixture is used up.
  6. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
  7. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the rolls into the oil and fry until golden brown.
  8. Remove the rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
  9. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm.

Tools for making

  • Large Bowl - For mixing the ingredients together.
  • Grater - To shred the carrot and white radish.
  • Knife - For mincing the garlic and slicing the lobak rolls.
  • Frying Pan - To fry the lobak rolls.
  • Tongs - To flip and remove the lobak rolls from the frying pan.
  • Paper Towel - To drain excess oil from the lobak rolls.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of meat such as chicken or beef instead of pork.
  • Replace the bean curd skin with spring roll wrappers or rice paper.
  • Add additional vegetables like mushrooms, cabbage, or bean sprouts to the filling mixture.
  • Include some grated cheese or chopped herbs like cilantro or spring onions for added flavor.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the minced meat with tofu or tempeh.
  • Experiment with different seasonings and spices like ginger, five-spice powder, or chili flakes to customize the flavor.
  • Try baking the lobak rolls in the oven for a healthier alternative instead of deep-frying.
  • Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Recipe overview

If you're looking for a classic, flavorful dish from Malaysia, Lobak is the perfect choice. This deep-fried treat, also known as Five Spice Pork Roll, combines a savory pork mixture with the crunch of shredded vegetables, all wrapped in a thin layer of bean curd skin. The result is an aromatic, crispy delight that's perfect as an appetizer or part of a larger meal. This recipe involves simple, step-by-step instructions that guide you through preparing and cooking the Lobak. With a mix of familiar ingredients and traditional seasonings, you'll be able to create this Malaysian favorite right in your own kitchen. So, get ready for a culinary adventure that promises to delight your taste buds and introduce you to the rich, diverse flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of minced pork? Yes, you can substitute minced pork with minced chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
  2. Can I use a different type of vegetable instead of carrot and white radish? Certainly! You can use other vegetables like cabbage, spring onions, or mushrooms to add variety to the filling.
  3. Can I make the rolls ahead of time and fry them later? Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to fry. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Can I bake the Lobak instead of frying? While traditionally Lobak is deep-fried, you can try baking them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  5. What can I serve Lobak with? Lobak can be served as an appetizer or as part of a main course. It pairs well with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even a tangy Thai dipping sauce.
  6. Can I freeze leftover Lobak? Yes, you can freeze any leftover Lobak. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be reheated in the oven or air-fried until heated through.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Knife - For cutting and slicing the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping and slicing.
  • Mixing bowl - To combine the ingredients for the filling.
  • Frying pan - For frying the Lobak rolls.
  • Tongs - To carefully flip and remove the rolls from the hot oil.
  • Paper towels - To absorb excess oil from the fried rolls.

Origin stories

Lobak, a savory dish teeming with the medley of minced pork and shredded vegetables, is steeped in the rich culinary traditions of Malaysia. It hails from the bustling food scene of Penang, an island renowned for its diverse cuisine, where meals are a vibrant tapestry of flavors, each stitch spun from its multicultural society. The dish is particularly celebrated during Chinese New Year, functioning as a delectable symbol of prosperity, good luck, and unity. The emblematic Lobak is not merely a dish, but a testament to the harmonious blending of cultures, an edible microcosm of the Malaysian 'melting pot'.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.