Mung Bean Mooncakes (Mooncakes made with press mold) — The 350 Degree Oven from www.the350degreeoven.com
Introduction
Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese pastry that is eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, which falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. These cakes are round, symbolizing unity and completeness, and are often filled with sweet or savory fillings. Making mooncakes is a labor-intensive process, but it is a rewarding experience that you can share with your loved ones. In this article, we will share with you a detailed recipe for making mooncakes at home.
Ingredients
To make mooncakes, you will need the following ingredients: For the pastry dough: - 300g of all-purpose flour - 40g of icing sugar - 1/4 tsp of salt - 1/4 tsp of baking soda - 1 egg yolk - 50ml of vegetable oil - 80ml of water For the filling: - 150g of lotus seed paste - 50g of salted duck egg yolk, steamed and mashed - 20g of toasted sesame seeds - 20g of roasted peanuts, ground - 20g of melted butter - 1 tsp of caster sugar For the glaze: - 1 egg yolk, beaten - 1 tsp of water
Instructions
Step 1: Make the pastry dough
1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, icing sugar, salt, and baking soda. 2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add in the egg yolk, vegetable oil, and water. 3. Use a spatula to mix the wet and dry ingredients until a dough forms. 4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. 5. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the filling
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the lotus seed paste, mashed salted duck egg yolk, sesame seeds, ground peanuts, melted butter, and caster sugar. 2. Mix the filling until it becomes smooth and well-combined. 3. Divide the filling into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls.
Step 3: Assemble the mooncakes
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2. Divide the pastry dough into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls. 3. Flatten each pastry ball with the palm of your hand and place a filling ball in the center. 4. Wrap the pastry around the filling and shape it into a ball. 5. Dust a mooncake mold with flour and place the mooncake inside, pressing it down gently. 6. Tap the mold lightly to release the mooncake. 7. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling balls.
Step 4: Glaze the mooncakes
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg yolk and water. 2. Brush the glaze over the mooncakes. 3. Place the mooncakes on a lined baking tray and bake them for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Nutrition
Mooncakes are a high-calorie treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Each mooncake contains approximately 200-300 calories, depending on the filling and size. They are also high in sugar and fat, so it is important to balance them with a healthy diet and exercise.
Conclusion
Making mooncakes at home is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to share a traditional Chinese treat with your loved ones. With this detailed recipe, you can easily make delicious mooncakes that are filled with lotus seed paste and salted duck egg yolk. Remember to enjoy them in moderation and balance them with a healthy diet and exercise. Happy baking!