Moon cakes are a traditional Chinese pastry most commonly eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. They are round or rectangular, filled with a variety of sweet or savoury fillings, and topped with a beautiful design. Moon cakes can be enjoyed as a delicious snack or as a gift to family and friends.
Symbolism:
They are associated with a popular Chinese myth of a peasant uprising against the Mongolian rulers of the Yuan Dynasty. The uprising was so successful that the moon cakes are said to have played a major role in its success. The round shape of the moon cake is thought to symbolize the unity of the Chinese people.
Types of Moon cakes:
Moon cakes come in many different shapes, sizes, and fillings. The most popular type is the Cantonese-style moon cake, which is a round pastry filled with lotus seed paste and salted duck egg yolk. Other popular fillings include red bean paste, taro paste, and mixed nuts. Moon cakes can also be savoury, filled with pork, mushrooms, and vegetables.
Making Moon cakes:
You will need a moon cake mold, which is available in Chinese grocery stores. You can also find moon cake recipes online or in Chinese cookbooks. Start by making the dough for the moon cake, and then fill it with your favourite filling. Once the moon cake is pressed into the mold, it can be steamed or baked in the oven.
Shopping for Moon cakes:
If you don’t have time to make moon cakes at home, you can purchase them from a Chinese bakery or grocery store. When shop mooncake, keep an eye out for the type of filling that you like. Some stores offer moon cakes with special fillings like durian, taro, and chocolate. Be sure to check the expiration date on the moon cake before purchasing.
Storage and Shelf-Life:
Moon cakes are best served fresh, but they can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. If stored properly, they can last up to two months. To store moon cakes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. If you are not going to eat them right away, it is best to store them in the refrigerator.
Serving Moon cakes:
Moon cakes can be eaten as a snack or served as a dessert. They can be served on their own or served with tea or other beverages. If you are serving moon cakes as a dessert, they should be sliced into small pieces and served with ice cream or sweet syrup.
Health Benefits:
Moon cakes are a great source of carbohydrates and provide a good amount of energy. They are also a good source of dietary fibber, which helps with digestion. Moon cakes are low in fat and cholesterol and contain a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are a great snack for those who are trying to reduce their sugar intake.
Conclusion:
Moon cakes are a delicious and symbolic Chinese pastry that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you make them at home or purchase them from a store, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy moon cakes as a snack or as a delicious dessert. With so many types of fillings and flavours to choose from, you’re sure to find one that you love!