Moon Cakes are a traditional Chinese pastry that are commonly eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. A 1 Small Square Moon Cake Oriental Pastry (made with Bean or Lotus Seed Paste Filling, Baked) contains 169 calories, making it a delicious and indulgent treat.
In terms of nutritional information, Moon Cakes are high in sugar and fat. However, they do contain some protein and minerals due to the use of nuts in some varieties. It is important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
In this article, we'll explore the flavor, texture, and traditional significance of Moon Cakes. We'll also provide serving suggestions and storage recommendations.
Moon Cakes are high in calories, with a single serving containing around 500-1000 calories depending on the size and filling. They are also high in sugar and fat, making them a less healthy choice. However, they do contain some protein and minerals due to the use of nuts in some varieties. Lotus seed paste is also a good source of calcium.
Calories Count
A 1 Small Square Moon Cake Oriental Pastry (made with Bean or Lotus Seed Paste Filling, Baked) contains 169 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie treat compared to some other Moon Cake varieties.
Ingredients Used
The traditional filling for Moon Cakes is made from either bean paste or lotus seed paste. Other popular fillings include egg yolk, nuts, and meat. The pastry shell is typically made from flour, sugar, and oil. It is often flavored with salt, vinegar, or other seasonings.
Flavor Profile
Moon Cakes have a sweet, rich flavor that comes from the use of sugar and fat in the pastry and filling. The lotus seed paste filling has a slightly nutty flavor, while the bean paste filling is smoother and more mellow. Some Moon Cakes also contain savory elements, such as salted egg yolk or meat. These add a salty and umami flavor to the pastry.
Texture of Moon Cake
Moon Cakes have a soft and slightly chewy texture due to the use of oil and sugar in the pastry. The filling is typically smooth and creamy, and can be sticky or crumbly depending on the type of filling. The egg yolk in some Moon Cakes has a slightly dry and crumbly texture, which contrasts with the smoothness of the filling.
Traditional Significance
Moon Cakes have been eaten in China for over a thousand years, and are traditionally associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. They are often given as gifts or shared among family and friends during the festival. The round shape and golden color of Moon Cakes symbolize unity and completeness, while the egg yolk represents the full moon or the goddess Chang'e, who is associated with the festival.
Serving Suggestions
Moon Cakes are typically served in small wedges alongside Chinese tea. They can also be eaten with fruit, such as sliced apples or pears. Some people like to warm up their Moon Cakes before eating them, while others prefer them at room temperature. They can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer if they are not eaten right away.
Variations of Moon Cakes
Moon Cakes come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Some popular variations include: - Snow Skin Moon Cakes, which have a soft and chewy skin made from glutinous rice flour.
- Five Kernel Moon Cakes, which are filled with a mixture of five types of nuts.
- Meat Moon Cakes, which contain savory pork or beef filling.
- Ice Skin Moon Cakes, which are a modern variation made using a mochi-like skin that is served cold.
Storage Recommendations
Moon Cakes should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer if they are not eaten right away. If freezing, wrap the Moon Cakes in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. To thaw, take them out of the freezer and leave them at room temperature for a few hours.
Popular Brands
Some popular brands of Moon Cakes include: - Wing Wah
- Maxim's
- Kee Wah
- Tai Pan
- Mei Xin
These brands offer a variety of Moon Cake flavors and packaging options, and are often available for purchase online or in Asian grocery stores.
Moon Cakes are a symbol of reunion and gratitude. They are a meaningful way to show respect and deepen relationships with loved ones and business associates.
5 FAQ About Small Square Moon Cake Oriental Pastry
1. What is the calorie content of a small square moon cake?
There are 169 calories in one small square moon cake Oriental pastry.
2. What filling is typically used in small square moon cakes?
Small square moon cakes are usually filled with either bean paste or lotus seed paste.
3. How is a small square moon cake prepared?
Small square moon cakes are baked pastries that are made with a dough wrapper and a filling of bean paste or lotus seed paste. The dough is rolled out, the filling is added to the center, and then the pastry is folded into a small square shape before being baked.
4. When are small square moon cakes traditionally eaten?
Small square moon cakes are traditionally eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival, a harvest festival celebrated in many East Asian and Southeast Asian cultures. The festival falls on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, which typically falls in September or October in the Western calendar.
5. Are there any health benefits to eating small square moon cakes?
Small square moon cakes are a high-calorie treat and should be consumed in moderation. However, they do contain some nutritional value from the filling ingredients, such as protein and essential amino acids from the bean paste or lotus seed paste.