maa5 laai1 gou1馬拉糕马拉糕
Jyutpingmaa5 laai1 gou1
Yalemáh lāai gōu
Definition
Malay sponge cake; a Cantonese dim sum made from fermented batter, steamed until soft, airy, and golden-brown.
colloquialdim sumfood
How it's used
Authentic versions are fermented for several days, which gives them a distinct, slightly tangy flavor and a signature airy texture. While often served in dim sum restaurants, it is also a common snack found in local bakeries. It is typically served warm and is prized for being exceptionally soft and fluffy.
Measure word
gin2件gínExamples
The Malay sponge cake here has a very fragrant egg flavor.
Related words
Common phrases
piping hot Malay sponge cake
a bamboo steamer of Malay sponge cake
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
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Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
