19 Chinese Pickled Lotus Root Recipe Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 23, 2024
In Chinese cuisine, pickled lotus root is a popular and beloved dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This unique and flavorful dish is made from the root of the lotus plant, a vegetable that holds significant cultural and symbolic importance in Chinese culture. Not only is this dish delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits, making it a staple in many Chinese households. In this article, we will explore the history and health benefits of pickled lotus root and provide a step-by-step recipe for you to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Kelp, Vinegar, Sugar, Salt, Dried Shiitake
If you're a fan of sushi, you'll love this deconstructed version that features tender chicken infused with the flavors of soy sauce, mirin, and sake. Served over a bed of rice and topped with a colorful array of vegetables, it's a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress your friends and family.
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Tempura Shrimp and Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Light Soy Sauce, Fresh Ginger, Daikon Radish, Mirin
For a crispy and flavorful twist on traditional tempura, try using chicken instead of shrimp. The result is a satisfying and indulgent meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy weekend at home. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables and a dipping sauce made with soy sauce and honey for a touch of sweetness.
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Chinese Fry Lotus Root Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Stuffing, Flour, Egg, Green Onions, Minced
If you're looking for a unique and tasty way to enjoy lotus root, try making a Chinese fry sandwich. Simply fry thin slices of lotus root until crispy and sandwich them between two slices of bread with your choice of protein and toppings. Serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Paleo Chinese Chicken Sparerib Soup
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Spareribs, Carrots, Celery, Fresh Shiitake
This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for those following a paleo diet. It features tender chicken spareribs, lotus root, and a variety of Chinese herbs and spices for a nourishing and comforting dish. Serve it with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete and healthy meal.
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Chinese Spicy Roast Fish (重庆烤鱼)
Main Ingredients: Sea Bass, Olive Oil, Fish, Chili Pepper Flakes, Cumin
This spicy and flavorful dish is a popular street food in China and is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. The fish is marinated in a blend of spices and then roasted until tender and flaky. Served with lotus root and other vegetables, it's a delicious and satisfying meal that will have you coming back for more.
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Kung Pao Lotus Root
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Garlic Cloves, Ginger, Peanuts, Scallions
If you're a fan of the classic Chinese dish Kung Pao chicken, you'll love this vegetarian version made with lotus root. The crunchy texture of the lotus root pairs perfectly with the spicy and savory sauce made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste. Top it off with some roasted peanuts for a satisfying crunch.
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Lotus Root Stir-fry
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Wood Ear Mushrooms, Red Bell Pepper
For a simple and tasty way to enjoy lotus root, try making a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and protein. The lotus root adds a unique and delicious crunch to the dish, while the stir-fry sauce made with soy sauce and oyster sauce brings all the flavors together. Serve it over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
This indulgent and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat. Thin slices of lotus root are stuffed with a savory pork and vegetable filling, then coated in a crispy batter and fried until golden brown. Serve with a side of spicy mayo for a delicious dipping sauce.
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Seafood Hotpot With Glass Noodles
Main Ingredients: Fish Stock, Light Soy Sauce, Mirin, Chinese Rice Wine
If you're a fan of hotpot, you'll love this seafood version made with lotus root and glass noodles. The lotus root adds a unique and delicious texture to the hotpot, while the seafood and glass noodles make it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve with a side of garlic soy sauce for dipping.
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Lotus Root Soup With Pork Ribs (排骨莲藕汤)
Main Ingredients: Pork Spareribs, Lotus Root, Shaoxing Wine, Ginger
This nourishing and comforting soup is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine and is perfect for a chilly day. The lotus root adds a unique and delicious flavor to the soup, while the pork ribs make it hearty and satisfying. Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
This simple and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the crunch of lotus root and the sweetness of snow peas. The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with a side of teriyaki sauce for a touch of sweetness.
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Szechuan Lotus Root
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Garlic Cloves, Ginger, Green Onion, Red
This spicy and flavorful dish is a favorite in Szechuan cuisine and is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. The lotus root is stir-fried with a spicy sauce made with Szechuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and garlic. Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
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Double Cooked Lotus Root
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Cooking Oil, Red Chili Pepper, Green Chili
This classic Chinese dish features lotus root that has been simmered and then stir-fried for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The dish also includes a delicious blend of spices and sauces, including fermented bean paste and rice wine. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Spicy Lotus Root Stir-fry (辣炒莲藕)
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Cooking Oil, Garlic, Bean Paste, Chillies
This spicy and flavorful stir-fry is a popular dish in Sichuan cuisine and is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. The lotus root is stir-fried with a spicy sauce made with chili oil, soy sauce, and garlic. Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
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Veggie No Yolks Noodle Soup
Main Ingredients: Yolks, Canola Oil, Green Onions, Sesame Oil, Ginger
This hearty and nutritious soup features lotus root noodles, which are a great alternative to traditional noodles for those looking to cut down on carbs. The broth is made with a blend of vegetables and spices, making it a flavorful and healthy meal option.
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Red Cooked Pork Belly with Lotus Root
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Lotus Root, Spring Onions, Ginger, Garlic
This indulgent and flavorful dish features tender pork belly that has been slow-cooked in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, star anise, and cinnamon. The lotus root adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish, making it perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
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Kung Pao Lotus Root (Gong Bao Ou Pian)
Main Ingredients: Lotus Root, Green Onions, Ginger, Garlic, Dried Red
This vegetarian version of the classic Chinese dish Kung Pao chicken features lotus root as the star ingredient. The lotus root is stir-fried with a spicy and savory sauce made with chili paste, black vinegar, and brown sugar. Serve with a side of steamed rice for a complete meal.
This simple and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the unique texture and flavor of lotus root. The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with a side of hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness.
Main Ingredients: Chicken Drummets, Lotus Root, Ginkgo Nuts, Water, Sea
This nourishing and comforting soup is made with a variety of Chinese herbs, including ginkgo and lotus root, for a healthy and flavorful meal. The addition of chicken makes it hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a chilly day or when you're feeling under the weather.
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Home-made Fukujinzuke (Pickled Vegetables for Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Daikon, Lotus Root, Cucumber, Eggplant, Ginger, Salt
Fukujinzuke is a popular Japanese condiment made with a variety of pickled vegetables, including lotus root. It adds a unique and delicious crunch to any dish and is perfect for topping off rice bowls or adding to sushi rolls. You can easily make your own homemade version with this simple recipe.
The History of Pickled Lotus Root
Rooted in Tradition
Pickled lotus root, also known as "lian ou" in Chinese, has a long history dating back to ancient China. It was first mentioned in a book written during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), where it was described as a popular dish among the upper class. It was also believed to have medicinal properties and was often used to treat various ailments. Over time, pickled lotus root became a staple in Chinese cuisine and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.
Symbolic Significance
In Chinese culture, the lotus flower and its root hold significant symbolism. The lotus represents purity, perfection, and spiritual growth, while the root symbolizes strength, resilience, and overcoming obstacles. By pickling the root, it is believed that these qualities are preserved and passed on to those who consume it.
The Health Benefits of Pickled Lotus Root
Rich in Nutrients
Pickled lotus root is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium. It also contains high levels of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to maintain a healthy gut. Additionally, lotus root is low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Boosts Immune System
The high vitamin C content in pickled lotus root makes it a powerful immune booster. Vitamin C is known for its ability to strengthen the immune system and fight off illnesses, such as the common cold and flu. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from harmful free radicals.
Promotes Healthy Skin and Hair
Lotus root is rich in antioxidants and essential minerals, making it a great addition to any beauty routine. It can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The iron in lotus root also aids in the production of red blood cells, which promotes healthy hair growth.
Recipe for Pickled Lotus Root
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh lotus root
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 dried chili, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and slice the lotus root into thin rounds.
2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the lotus root slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic, ginger, and dried chili (if using). Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Place the cooked lotus root slices in a jar and pour the vinegar mixture over them. Make sure the slices are fully covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it sit for at least 2 days in the refrigerator before consuming. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
6. Serve as a side dish or add it to your favorite stir-fry or salad for an extra kick of flavor and health benefits.
In Conclusion
Pickled lotus root is a delicious and nutritious dish with a rich history and cultural significance in Chinese cuisine. Whether you are looking to try a new recipe or incorporate more healthy foods into your diet, pickled lotus root is a must-try dish that will leave you wanting more. So why not give it a try and experience the unique flavors and benefits of this traditional Chinese dish for yourself?