Crispy and Savory-Sweet Braised Lotus Root
Crispy and Savory-Sweet Braised Lotus Root
Quick and Easy! Perfectly Braised Lotus Root for Everyone
Lotus root is a wonderfully healthy ingredient, and among all lotus root dishes, I find the braised version with its crisp texture and savory-sweet glaze to be the most delicious. It’s truly a perfect side dish!
Main Ingredients- Lotus root, 20 slices (approx. 0.7cm thick)
- Water, 1 liter
- Soy sauce, 4 Tbsp
- Brown sugar, 1 Tbsp
- Honey, 1 Tbsp
- Sesame seeds, 1 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, peel the lotus root and slice it into uniform pieces about 0.7cm thick. Place the sliced lotus root in a pot and add enough water (about 1 liter) to cover it completely. Add 4 Tbsp of vinegar and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat. Rinse the lotus root thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residual vinegar taste. This step helps to eliminate the slightly astringent flavor of lotus root and enhances its crisp texture.
Step 2
Now, let’s begin the braising process. In a pot, combine the blanched lotus root (20 slices), one piece of dried kelp (about 10x10cm), 1 liter of water, 4 Tbsp of soy sauce, and 1 Tbsp of brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it starts boiling, remove the kelp. Then, adjust the heat to a setting between high and medium, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes. This slow simmering allows the soy sauce mixture to penetrate deeply into the lotus root.
Step 3
Continue simmering until most of the braising liquid has evaporated, leaving just a thin layer at the bottom of the pot. Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir the lotus root occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom or burning, ensuring the sauce coats it evenly. Cook until the lotus root is perfectly glazed and tender. Turn off the heat once this consistency is achieved.
Step 4
After turning off the heat, stir in 1 Tbsp of honey. Mix well to coat the lotus root evenly with the honey and the remaining sauce. The honey adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish, making the dish even more appealing. If desired, sprinkle in 1 Tbsp of sesame seeds for added nutty flavor and mix gently to distribute them.
Step 5
Arrange the delicious braised lotus root neatly on a serving plate. This visually appealing presentation complements the wonderful taste, completing your delightful lotus root dish. It pairs perfectly with a bowl of warm rice.
Step 6
The thickness of the lotus root slices is key to the dish’s success. Slices that are too thick may not absorb the sauce fully, while slices that are too thin can become soft and lose their signature crispness. Approximately 0.7cm thick slices strike the perfect balance, retaining their satisfying crunch while being coated in a savory-sweet glaze that makes it incredibly addictive – a true ‘rice thief’!
Step 7
How about making your dinner special tonight with this delightful braised lotus root? It snowed quite heavily where I live today, and it’s quite cold! I hope all my neighbors stay warm and avoid catching a cold. Wishing you all a wonderful and cozy day!
