ingredient stalker: what is lotus root?

Lotus root (藕,ǒu)  is my favorite vegetable. Actually a root vegetable, it looks kind of like giant white sausage links and grows in the mud at the bottom of lakes. It has a crunchy texture like water chestnuts and a subtle flavor similar to a potato. Check out the video above for some pointers on where to find lotus root and how to prepare it.

There are a ton of ways to eat lotus root: boil it in soups, deep-fry and stuff it, stir-fry with other vegetables, eat it raw in salads, or sweeten it with sugar and fruit. Here's a simple and quick recipe for stir-fry lotus root. It's the same recipe I make in the video.

(藕,ǒu) Simple Stir-Fry Lotus Root

2 lb. lotus root (fresh or canned)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chili sauce or fermented bean paste

Peel the lotus root and slice into 1/8"-thick slices. Heat up the oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the lotus root slices and stir-fry for 7 minutes, or until the lotus root is cooked through but still a little crunchy. Toss in the salt and chili sauce and stir-fry for 30 more seconds. Serve.

Comments

[bizarrome]

I have seen lotus root at the grocery store and always wondered what is was. It looks intimidating and I thought it surely would taste strange. Interesting that it tastes "similar to a potato". If I can find it I'll try putting it in a salad like you suggest.

[RCT]

wow--never thought about using lotus root.

[SKE]

I'm going to try this recipe with my students :o)

[keaton curtis]

I loved watching the video on the lotus root. It helprd me understand what it is and how to use it. Great info! keaton

[Jo Boswell]

Sounds delicious and low in calories and everybody looks for that. Am looking forward to the cookbook. Jo Boswell

[C.H.]

Love what the two of you are doing, I can't wait for the cookbook!!!

[Becky Ahlers]

Really interesting ideas...can't wait to try them!!

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