Discover the Delights of Lotus Root: Selection, Benefits, and Cooking Methods
In many Chinese communities, there is a popular tradition of consuming lotus root during the Xiao Shu period. Historically, lotus root has been honored as a royal delicacy since the Qing Dynasty's Xianfeng era.
How to Select Quality Lotus Root
According to nutrition experts, the selection of lotus root should focus on the following criteria:
- Quality Indicators: Choose lotus roots that are plump, crisp, and have a high water content with a sweet, fragrant aroma. The surface should be free from injuries, rot, discoloration, rust spots, shrinkage, and continuous nodes. A thin layer of mud should be present on the exterior to ensure freshness.
Distinguishing Between Red and White Lotus Root
Generally, red lotus root features a brownish-yellow skin, is shorter and thicker, and has a slightly bitter taste when raw. In contrast, white lotus root has a smooth, silvery skin, is longer and slender, and tastes sweet when eaten raw. Red lotus root is recommended for stews like spare rib soup, while white lotus root is ideal for stir-frying. Additionally, there is a third variety known as "mahua lotus root," which has a rough appearance and high starch content.
Health Benefits of Lotus Root
Traditional Chinese medicine highlights several therapeutic functions of lotus root:
- Cooling and Detoxifying: Raw lotus root has a cooling effect, making it suitable for treating heat-related illnesses. It is especially beneficial for symptoms like thirst, nosebleeds, and hemoptysis.
- Digestive Aid: With its high mucilage content and dietary fiber, lotus root helps in regulating bowel movements. It binds with bile acids and cholesterol, facilitating their excretion, which supports digestive health.
- Blood Nourishment: Rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins, lotus root is known to nourish and enhance blood production, improving immunity and vitality.
- Hemostasis and Blood Circulation: The tannins present in lotus root help constrict blood vessels, making it useful for stopping bleeding, as it cools the blood without causing stagnation.
Who Can Benefit from Eating Lotus Root?
Lotus root is generally suitable for everyone, but certain groups may find it particularly beneficial:
- Individuals of all ages, especially the elderly, women, and children with health issues, can greatly benefit. It is highly recommended for those suffering from high fevers, hemorrhage, hypertension, liver diseases, poor appetite, iron deficiency anemia, and malnutrition.
- Due to its cold nature, it is advisable for postpartum women to avoid lotus root too soon after delivery. Raw consumption may not be suitable for individuals with weak digestive systems or diarrhea.
- Cooking lotus root in soups can help relieve various bleeding conditions. It is typically safe to include it in the diet around one to two weeks postpartum.
Preparation and Consumption Tips
Nutritionists recommend the following ways to enjoy lotus root:
- Lotus root can be eaten raw, cooked, juiced, or dried and ground into flour for various dishes.
- When selecting lotus root, ensure that the skin is yellowish-brown and the flesh is thick and white. Avoid any roots that appear black or emit an unusual smell.
- Lotus root can be prepared through frying, stewing, or using it as an ingredient in dishes like "Eight Treasures Stuffed Lotus Root" and "Fried Lotus Root Pockets."
- Avoid using iron utensils while cooking lotus root, as this can cause discoloration.
- Uncut lotus root can be stored at room temperature for about a week. However, cut lotus root should be wrapped with plastic wrap and kept in the refrigerator to prevent oxidation.
Easy Recipe: Sweet and Sour Lotus Root Slices
Ingredients: Lotus root
Instructions: Clean the lotus root and slice it. Briefly blanch in hot water. In a heated pan, add minced ginger and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the lotus root slices, sugar, and vinegar, continuing to stir-fry. Finally, add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce before serving.
Key Tips: Blanching is optional, and the blanching water can be consumed. Avoid overcooking to prevent burning, and refrain from using iron utensils to keep the lotus root's color intact. Aim for a light coating with the sauce.
Indulging in lotus root not only enhances your meals but also contributes significantly to your health. Enjoy this versatile ingredient in your culinary adventures!