Lotus Root Soup Recipe – Asian Special
Lotus root soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish commonly enjoyed in Asian cuisine. Known for its crisp texture and health benefits, lotus root is often paired with various ingredients to create a comforting and hearty soup.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 10 min
Lotus Root Soup Ingredients:
- 1 medium lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1/2 pound (225g) pork ribs or chicken pieces (optional for added flavor)
- 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced
- 3-4 slices of ginger
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cooking wine (optional)
- 1-2 dried red dates (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
Prepare the Ingredients:
Peel and thinly slice the lotus root. Place the slices in a bowl of water with a little vinegar to prevent discoloration.
If using pork ribs or chicken, blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
Add ginger and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Cook the Soup:
Add the blanched meat (if using) to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in water or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Add the lotus root slices, carrot, and dried red dates (if using).
Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 40-60 minutes, or until the lotus root is tender and the flavors are well-developed.
Season the Soup:
Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to taste. Add cooking wine and sesame oil if desired.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serve hot as a comforting soup.
Recipe Notes:
Lotus Root Preparation: Peeling and slicing the lotus root should be done just before cooking to prevent discoloration. The vinegar in the water helps keep the slices fresh and white.
Optional Ingredients: Adding dried red dates imparts a subtle sweetness to the soup, while cooking wine and sesame oil add depth of flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
Cooking Time: The soup benefits from a longer cooking time to develop deep flavors. Adjust cooking time based on whether you’re using pork ribs, chicken, or just vegetables.
Texture: Lotus root retains a slightly crisp texture even after cooking, adding a pleasant crunch to the soup.
This lotus root soup is a nourishing and aromatic dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.
