Lotus Root Recipes

Crispy Lotus Root Sandwiches are a delicious traditional Chinese snack, made by sandwiching seasoned pork between slices of lotus root, coating them in batter, and frying until golden and crispy. The exterior is crunchy, while the filling is tender and juicy, offering a delightful contrast in every bite. This dish can be served as an appetizer or a side dish, making it a crowd favorite.

To ensure your Crispy Lotus Root Sandwiches turn out perfectly, keep these tips and tricks in mind:

1.Choose Fresh Lotus Roots:

Select firm, unblemished lotus roots. Fresh lotus roots ensure a crisp texture.

You can find fresh lotus roots at Asian grocery stores. If unavailable, vacuum-packed lotus root slices can be used, but note that the texture may differ.

2.Slice Carefully:

When slicing the lotus roots, be careful not to cut all the way through. The slices should stay connected on one side to form a hinge, allowing you to stuff them like a sandwich.

3.Prepare the Filling Properly:

Mix ground pork thoroughly with seasonings to ensure even distribution of flavors. Adding a bit of cornstarch and egg white helps the filling stick together and stay juicy.

Ground pork can be substituted with ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste. Cornstarch and soy sauce can be found in the international aisle of most grocery stores. If light soy sauce is unavailable, regular soy sauce can be used.

4.Coat with Cornstarch:

Lightly coat the inside of the lotus root slices with cornstarch before adding the filling. This helps the filling adhere better and prevents it from falling apart during frying.

5.Make a Smooth Batter:

When making the batter, ensure it is smooth and thick enough to coat the lotus root sandwiches evenly. Gradually add water to the flour while stirring to avoid lumps.

Using cold water for the batter can make the fried lotus root sandwiches crispier.

6.Control Oil Temperature:

Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. If it’s too cool, the sandwiches will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, insert a wooden chopstick into the oil. If bubbles form around it, the oil is ready.

7.Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:

Fry the sandwiches in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy, greasy sandwiches.

Use a large deep-fryer or pot to prevent oil overflow and maintain a stable oil temperature.

8.Drain Excess Oil:

Once fried, place the sandwiches on paper towels to drain excess oil. This step helps keep them crispy.

If you don’t have paper towels, use kitchen towels as a substitute.

By following these tips, you'll be able to make delicious, crispy lotus root sandwiches that are sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking!