Spicy Sesame Lotus Stem Salad
This vibrant Spicy Sesame Lotus Stem Salad offers an irresistible crunch and a burst of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a refreshing and light side dish perfect for any meal.
For 4 servings
Prepare Lotus Stem: Peel the lotus stem and slice it very thinly, about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick. Rinse the slices thoroughly under cold running water to remove any starch.
Blanch Lotus Stem: Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add the lotus stem slices and blanch for exactly 60 seconds. Immediately transfer the blanched lotus stem to a large bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its crispness.
Drain and Dry: Once completely chilled (about 2-3 minutes), drain the lotus stem thoroughly. Spread the slices on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them very dry. Excess moisture will dilute the dressing.
Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, light soy sauce, minced garlic, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt until the sugar and salt are dissolved and the dressing is well combined.
Combine and Toss: Place the dried lotus stem slices in a medium mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the lotus stem. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every slice is evenly coated.
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, give it another quick toss and sprinkle generously with toasted white sesame seeds.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Achieve Maximum Crispness: Ensure the lotus stem is thoroughly dried after the ice bath. Any residual water will dilute the dressing and compromise the crunch.
- 2Adjust Spice Level: For more heat, add an extra dash of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For less spice, reduce the chili garlic sauce.
- 3Pre-slice for Convenience: Lotus stem can be peeled and sliced a day ahead and stored in water in the refrigerator. Just blanch and dress when ready to serve.
- 4Even Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin slices, which ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add cooked, shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or pan-fried tofu cubes to make it a more substantial meal.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped mint, Thai basil, or a handful of fresh cilantro for an added layer of aromatic freshness.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Introduce other crunchy elements like chopped roasted peanuts, cashews, or slivered almonds for additional texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Lotus stem is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Low Calorie & Nutritious
This salad is naturally low in calories while providing essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and B vitamins, contributing to overall well-being.
Antioxidant Properties
Ingredients like garlic and chili garlic sauce contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and support the body's immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Canned or frozen lotus stem can be used as a substitute, but ensure they are thoroughly drained and rinsed. The texture might be slightly softer than fresh.
