Lotus root, with its unique crunchy texture and subtly sweet flavor, is a star ingredient in many Asian cuisines. This humble root vegetable takes center stage in our recipe for a deeply comforting and flavorful lotus root soup, a classic dish cherished for generations. Its delicate sweetness pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of peanuts, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is both nourishing and satisfying. This soup is surprisingly easy to make, offering a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a chilly evening or any time you crave something both comforting and sophisticated.
Beyond its delightful taste, lotus root soup boasts numerous health benefits, providing essential vitamins and minerals. This simple recipe is adaptable to your preferences; you can adjust the ingredients and seasonings to create your own personalized version. Ready to experience the magic of this delightful soup? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own bowl of comforting warmth.
Tools Needed
- Pot
Ingredients
- Granuts (peanuts): 250g
- Dried squid: 1 piece
- Pork ribs
- Lotus root
- Dried oysters
- Red dates
- Water
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Wash and pre-soak peanuts for 2 hours. Place in a pot of water, bring to a boil, drain, and set aside.
- Rinse and soak dried squid for 15 minutes until softened. Remove any foreign objects, eyes, and the plasticky strip. Cut into slices.
- Clean pork ribs until the water runs clear. Blanch in a pot of water, starting with room temperature and bringing to a boil to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
- Rinse, peel, and cut the lotus root into chunks or thin slices.
Step 2. Combine and Simmer
- Place all prepared ingredients (peanuts, pork ribs, lotus root, dried oysters, dried squid, and red dates) into a pot. Add water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3.5 to 4 hours.
Step 3. Season and Serve
- Season with salt and enjoy!
Read more: Chinese Wonton Soup: Thousand-Li Fragrance Recipe
Tips
- Prepping ingredients in advance makes the cooking process much easier.
- Blanching the ribs in room temperature water before boiling is more effective in removing impurities.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Yes! Almonds, cashews, or walnuts can be substituted, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Peanuts provide the most traditional taste.
2. How can I make the soup thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) towards the end of cooking. Stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Is it okay to use canned lotus root?
While fresh lotus root is ideal for the best flavor and texture, canned lotus root works in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the soup.
This Lotus Root Peanut Soup recipe is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of classic Chinese cooking. Enjoy the satisfying warmth and unique flavors of this nourishing and easy-to-make soup, perfect for any occasion. We hope you'll savor every spoonful and make this comforting dish a regular part of your culinary repertoire.