Lotus Leaf, Lotus Flowers and Lotus Seeds: More Than Decorations. Try Eating Them

Lotus plants are grown in fresh water in semi-tropical climates. Grown mostly in China for food, the entire lotus plant can be used from its roots to its seeds. Oftentimes, people will spend a little extra money to have the dried lotus plant put into fall decorations. This year, when preparing your lotus plant decorations, pick up a few fresh ones to eat. Depending on where you live, dried or canned lotus seeds may be all you can find. If you are planning a trip to Asia, be sure to pick up some fresh lotus seeds while you are there. They are a delicacy straight from the pod.

Cooking with Lotus Roots and Stamens

The lotus plants are used in a variety of dishes. The most commonly used parts of the lotus plant used in cooking are the roots and stems. Stems are great in salads, and the petals can be eaten raw, but it is advised that they be cooked first to avoid parasites. The lotus stamens are dried and made into tea while the lotus roots are often pickled. Fresh lotus roots have a brownish-orange color. The older the root is the darker brown the root becomes. The root has a slightly bitter flavor, but when peeled, a lot of the bitterness is removed.

One of the most delicious ways to use the lotus root in cooking is to peel the root, then boil for a few minutes in water. Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the water while boiling. Remove from heat after a few minutes and drain. Cut up some cucumbers and add some bacon bits or thinly cut fried or cooked ham to the bowl of boiled lotus root and toss. Finish off the cucumber-lotus salad with a small amount of real mayonnaise and chill in the refrigerator. Salt to taste before serving. The lotus root works well in stir fry, too.

Lotus Leaf

The lotus leaf, although slightly bitter, is widely used for wrapping sticky rice and other wraps. The lotus leaf is becoming known for its ability to treat the liver, stomach, spleen, preventing heatstroke and lowering blood lipids. When dried, the lotus leaf is commonly used in teas. When combined with oolong tea, the lotus leaf is sold throughout the world as a slimming tea. Many people report sleeping better with less sugary craving after drinking this tea blend.

Lotus Seed Uses

Lotus seeds make for a delicious snack or can be incorporated into recipes to add a delightful flavor many have yet to taste. Whether you are eating fresh lotus seeds, canned lotus seeds, roasted lotus seeds or dried lotus seeds, you'll find their sweet flavor not only appealing to the palate, but very useful inside the body. The lotus seeds are known for their numerous benefits.

When eating the whole seed, its calming effects are great for people with insomnia and restlessness. The seed is also beneficial to the heart, spleen, and kidneys. You will find lotus seeds in many herbal remedies, as well. When eating fresh lotus seeds, many people prefer to remove the center of the lotus seed due to its bitter flavor. The lotus seeds are low in fat and high in protein. They also contain calcium and other minerals but are low in vitamin content.

Sources:
"Lotus Seed: Food and Medicine", ITM Online.org