Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving a unique and flavorful snack, look no further! Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem is an insanely delicious dish inspired by restaurant-style appetizers. The combination of crispy lotus stem slices with a sweet and spicy sauce will leave you wanting more. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• Lotus stem (as needed)
• Cornflour (for coating)
• Water
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 1 sliced onion
• 1/4 cup sliced capsicum (bell pepper)
• Water (for the sauce)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp red chili paste
• 2 tsp vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp aromatic powder (such as Chinese five-spice powder)
• 1 tsp honey
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lotus Stem:
   • Slice the lotus stem into thin rounds.
   • Coat the slices with cornflour and a little water to create a batter.
2. Fry the Lotus Stem:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
   • Fry the coated lotus stem slices until they turn crispy and golden.
   • Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp oil.
   • Add 1 tsp minced garlic and 1 tsp minced ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
   • Add 1 sliced onion and 1/4th cup sliced capsicum. Toss well.
   • Pour in some water to create the base for the sauce.
4. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
   • Stir in 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tbsp red chili paste, and 2 tsp vinegar.
   • Season with salt to taste.
   • Add 1 tsp aromatic powder (such as Chinese five-spice powder) for depth of flavor.
   • Drizzle 1 tsp honey to balance the heat.
5. Combine the Lotus Stem and Sauce:
   • Add the fried lotus stem slices to the sauce.
   • Toss everything together until the lotus stem is well coated.
   • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Your Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem is ready!
   • Serve it hot as an appetizer or snack.

Tips:

• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili paste.
• Lotus stem can be found in Asian grocery stores or specialty markets.
• The aromatic powder adds a unique flavor; feel free to experiment with other spices.

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this restaurant-style snack! ❤️🌶️🧡

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem:

1. What is Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem?
   • Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem is a delightful snack made from thinly sliced lotus stem coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s a popular restaurant-style appetizer.
2. Where can I find lotus stem?
   • Lotus stem is commonly available in Asian grocery stores or specialty markets. Look for fresh, firm stems without any blemishes.
3. How do I make the lotus stem crispy?
   • To achieve crispy lotus stem, coat the slices with cornflour batter and fry them in hot oil until golden brown. The cornflour creates a crunchy texture.
4. What’s in the sweet and spicy sauce?
   • The sauce includes minced garlic, minced ginger, sliced onion, capsicum (bell pepper), ketchup, red chili paste, vinegar, salt, aromatic powder (such as Chinese five-spice powder), and a touch of honey for balance.
5. Can I adjust the spiciness level?
   • Absolutely! Add more or less red chili paste according to your preference. You can make it as mild or as fiery as you like.
6. Is this dish kid-friendly?
   • If your kids enjoy flavors like sweet and spicy, they’ll likely enjoy these bites. Adjust the spice level accordingly.
7. Can I bake the lotus stem instead of frying?
   • While frying gives the best texture, you can bake the coated lotus stem slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
8. What’s the secret to getting a flavorful sauce?
   • The combination of garlic, ginger, aromatic powder, and honey creates a balanced and delicious sauce. Don’t skip any of these ingredients!
9. Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
   • You can prepare the lotus stem slices and sauce in advance. Just fry the lotus stem and toss it in the sauce right before serving to maintain crispiness.
10. What’s the best way to serve Crispy Chilly Lotus Stem?
    • Serve it hot as an appetizer or snack, garnished with toasted sesame seeds. It pairs well with a refreshing drink or dipping sauce.

Enjoy this unique and flavorful snack! 🌶️🧡