Delicious and Nutritious Braised Shiitake Mushrooms with Lotus Seeds Recipe

Braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds is not only a light vegetarian dish but also packed with nutrients, perfect for any meal. Let’s explore the detailed recipe to prepare this dish at home.

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds, you will need the following ingredients:

• Dried shiitake mushrooms: 200g (choose thick, brown-yellow mushrooms with a natural aroma)
• Lotus seeds: 150g (fresh or dried will work)
• Fresh coconut water: 1 small bowl
• Scallions and cilantro: As needed
• Basic seasonings: Soy sauce, sugar, salt, cooking oil, pepper, and chili (to taste)

Braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds ingredients

Expert culinary tip: Choose ingredients from reputable sources to ensure food safety. Fresh lotus seeds offer a natural sweetness, while dried lotus seeds need to be soaked before cooking.

Preparing the Ingredients

Careful preparation enhances the dish’s appeal:

• Shiitake mushrooms: Soak in warm water for about 30 minutes, rinse, and remove the stems. You can score the mushroom caps to enhance their visual appeal.
• Lotus seeds: If using dried lotus seeds, soak in warm water for 2-3 hours and blanch briefly. For fresh lotus seeds, simply rinse them.
• Scallions and cilantro: Rinse and chop finely for garnish and added flavor.

Preparing shiitake mushrooms and lotus seeds

Marinating the Shiitake Mushrooms and Lotus Seeds

For a flavorful dish, marinate the shiitake mushrooms and lotus seeds with the following seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of pepper

Mix well and let it sit for 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Steps to Make Braised Shiitake Mushrooms with Lotus Seeds

1. Sauté the onions: Heat cooking oil in a pot and sauté the minced onions until fragrant.
2. Stir-fry the ingredients: Add the marinated shiitake mushrooms and lotus seeds, stir-frying until they firm up.
3. Braise on low heat: Pour in the coconut water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and braise gently for about 30-40 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add chili if you prefer a spicy flavor.
5. Finish the dish: Before turning off the heat, add the scallions and cilantro. You can also add a bit of sesame oil to enhance the flavor.

Braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds cooking process

Enjoying the Dish

Braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds are best enjoyed hot with steamed rice. You can also garnish with fresh vegetables or cucumber slices to make the dish more visually appealing.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

• Shiitake mushrooms: Rich in vitamins D and B, potassium, and selenium, which boost immunity and reduce cholesterol.
• Lotus seeds: Provide protein, fiber, and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, supporting sleep and cardiovascular health.

Variations of the Dish

You can get creative by adding fried tofu, carrots, or fresh bamboo shoots to the braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds to enrich the flavor.

Storage Tips

Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat using a microwave or stovetop when ready to eat.

Conclusion

With the detailed recipe above, you are now ready to prepare a delicious and nutritious braised shiitake mushrooms with lotus seeds dish. Give it a try and share your results!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What goes well with braised shiitake mushrooms and lotus seeds?
  Hot steamed rice is the ideal choice. You can also pair it with blanched vegetables or cucumber slices.
• Can I use water instead of coconut water?
  Coconut water adds a natural sweetness and enhances the flavor, but you can use water if necessary.