Delicious and Nutritious Lotus Seed and Aloe Vera Sweet Soup for Summer Heat Relief

During the hot summer months, lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup is a perfect choice for cooling down and boosting health. Lotus seeds are rich in nutrients that help improve sleep, while the refreshing and sweet aloe vera will provide an unforgettable culinary experience for the whole family.

Delicious lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup

1. Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh lotus seeds: 300g (peeled), or substitute with 150g dried lotus seeds.
• Aloe vera: 1 large stalk, about 600g, choose a thick stalk to reduce bitterness.
• Rock sugar: 250g.
• Salt: a small handful.
• Banana essence: 1 vial.
• Vanilla: 2 vials.
• Roasted peanuts: 100g.
• Grated coconut: 100g.
• Fresh lemon: 1 fruit.

Preparing lotus seeds

2. Steps to Follow

2.1. Preparing the Ingredients

• Lotus seeds: Remove the bitter core, peel the outer silk layer, rinse thoroughly, and let drain.
• Aloe vera:
  • Cut into 5cm pieces, remove the thorns and green outer layer, and extract the white inner flesh.
  • Soak the aloe vera in a light salt solution for 5 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
  • Repeat the soaking and rinsing process once more to completely remove the slime and bitterness.
  • Cut the aloe vera into small, bite-sized squares, mix with lemon juice for 5 minutes, then rinse again.
  • Boil water, blanch the aloe vera for 1 minute, remove and rinse thoroughly with cold water to ensure crispiness.

Cooking lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup

2.2. Cooking the Sweet Soup

1. Add 1.5 liters of water to a pot, add the prepared lotus seeds and rock sugar, and cook over medium heat.
2. Once the water boils, reduce the heat and continue simmering until the lotus seeds are soft and slightly open.
3. Add the prepared aloe vera to the pot, cook for an additional 5 minutes, and adjust the sweetness to taste.
4. Finally, add vanilla for an enticing aroma, then turn off the heat.
5. Serve the sweet soup in glasses, let it cool, or store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Serving lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup

3. Requirements and Enjoyment

3.1. Finished Product Requirements

• The lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup should have a refreshing sweetness and an appealing color.
• The lotus seeds should be creamy and blend well with the crispy aloe vera, without any slime or bitterness.
• The aroma from vanilla and banana essence adds a special touch.

3.2. Ways to Enjoy

• Hot: Sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts, grated coconut, and a few drops of banana essence on top, and enjoy immediately.
• Cold: Let the sweet soup cool, add shaved ice, or refrigerate for 3-4 hours before serving.

Delicious lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup

Conclusion

Lotus seed and aloe vera sweet soup is not only a refreshing dish but also beneficial for health, particularly for sleep and digestion. With a simple and easy-to-follow recipe, you can easily make this sweet soup at home to treat your family. Give it a try and savor the unique flavor of this nutritious dessert!

References:

• Original recipe from Amthuchanoi.org
• Tips for preparing aloe vera and lotus seeds from reputable Vietnamese culinary sources.