Delicious and Nutritious Taro and Lotus Seed Stew Recipe

Taro and lotus seeds are common ingredients in Vietnamese cuisine, offering high nutritional value. The taro and lotus seed stew is not only delicious but also very beneficial for health. Let’s explore how to prepare this appealing dish through the following article.

Taro and Lotus Seed Stew

Ingredients Needed

To make taro and lotus seed stew, you will need the following ingredients:

• Taro: 600g
• Fresh or dried lotus seeds: 300g
• Coconut milk: 200ml
• Granulated sugar: 100g (adjust to taste)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (used to thicken)
• Cooking oil or lard: 1 tablespoon

Steps to Follow

Preparing the Ingredients

• Taro: Peel the skin, wash thoroughly to remove the sap. Cut into bite-sized pieces, soak in diluted saltwater for about 10 minutes, then drain and let dry.

• Lotus seeds: If using dried lotus seeds, soak them in warm water for about 2-3 hours before cooking. For fresh lotus seeds, rinse and remove the bitter core to prevent the dish from becoming bitter.

• Cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with a little cold water, stir well to create a smooth mixture.

Preparing the Ingredients

Cooking the Taro and Lotus Seed Stew

1. Boiling the Lotus Seeds
   Place the lotus seeds in a pot of water and boil until soft. Then drain and set aside.

2. Lightly Frying the Taro
   Heat the cooking oil in a pan, add the taro, and lightly fry until the surface turns slightly golden. This step helps the taro retain its texture and prevents it from becoming mushy when stewed.

3. Stewing the Mixture

   • Place a large pot on the stove, add the taro and lotus seeds along with enough water to stew.
   • Add sugar and salt, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir gently to dissolve the seasonings evenly.
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat and continue stewing for about 15-20 minutes until the taro and lotus seeds are well-seasoned.

4. Thickening the Stew
   Gradually pour in the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly to achieve a light thickness. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

5. Finishing the Dish
   Finally, add the coconut milk to the pot, stir well, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to enhance the rich, creamy aroma.

Finished Product and Enjoyment

The taro and lotus seed stew when completed is visually appealing, with a gentle aroma from the coconut milk blending with the rich, nutty flavor of the taro and lotus seeds. You can enjoy this dish hot or cold, according to your preference. It’s an ideal meal to add nutrition to your family’s diet, especially suitable for the elderly and children.

Finished Taro and Lotus Seed Stew

Conclusion

With a simple recipe and easily accessible ingredients, the taro and lotus seed stew is sure to become a fantastic addition to your daily family menu. Try it out and share this dish with your loved ones!

References: