Sweet and Spicy Lotus Root

Sweet and Spicy Lotus Root is a vibrant Korean appetizer that combines the earthy crunch of lotus root with a delightful balance of sweetness and heat. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect starter for any meal.

Ingredients

• Lotus root - 200 grams
• Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste) - 1 tablespoon
• Soy sauce - 1 tablespoon
• Maple syrup - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 teaspoon
• Rice vinegar - 1 teaspoon
• Sesame seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Chopped green onions - 2 tablespoons

Steps

1. Peel and slice the lotus root into thin rounds, about 5mm thick.
2. Rinse the lotus root slices under cold water to remove any starch, then drain.
3. In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and add the lotus root slices. Blanch for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the blanched lotus root slices to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until they begin to turn golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
7. Pour the sauce over the lotus root in the skillet and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbs: 20 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

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