Lotus root storage and nutritional content

Lotus root has high nutritional value and can be eaten in many ways, usually stir-fried or boiled.

Lotus root

Also known as lotus and lotus vegetable, it originated in India and was introduced to my country very early. In the Southern and Northern Dynasties, the cultivation of lotus roots was already quite common. Lotus roots are widely distributed in my country and are rich in resources. They can be found from the Northeast to Hainan Island, from the coast of the East China Sea to the Tibetan Plateau. The main production areas are in the Yangtze River Basin and the Huanghuai River Basin, with the largest planting areas in Hubei, Jiangsu, Anhui and other provinces.

Lotus root is a treasure from head to toe. Its roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits all have economic value. In addition to lotus roots and lotus seeds, pollen, lotus leaves, lotus cores, etc. can also be used as dishes, beverages and health foods. Lotus root is slightly sweet and crispy. It can be eaten raw or cooked. It also has high medicinal value. Lotus root powder can help digestion and stop diarrhea, stimulate appetite and clear heat, nourish the body and prevent internal bleeding. It is a good liquid food and nourishing treasure for women, children, the elderly and the weak and sick.

During the reign of Emperor Xianfeng of the Qing Dynasty, lotus root was designated as a tribute to the imperial court. Because it has the same pronunciation as the Chinese character for "偶", people eat lotus root to wish for a happy marriage. And because it grows out of mud without getting stained, it is used as a symbol of integrity and noble character, along with lotus.

Lotus root benefits

1. Lotus root has high nutritional value. It is rich in trace elements such as iron and calcium. It is also rich in plant protein, vitamins and starch. It can replenish qi and blood and enhance human immunity.

2. Lotus root can emit a unique fragrance and also contains tannins, which can strengthen the spleen and stop diarrhea. It can increase appetite, promote digestion, stimulate the appetite and strengthen the stomach. It is beneficial for people with poor appetite and loss of appetite to recover their health.

3. Lotus root contains a lot of tannic acid, which can shrink blood vessels and stop bleeding. Lotus root can also cool blood and disperse blood. Chinese medicine believes that it can stop bleeding without leaving stasis, and is a good food therapy for febrile blood diseases.

Lotus root storage tips

Uncut lotus roots can be kept at room temperature for a week, but because lotus roots tend to turn black and the holes in the cut surface are prone to rot, the cut lotus roots should be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated to keep fresh for about a week.

Lotus root cooking knowledge

1. Avoid using iron utensils when cooking lotus root to avoid causing the food to turn black.

2. Lotus root can be eaten raw, cooked, mashed and juiced, or dried and ground into powder to make porridge. Raw or cooked lotus root is suitable for stir-frying, stewing, deep-frying, and as an ingredient in dishes, such as "Eight Treasures Stuffed Lotus Root" and "Fried Lotus Root Box".

Lotus root dietary taboos

1. It is especially suitable for patients with high fever, vomiting blood, hypertension, liver disease, loss of appetite, iron deficiency anemia, and malnutrition.

2. Lotus root is cool in nature, so pregnant women should not eat it too early. Lotus root is cold in nature, and it tastes crisp and refreshing when eaten raw, but it is harmful to the spleen and stomach. People with poor spleen and stomach digestive function and loose stools should not eat it raw.