Introduction to Sweet and Sour Lotus Root

Sweet and Sour Lotus Root, known as 糖醋藕片 in Chinese cuisine, is a delightful dish that combines crisp vegetables with a flavorful sauce. The preparation of this dish can be a rewarding experience, especially when you apply the right cooking techniques to enhance its taste and texture.

Preparation of Ingredients

The first step in making Sweet and Sour Lotus Root is to prepare your ingredients. Start by peeling the lotus root thoroughly, then wash it clean and slice it to your preferred thickness. The thickness of the slices can vary based on personal preference. Additionally, you will need to prepare some green and red peppers, cutting them into small cubes. Chop the scallions finely and slice the garlic as well.

Cooking Process and Tips

Next, it’s time to whip up the sauce. In a bowl, mix white sugar, aromatic vinegar, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and salt. Adjust the sugar and vinegar levels according to your taste—more sugar for sweetness and more vinegar for a tangier flavor. Heat oil in a pan until it reaches about 50% temperature, then sauté the scallions and garlic until fragrant. Add the sliced lotus root and stir-fry quickly. Pour in your prepared sauce and mix thoroughly. If the liquid in the pan is too limited due to the starchy nature of the lotus root, you may add a small amount of water to keep it from drying out. Lastly, toss in the cubed peppers, ensuring they’re well combined. Drizzle with a little sesame oil before turning off the heat, and your beautifully vibrant vegan dish is ready to be served!