Hot and Sour Lotus Root Salad 

This Hot and Sour Lotus Root Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the unique texture of lotus root with a spicy and tangy dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal! Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 section long lotus root, peeled and thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 scallions, chopped
2 tbsp Chinese chili oil
1 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar (rice vinegar or white vinegar)
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
1 fresh Thai red pepper, cut into circles
1 fresh green pepper, cut into circles
1/2 tsp sugar
1-2 tbsp cumin powder
Small pinch of salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Lotus Root:
In a pot of boiling water, blanch the thinly sliced lotus root for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender but still crunchy. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped garlic, Chinese chili oil, light soy sauce, vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, cumin powder, and a small pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the blanched lotus root slices, chopped scallions, Thai red pepper, and green pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together until the lotus root and vegetables are well coated in the dressing.
Marinate:
Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also refrigerate it for a more refreshing taste.
Serve:
Serve the Hot and Sour Lotus Root Salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish!