09 Lotus Root

Lotus root is actually a rhizome that is grown in muddy ponds. It has a woody look and a pale-yellow, speckled skin. The flesh has holes in it that make this vegetable very distinctive in appearance. The texture of the flesh is crunchy like a water chestnut. Lotus root is sold fresh as a whole vegetable in a vacuum-sealed package, or peeled, chopped and frozen in a bag. It is used to make pickles, in stews, in tempura or deep-fried and served as chips.