Crispy lotus root boxes, or "ouhe," are a beloved Chinese snack with a golden crunch and savory filling. Here’s a simple guide to making them at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh lotus root, thinly sliced (about 2mm thick)
- 200g ground pork (or a mix of pork and shrimp)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 pinch white pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for coating)
- Oil for frying
Steps:
1. Prepare the Filling: Mix ground pork with soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and 1 tbsp water. Stir until sticky; set aside.
2. Assemble the Boxes: Sandwich a spoonful of filling between two lotus root slices. Press gently to seal the edges, forming a "box." Repeat for all slices.
3. Coat and Fry: Dust each box lightly with cornstarch to ensure crispiness. Heat oil to 170°C (340°F). Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serving Tip: Enjoy hot with sweet chili sauce or a sprinkle of five-spice powder. The contrast of the crunchy lotus root and juicy filling makes this a crowd-pleaser!
With these steps, you’ll achieve a perfect balance of textures and flavors—ideal as an appetizer or snack.
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