crispy fried lotus root boxes

How to Make Crispy Fried Lotus Root Boxes

Fried lotus root boxes, or "ouhe" in Chinese, are a beloved crispy snack with a golden exterior and savory filling. Here’s a simple guide to making them at home.

Ingredients:

- 1 fresh lotus root (peeled and sliced into thin, round coins)

- 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, 2 all-purpose flour

- Water (for batter), Oil (for frying)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Filling: Mix ground pork with soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Stir until sticky; let it rest for 15 minutes.

2. Make the Batter: Combine 2 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and water to form a smooth, slightly thick batter.

3. Assemble: Place a lotus root slice on a flat surface, add a teaspoon of filling, top with another slice, and press gently to seal. Repeat for all.

4. Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Dip each lotus root box in batter, then deep-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil on paper towels.

Serving Tip: Enjoy hot with a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce or chili oil. These crunchy, savory treats are perfect as appetizers or snacks!

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