moonlight in the lotus pond

How to Make Lotus Root and Pork Moonlight Soup (Hetangyuese)

Hetangyuese, a classic Chinese dish blending lotus root, pork, and savory broth, evokes the tranquility of a moonlit lotus pond. Here’s a simple guide to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: Fresh lotus root (500g), lean pork (300g), dried red dates (5), goji berries (a handful), ginger (3 slices), scallions, salt, pepper, and a splash of rice wine.

Steps:

1. Prep the Lotus Root: Peel and slice the lotus root into 1cm-thick rounds. Soak in water with a teaspoon of vinegar to prevent browning.

2. Cook the Pork: Boil pork chunks in water for 5 minutes, then rinse to remove impurities.

3. Simmer the Broth: In a pot, combine pork, lotus root, dates, ginger, and 1.5L water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours until the lotus root is tender.

4. Season and Serve: Add goji berries and scallions in the last 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of rice wine. Serve hot for a comforting, umami-rich dish.

Tips: For a sweeter broth, use sweet lotus root. Avoid overcooking to retain the lotus root’s crunch. Pair with steamed rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this nourishing soup that captures the essence of “moonlight and lotus” in every spoonful!