Description
This lotus root soup with red dates and goji berries is a clear soup with a harmonious blend of subtle, earthy flavors and sweet, nourishing undertones. Serve it as a starter or side for your Asian dinner night. It is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 piece of kombu (12g or 0.4 oz; 4.5 x 4.5 inches)
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 16 oz peeled lotus roots
- 1/2 lime or 1 teaspoon of vinegar
- 8 red dates (jujubes), rinsed and pitted
- 1 1/2 tablespoons goji berries, rinsed
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- Thinly sliced scallion for garnishing
- Chopped cilantro for garnishing
Instructions
- Step: Use a damp cloth to gently remove dirt from the piece of kombu, keeping the white umami-rich powder intact.
- Step: Place the kombu and water in a pot and let it soak while preparing other ingredients.
- Step: Peel the lotus root and slice into 1/4 inch thick pieces, then soak in a bowl of cold water with the lime juice or vinegar to prevent browning.
- Step: Place the pot containing the kombu over medium-low heat and remove the kombu just before the water begins to boil.
- Step: Bring the stock to a boil, then add the lotus roots, red dates, and salt, skimming off any foam as needed.
- Step: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 80 minutes.
- Step: Add the goji berries, cover, and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Step: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or water as desired, then transfer to bowls and garnish with scallion and cilantro.
Notes
Ensure you do not wipe off the white powder from the kombu as it provides essential umami flavor. The lotus root should be kept in acidulated water until ready to cook to maintain its bright color.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT95M
- Category: Side Dish, Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 0.003 g
- Sodium: 495 mg
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.04 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.06 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg