Stir-fried lotus root with pork, or thịt xào củ sen as we say in Vietnamese, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s popular in many Asian cuisines. The lotus root offers a satisfying crunch, while the pork adds a savory depth. Combine this with a sweet and savory sauce, and you have a truly irresistible dish that’s perfect with a steaming bowl of rice.

Today, I’m going to guide you through my personal recipe for this culinary delight. It’s easier than you might think, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. So, put on your apron, and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the stir-fry:

300g pork loin, thinly sliced
300g lotus root, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small piece of ginger, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Fresh cilantro or spring onions for garnish (optional)

For the sauce:

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup water

What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen Arsenal

A sharp knife for slicing and dicing.
A cutting board to protect your countertops.
A wok or large frying pan for that authentic stir-fry experience.
A small bowl for mixing the sauce.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Prepare the lotus root: After peeling and slicing the lotus root, soak it in cold water with a teaspoon of vinegar for about 15 minutes. This helps to prevent discoloration and maintain its crunchy texture.
Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, black pepper, and water until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Stir-fry time: Heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil in your wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the pork: Increase the heat to high. Add the sliced pork and stir-fry until it changes color and is mostly cooked through.
Time for the vegetables: Add the sliced onion and lotus root to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, until the lotus root starts to soften but still retains a nice crunch.
The grand finale: Pour the prepared sauce over the stir-fry and toss everything together to coat evenly. Continue to cook for another minute or two, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serve it up: Transfer your delicious stir-fried lotus root with pork to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions if desired.

Stir-fried lotus root with pork on a plate.

Tips & Tricks From My Kitchen

Choosing your lotus root: Look for firm, smooth lotus root with no cracks or bruises. The inside should be white and crisp.
Soaking is key: Don’t skip soaking the lotus root in vinegar water. It helps to remove any bitterness and keeps it from turning brown.
Crunch factor: If you prefer a softer lotus root, you can blanch it in boiling water for a minute before stir-frying.
Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute the pork with another protein?

A: Absolutely! Chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu would all be delicious alternatives to pork in this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What if I can’t find fresh lotus root?

A: You can sometimes find canned or vacuum-packed lotus root in Asian grocery stores. Just make sure to rinse it well before using.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Slicing lotus root on a wooden chopping board.

A Final Word From Your Culinary Guide

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this stir-fried lotus root with pork as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends with its unique flavors and textures. Remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is love. So, cook with passion, don’t be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious journey!

Let me know in the comments below how your stir-fry turns out. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking!

Article by Family Cuisine

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