Crispy Stuffed Lotus Root

Step 1: Prep the ingredients

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Peel, wash, and cut the lotus roots into 1/8-inch slices.

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Rinse the lotus root slices in cold water to wash away excess starch and so they don’t turn black (they’re similar to potatoes).

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Drain and dab with kitchen paper towels to remove all excess water.

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Add all of the meat filling ingredients in a mixing bowl.

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Stir in one direction for about 5-10 minutes until the meat mixture becomes a very sticky paste. Set it aside.

Step 2: Assemble them

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Take one slice, and spread on a thin layer of meat filling. Top it with another slice of lotus root to create a sandwich. Gently press the two slices together so the meat filling fills the holes of the lotus root on both sides. This is to “lock” the two slices together.

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Repeat until you’ve used all of the slices.

Step 3: Make the batter and fry them

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Add both flours, salt and the five-spice powder to a mixing bowl.

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Slowly add the water while stirring. Mix until all lumps have dissolved.

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Add beer or soda water and mix.

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Fill a pot with oil, and heat.

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Once oil is hot (drop some batter, if it floats, means your oil is ready), coat the lotus in the batter and slowly lower into the oil.

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Fry a few pieces at a time, frying each side for about 6 – 7 minutes.

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Take them out and set them aside on a plate lined with a paper towel.

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Repeat until all the lotus sandwiches are fried.