Simply put, "Nelumbo komarovii" commonly known as "Lotus root," is a rhizome or modified stem of the Lotus family.

With roots in Asia, it has been consumed in China for millennia for its many culinary and medicinal properties. It also made its way to Egypt in the 6th century BC and became a powerful symbol of civilization. These days, the lotus root is mainly consumed in China, Japan, India, Indonesia and the Philippines, with Japan and China being the largest producers and consumers of it.

Taste & Texture
Lotus roots are brown & cylindrical with pinwheel-shaped hollow gaps in the middle. The root itself has a crunchy, fibrous texture with a mild taste with subtle hints of sweet & sour earthiness.

Culinary Uses
This edible rhizome is very versatile in its culinary applications and is used differently across many parts of the world.

It can be:
- Blanched and used in salads & crudité
- Braising until tender for soups
- Stir-fried with spices
- Batter fried into tempura
- Baked into chips
- Fermented & pickled
- Used in curry
- Mashed & formed into cutlets
- In China, lotus root is also used in desserts.
- Brewed for tea.

Health Benefits
In ancient times, the lotus root was known to boost the appetite and also stop bleeding.

Today, the most noticeable health benefits of Lotus Roots are:
- Helps the skin glow: Its Vitamin C content makes it good for the skin and helps reduce visible signs of ageing.
- Boosts immunity: Vitamin C also makes it great for fighting off disease-causing pathogens.
- Improves brain health: Copper, present in these roots, is known to improve the function of neural pathways and prevent memory loss. 
- Strengthens bones & provides energy: The presence of copper also helps strengthen the bones and helps provide energy to the body.
- Helps with digestion: Fibre-rich foods help slow down the digestive process, allowing the body to absorb nutrients better. It also leaves you feeling fuller for longer, thereby curbing problems associated with weight gain.
- Great for the heart: Potassium present in these roots helps reduce the body’s blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Storage
Lotus roots can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or 10 days if wrapped in damp paper towels. A healthy root will have smooth and unblemished skin. To prevent browning, wash these in an aqueous vinegar solution.

We hope you enjoy exploring cooking with this wonderful culinary delight!