Organic Lotus Seeds – 500 g

Why Choose Our Lotus Seeds?

Our organic lotus seeds are carefully harvested and sun-dried to preserve their natural freshness, offering a versatile ingredient for traditional Asian cooking. With a mild, nutty flavour, they can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes, from hearty soups to creamy porridges. These seeds are a pantry essential for those who value authentic, plant-based ingredients.

What Are Lotus Seeds?

Lotus seeds, also known as Lian Zi or Semen Nelumbinis, are the edible seeds of the lotus flower. They have been a cherished ingredient in Asian cuisine for centuries. Our organic lotus seeds are sourced with care to ensure quality, and they are commonly used in dishes such as congee, broths, and desserts. Their subtle taste and tender texture make them ideal for a variety of recipes.

How to Cook with Lotus Seeds

Preparing lotus seeds is straightforward with the right techniques. To soften them quickly, soak in hot alkaline water (1 part alkali to 10 parts water) for about an hour, then rub off the skins. After soaking, they become tender after a short boil. Alternatively, freeze the seeds for a day before cooking – this breaks down their structure, so they soften easily after boiling. For a no-pressure cooker method, boil for 5 minutes, then let them steep in the hot water, repeating three times. A key tip: do not add sugar until after cooking, as sugar can cause the seeds to shrivel.

Soaking lotus seeds for 10–30 minutes before cooking can reduce cooking time, but it is not essential. If you skip soaking, simply cook for longer. The key to perfectly tender lotus seeds is to avoid oversoaking or adding sugar too early. Lotus seeds can be used in a wide range of dishes, including desserts and savoury stews.

Common Lotus Seed Recipes

Lotus Seed Porridge

Ingredients: 20 g lotus seeds, 15 g brown sugar, 100 g glutinous rice. Soak the lotus seeds in water for 30 minutes and remove the lotus hearts. Place them in a pot with the cleaned glutinous rice, add water, and cook into a porridge. When nearly done, stir in the brown sugar and cook for a few more minutes. Serve warm – suitable for any season.

Braised Black Chicken with Lotus Seeds

Ingredients: 20 g lotus seeds, 15 g ginkgo, 1 black chicken (about 500 g). Clean the chicken and remove the viscera. Coarsely grind the lotus seeds and ginkgo, then stuff into the chicken cavity. Add ginger, pepper, spring onions, salt, and other seasonings to taste. Stew with water until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Serve once a day.

How to Store Lotus Seeds

Store lotus seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Refrigeration can extend their shelf life. Properly stored, they can last for months without losing quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to soak lotus seeds before cooking?

Soaking for 10–30 minutes reduces cooking time, but it is not mandatory. Without soaking, extend the boiling time as needed.

Are lotus seeds suitable for a plant-based diet?

Yes, lotus seeds are a plant-based food and can be incorporated into vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Are there any health benefits?

Lotus seeds are a natural food and may contribute to a balanced diet when consumed as part of a varied nutritional plan. However, individual results may vary, and they are not intended to replace medical advice.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, , or prevent any disease.