The stem of the water chestnut is a type of annual herbaceous plant that is harvested during the summer. It can be used medicinally to clear heat and reduce swelling, and can also be directly consumed as a cold dish. Not only does it have a refreshing and delicious taste, but it also has rare health benefits!
【Medicinal Value of Water Chestnut Stem】
Traditional Chinese medicine believes that water chestnut stem mainly has the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. It can be used for long-term consumption of alcohol or long-term use of drugs such as aspirin and corticosteroids, as well as for gastric ulcers caused by mental stress or excessive mental labor. It can also be used for skin benign tumors caused by human papillomavirus infection - warts.
In order to ensure the efficacy of water chestnut stem, it is recommended to take it half an hour before meals or half an hour after meals, and it is not advisable to drink tea immediately after use. In addition, it is also necessary to pay attention to a light diet.
It is recommended to avoid using strong seasonings and foods that promote gastric acid secretion in daily life while taking water chestnut stem, such as alcohol, cinnamon, cloves, etc.; as well as lemon soda, coffee, strong tea, and original soups like meat soup, chicken soup, and mushroom soup.
【Collection Method of Water Chestnut Stem】
First of all, let's not talk about the process of collecting water chestnut stems, but even the processing is very time-consuming.
Cleaning the water chestnut head requires removing the leaves, fuzzy things, and sponge-like bubbles below the leaves, leaving only the edible part of the tender stem.
But it still needs to be soaked in water and repeatedly washed by hand to remove the dirt attached to it;
Therefore, when a large pile of water chestnut stems is brought down from the boat, after it is really cleaned, there is not much left. It is really a time-consuming and laborious task.
【Methods of Consuming Water Chestnut Stem】
Water chestnut stem is very refreshing to eat and has the effects of clearing heat, diuresis, and reducing blood lipids. It is also a very good dietary fiber.
Whether it is cold or stir-fried, it needs to be blanched in boiling water first. When it changes color slightly, remove it from the water. The time should not be too long, about half a minute is enough, mainly to remove the astringent taste.
After blanching, let the water chestnut stem drain and cool naturally, then cut it into small sections or cubes. It can be served as a cold dish, similar to maranthus, or stir-fried.
As for seasonings, according to personal preference, add chili slices, minced ginger and garlic, yellow sauce, and a little oil. Stir-fry quickly and serve. This seasonal delicacy can be served on the table.
