Lotus seeds have a sweet and astringent taste and are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. They are known for their beneficial effects on the kidneys and spleen. Lotus seed porridge is also a popular dish. So, do lotus seeds need to be soaked before cooking porridge?
Do lotus seeds need to be soaked before cooking porridge?
It depends on the situation.
Situations where soaking is not necessary.
Freshly picked lotus seeds have a tender texture and contain abundant nutrients such as vitamins, amino acids, and proteins. They do not need to be soaked. Simply wash them, remove the outer skin, and cook them directly for porridge.
Situations where soaking is recommended.
Lotus seeds that are used as medicinal herbs are usually processed and dried, resulting in a harder texture. Soaking them in water for a period of time makes them easier to cook and soften, reducing the cooking time for porridge.
How long should lotus seeds be soaked for porridge?
If using dried lotus seeds for porridge, it is generally recommended to soak them for 2-3 hours. Some people may soak lotus seeds overnight, but this method is not advisable during hot summers as it may lead to spoilage in suitable temperature and moisture conditions.
How much lotus seeds should be used for porridge?
10-15 grams is recommended.
For making lotus seed porridge, it is recommended to use 10-15 grams of lotus seeds. Excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort. Combining lotus seeds with other herbs such as sour jujube kernels, Chinese arborvitae seeds, Poria cocos, and Polygala tenuifolia has the benefit of nourishing the heart and calming the mind, making it suitable for people with palpitations and insomnia.
How to cook lotus seed porridge?
Lotus Seed Porridge
Ingredients:
200g steamed rice, 50g lotus seeds, 20g dried wood ear mushrooms, 5g white wine, 2g salt.
Instructions:
1. Soak the lotus seeds in warm water with sugar overnight, then steam them in a steamer for 40 minutes until soft, and remove them.
2. Soak the wood ear mushrooms in water until soft, remove the roots, and cut them into strips.
3. In a pot, pour in all the seasonings (half a cup of broth, 5g of wine, 2g of salt), and add the wood ear mushroom strips. Cook until done, then remove and drain.
4. Add the lotus seeds and wood ear mushrooms to the hot porridge and serve.
Who should not drink lotus seed porridge?
1. People with bloating or fullness in the abdomen.
Lotus seeds can tonify the heart and kidneys and nourish the digestive system. However, for people with stagnant digestion or various chronic gastritis conditions, consuming lotus seeds may worsen their condition.
2. People with constipation.
Lotus seeds have astringent properties and may worsen symptoms in people with constipation.
3. People with a cold constitution.
Lotus seeds have a slightly bitter and cold nature. Therefore, individuals with a weak and cold constitution, as well as those with coldness in the spleen and stomach, should avoid consuming lotus seeds or remove the center part before consumption.
