Lotus Root

Lotus root is the edible rhizome of Nelumbo nucifera, the sacred or Indian lotus, an aquatic plant cultivated across East and South Asia. The rhizome grows as a chain of hollow, perforated segments that create a distinctive lace-like pattern of holes when the root is sliced crosswise. It is eaten cooked in East and Southeast Asian cuisines, prepared by stir-frying, braising, deep-frying into chips, or adding to soups and stews for its crunchy texture.