Lotus seed paste

Lotus seed paste

Lotus Seed Paste

Lotus seed paste is a sweet, smooth filling commonly used in Chinese and Japanese pastries. It is made from dried lotus seeds, which are soaked in water, cooked until soft, and then mashed into a paste. The paste is often sweetened with sugar and sometimes flavored with other ingredients such as osmanthus flowers or rose water.

Preparation

The preparation of lotus seed paste involves several steps. First, the dried lotus seeds are soaked in water for several hours to soften them. The seeds are then boiled until they become soft and easy to mash. The softened seeds are mashed into a paste, which is then strained to remove any remaining pieces of seed. The paste is then cooked with sugar and other flavorings until it reaches the desired consistency.

Uses

Lotus seed paste is most commonly used as a filling in various types of Chinese and Japanese pastries. It is a key ingredient in mooncakes, a traditional Chinese pastry eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival. It is also used in wagashi, a type of Japanese confectionery. In addition to pastries, lotus seed paste can also be used in other dishes such as sweet soups and steamed buns.

Health Benefits

Lotus seeds are known for their health benefits. They are rich in protein, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, and they also contain a good amount of dietary fiber. The seeds are also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a healthy choice for those watching their diet.

See Also

• Red bean paste
• Black sesame paste
• Mooncake
• Wagashi