Looking to add a touch of sweetness to your Tet celebrations? Discover the delightful world of Candied Lotus Seeds, a traditional Vietnamese treat that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also embodies the spirit of the Lunar New Year! With their glossy finish and rich flavor, these candied gems are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a sweet indulgence all on your own. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you through the simple steps to create this exquisite delicacy that will leave everyone asking for more!
Prep Time: 1 hrs
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lotus seeds
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the dried lotus seeds under cold water to remove any impurities. This will help ensure a clean and fresh flavor in the final dish.
- Soak the cleaned lotus seeds in a bowl of water for about 1 hour. This will help to soften them and prepare them for cooking.
- After soaking, drain the lotus seeds and place them in a pot. Add 1 cup of water to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the lotus seeds simmer for about 30 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After the lotus seeds are cooked, drain them and set aside. In the same pot, add 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine.
- Heat the sugar and water mixture over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the cooked lotus seeds back into the pot. Stir gently to coat the seeds with the syrup.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about
- 5 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure the lotus seeds do not stick to the bottom of the pot.
- As the mixture cooks, you will notice the syrup thickening and the lotus seeds becoming more translucent. Continue simmering until the syrup reaches your desired consistency.
- Once finished, remove the pot from heat and let it cool. The candied lotus seeds can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed as a sweet treat during Tet or used as a topping for desserts.
Tips
- Choose Quality Lotus Seeds: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality dried lotus seeds. Look for seeds that are plump and free from any discoloration.
- Soaking is Key: Don’t skip the soaking step! This not only softens the seeds but also helps to reduce cooking time and enhances their overall texture.
- Monitor the Heat: When simmering the lotus seeds in syrup, keep an eye on the heat to prevent sticking and burning. Adjust the temperature as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Syrup Consistency: The longer you simmer the seeds in the syrup, the thicker it will become. If you prefer a lighter syrup, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your candied lotus seeds on their own, or use them as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt for an extra special treat.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, making them a great snack option throughout the Tet festivities!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
