Guixian Lotus Root

Guixian Lotus Root

　　Produced in Guigang, Guangxi.

The people of Guigang have unique skills in making lotus root starch. First, the lotus roots are washed clean and ground one by one into a powdery form using a specially made grinding bowl. Then, the lotus root powder is placed in a cloth bag and kneaded and beaten in a water tank to allow the starch to seep out through the fabric pores and mix with the water. After the starch settles, the clear water on top is scooped out. Finally, the lotus root starch is spread thinly on a bamboo tray and dried in the sun. However, it should be noted that to ensure the quality of the lotus root starch, as much lotus root as is dug up during the day must be processed into starch that same night—none should be left overnight. Otherwise, not only will the amount of lotus root paste decrease, but the resulting starch will also lose its original freshness.

Lotus root is highly valuable both as food and medicine. It can invigorate the spleen and nourish the spirit, quench thirst and reduce heat, calm the mind and relieve dysentery, harmonize heart and kidney functions, strengthen muscles and bones, replenish deficiencies, benefit ears and eyesight, and dispel cold and dampness. Lotus root can also boost qi and regulate vitality, activate blood circulation and nourish deficiencies. It helps postpartum women produce breast milk and provides nourishment for those suffering from lung diseases when consumed regularly. When eating lotus root starch, first mix it evenly with cold boiled water, then add an appropriate amount of sugar and stir with boiling water until it becomes a paste. At this point, it turns a purplish-red color, crystal clear, and tastes smooth, delicate, sweet, and delicious. It can both relieve summer heat and moisten the lungs and clear the heart. It is suitable for all ages and can be eaten year-round. Patients and infants may even use lotus root starch as a meal substitute. Aged lotus root starch can also treat dysentery. For red dysentery, cook it with brown sugar; for white dysentery, use white sugar.