5 recipes featuring water chestnuts
What's the story
Water chestnuts are a versatile ingredient that can lend a delicious crunch to a wide range of dishes. Famous for their crisp texture and mild sweetness, they are widely used in Asian cuisine but can be added to many other culinary masterpieces. Be it enhancing a salad or preparing an exquisite appetizer, water chestnuts have infinite possibilities. Here are five creative recipes that highlight the versatility of this unique ingredient.
Stir-fry
Stir-fried water chestnut delight
Stir-frying water chestnuts with vegetables is another easy way to relish their natural crunch. Toss sliced water chestnuts with bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots in hot sesame oil in a pan. Season with soy sauce and ginger, and stir-fry until the vegetables are tender but crisp. This makes for a quick side or main course when served over steamed rice.
Salad
Water chestnut salad sensation
Incorporate water chestnuts into your salads for added texture. Toss sliced water chestnuts with fresh greens like spinach or arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chunks of avocado. Dress the salad with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing taste. The combination of crunchy water chestnuts and creamy avocado creates an appealing contrast.
Pancakes
Savory water chestnut pancakes
Make savory pancakes by folding grated zucchini, chopped green onions, flour, egg substitute, and diced water chestnuts into a batter. Fry spoonfuls of the mixture on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides. These pancakes make an excellent appetizer or snack when served with soy sauce or sweet chili dipping sauce.
Soup
Creamy water chestnut soup
For something warm and comforting, try making creamy soup using pureed cauliflower as the base along with vegetable broth seasoned lightly before adding finely chopped cooked potatoes along with thinly sliced raw peeled fresh white-skinned tubers popularly known as water chestnuts. Simmer gently till everything melds together beautifully, then blend till a smooth consistency is achieved; serve piping hot, garnished optionally if desired, maybe even with croutons atop each bowlful too!
Spring rolls
Crunchy water chestnut spring rolls
Prepare spring rolls using shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and bean sprouts. Layer these on softened rice paper wrappers, placing whole peeled water chestnuts at the center. Seal edges tightly to prevent filling from escaping during frying. Fry until crispy and golden. Serve immediately with tangy dipping sauces like hoisin.