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Lotus Root and Pork Stew

A comforting Chinese-style stew with tender pork, crisp lotus root, and earthy dried mushrooms in a savory soy broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Total time
45 min
Servings
4
Calories
350
Protein
25g
Lotus Root and Pork Stew
comfortingChinesedairy-freeporktendercrispweeknightstew

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork shoulder
  • 1 medium lotus root
  • 4 dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 inch piece ginger
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 cups water

Instructions

  1. 1

    Soak the 4 dried shiitake mushrooms in 1 cup hot water for 20 minutes until soft. Reserve the soaking liquid, then slice the mushrooms, discarding stems.

  2. 2

    Cut the 1 lb pork shoulder into 1-inch chunks. Peel and slice the 1 medium lotus root into 1/4-inch rounds. Mince the 1 inch ginger and 3 garlic cloves.

  3. 3

    Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add the pork and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer pork to a plate.

  4. 4

    In the same pot, add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return pork, add the lotus root, sliced mushrooms, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and the reserved mushroom liquid plus enough water to make 2 cups.

  5. 5

    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until pork is tender and lotus root is crisp-tender, about 30 minutes. Uncover and simmer 5 more minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.

  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra soy sauce if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Tools you’ll need

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

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