Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup dried lotus seeds (about 80g)
  • 4 cups water for cooking + additional water for soaking
  • 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon rock sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 3–4 thin slices ginger (optional, for added flavor)
  • Juice or zest from half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

  1. <strong>Soak the Lotus Seeds:</strong> Rinse the dried lotus seeds under cold water and soak them in enough water to cover them completely. Let them soak for at least 3 hours or overnight if possible.
  2. <strong>Prepare the Ingredients:</strong> After soaking, drain the lotus seeds and remove any bitter green sprouts from inside if they are present.
  3. <strong>Cook the Lotus Seeds:</strong> In a medium saucepan, add the soaked lotus seeds and pour in about 4 cups of fresh water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. <strong>Simmer:</strong> Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  5. <strong>Add Sweeteners:</strong> Stir in honey and rock sugar into the pot while its still warm so that they dissolve easily. Add ginger slices at this point if using.
  6. <strong>Strain & Adjust Flavor:</strong> Remove from heat once sweetened to your liking. Strain out any ginger pieces if used. Optionally stir in some lemon juice or zest just before serving.
  7. <strong>Serve Warm or Chilled:</strong> You can serve this drink warm immediately after making it or chill it in fridge before serving over ice.
  8. <strong>Garnish & Enjoy!</strong>: Pour into glasses and enjoy as is, or garnish with mint leaves or lemon slices!