Lotus root slices are dressed in a tangy sweet-and-sour sauce for a refreshing cold appetizer. This vegetarian, low calorie dish adds a fresh, crunchy element to family meals.
Peel the lotus root and slice it thinly, about 1/8-inch thick, then soak slices in cold water with a splash of vinegar for 5 minutes to keep them crisp and white.
Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add lotus root slices and blanch for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to halt cooking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Drain lotus root thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Add lotus root slices to the prepared sauce, mix gently to coat, and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving chilled.