Feasting on a lotus-root banquet in Pu’er

Falling on July 7th, Minor Heat is the 11th of the 24 solar terms on traditional Chinese calendar. During this period, folks in Lancang Lahu autonomous county, southwest Yunnan’s Pu'er city, still follow the tradition of eating lotus roots, essential to a lotus-root banquet.

Parts of the lotus plant

Stewed Pork Hock with Lotus Root Chunks

Glutinous Rice-Stuffed Lotus Root

The banquet features 16 dishes, including stewed pork hock with lotus root chunks, stir-fried tender lotus root, glutinous rice-stuffed lotus root, deep-fried lotus root boxes, stir-fried lotus root sprouts, cold lotus root salad, glutinous rice chicken wrapped in lotus leaves, and others.

Grilled Fish Wrapped in Lotus Leaves

Glutinous Rice Chicken Wrapped in Lotus Leaves

Chicken Stew with Lotus Root and Lotus Seeds

A typical lotus-root banquet

The lotus root is not only edible but also boasts medicinal properties. Rich in the mineral elements such as calcium, phosphorus and iron, it can clear summer heat, cool the blood, dispel stasis, and stop bleeding.

Source: Mt. Jingmai News app