Renkon Chips with Wasabi Mayo (Lotus Root Chips)


Renkon (lotus root) chips are a tasty Japanese snack with a crunchy texture and unique flavor. When paired with tangy wasabi mayo, they make a perfect appetizer or snack. This simple recipe will help you make these delicious chips at home.
renkon or lotus root

Renkon, or lotus root, is a common ingredient in Japanese cooking. It's known for its crisp texture and is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice. When sliced thin and fried, renkon chips become a favorite and irresistible snack. You can also use renkon chips as a topping for salads.

Renkon Chips with Wasabi Mayo

Renkon Chips with Wasabi Mayo
Preparation Time IconPreparation Time: 
Cooking Time IconCooking Time: 
Servings IconServings: 4
Calories IconCalories per serving: 200
Cuisine IconCuisine: Japanese
Category IconCategory: Appetizer
Author IconAuthor: 
Keywords IconKeywords: Renkon Chips, Lotus Root Chips, Wasabi Mayo, Japanese Snacks
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Renkon (lotus root) chips are a delightful Japanese snack known for their crunchy texture and unique flavor. Paired with a tangy wasabi mayo, these chips make a perfect appetizer or snack. This easy-to-follow recipe will help you create this delicious treat at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium lotus roots, peeled and thinly sliced
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1-2 tsp wasabi paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Peel the lotus roots and slice them thinly into 1/8 inch (3 mm) rounds. Soak the slices in a bowl of cold water with a splash of vinegar for 10 minutes to prevent discoloration and remove excess starch.
  2. Drain and pat the lotus root slices dry with paper towels.

Frying

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the lotus root slices in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.  You can slightly overlap the slices but do not overcrowd the pot.
  3. Remove the chips with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt while still hot.

Wasabi Mayo

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, wasabi paste, and lemon juice until well combined. Adjust the amount of wasabi to your desired level of spiciness.

Serving

  1. Arrange the renkon chips on a serving platter and serve with the wasabi mayo on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crunchy and flavorful snack!

Nutritional Analysis (per serving)

Calories: 200, Protein: 2g, Fat: 14g, Carbohydrates: 16g, Dietary Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 1g, Sodium: 180mg, Vitamin C: 15% DV, Potassium: 250mg, Calcium: 2% DV, Iron: 4% DV

FAQs

Are renkon chips healthy?

Renkon chips can be considered a healthier snack option compared to conventional potato chips due to the nutritional benefits of lotus root. Lotus root is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Can I bake the renkon chips instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the chips at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.

How do I store leftover renkon chips?

Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispiness over time.

What other dips can I serve with renkon chips?

Renkon chips can be served with a variety of dips, such as soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, spicy mayo, or a simple seaweed (nori) salt mix.

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