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Lotus Drink

A traditional Asian beverage made from dried lotus seeds that creates a pale, fragrant drink with subtle floral notes and naturally creamy texture. This naturally caffeine-free drink is lightly sweet and ready in under 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1/3 cup dried lotus seeds
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons rock sugar or regular sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon dried goji berries optional

Equipment

  • Small saucepan or pot
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or whisk
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Serving glasses or cups
  • Blender (optional)

Method
 

  1. Place dried lotus seeds in a fine-mesh strainer and run cool water over them for about 30 seconds, swirling gently with your fingers to remove dust and surface impurities.
  2. Pour 3 cups of water into a small saucepan and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Carefully add the rinsed lotus seeds to the boiling water, stirring once with a wooden spoon.
  4. If using goji berries, add them to the pot now.
  5. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes without a lid, stirring occasionally, until the seeds become very soft and start breaking down slightly.
  6. After 10 minutes of simmering, add 2 tablespoons of rock sugar and stir well until completely dissolved. Taste and add more sugar if desired.
  7. For a smooth drink, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth, pressing gently on the seeds to release all the creamy liquid. For a thicker version, transfer the entire mixture to a blender and pulse briefly until desired consistency is reached.
  8. Pour the lotus drink into serving glasses and serve hot immediately. The drink should be a pale, creamy color with a subtle golden hue.

Notes

Use fresh dried lotus seeds within six months of purchase for best results. Keep the heat at medium-low during simmering to prevent bitterness. The softened lotus seeds can be eaten as a snack or blended back into the drink for extra creaminess. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Serve hot or chilled over ice.