The flowers, leaves, stems and roots of lotus can be used in a multitude of dishes and are considered special delicacies in Jinan, Shandong province.

1. Fried lotus （炸荷花/zháhéhuā）

Fried lotus [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Fried lotus is a special dish which can be found at lotus banquets, combining crispy and sweet sensations into a single bite.

Choose the inner petals of the lotus flower and gently wash them with spring water. Dip the petals in a batter and then fry in hot oil until golden brown. Dish off and sprinkle with soft white sugar.

2. Lotus leaf porridge (荷叶粥/héyèzhōu)

Lotus leaf porridge [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Lotus leaf porridge is a traditional delicacy in China. It is made by combining boiled lotus leaves with rice, wolfberry, donkey-hide jujube, and rock sugar.

The porridge is a refreshing treat on a hot summer day and is believed to help with heatstroke and lowering blood fat.

3. Meat wrapped in lotus leaves （荷叶肉/héyèròu）

Meat wrapped in lotus leaves [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]

Streaky pork wrapped in lotus leaves and steamed in steamers is a great way to eliminate grease for Jinan natives.

4. Fried lotus roots （炸藕盒/zhá'ǒuhé）

To make this dish, lotus roots are cut into slices, wrapped with batter and fried in hot oil. It is considered a delicacy by local residents in Jinan.

Fried lotus roots [Photo/WeChat account: jnslyj]