Very finely chop the lotus root. Mince the ginger and spring onions ... Serve with a small bowl of brown vinegar as a dipping sauce.

According to my foodie friend, the secret of its goodness lay in the “uniquely crunchy texture” of the meatballs, which contained minced lotus root. The latter gave the tender meatballs just ...

Add the mirin, soy sauce and 300ml/10fl oz of boiling water. Bring back to the boil, and carefully fold in the tofu. Place into serving bowls and top with the lotus root crisps.