A delightful walk along the famous historic West Lake this evening. A pleasant park with myriad scenic paths and bridges urging full enjoyment of this beautiful lake. The beautiful and tasty Lotus plant abound and is especially revered in this region.
I was quite taken by the lovely lotus flowers and seed pods at the day market this morning. I’ve enjoyed raw lotus seeds before and it’s fun popping them from the pods and popping them into my mouth.
Even in the dark, the lotus plants inhabiting West Lake were luxurious and enjoyable.
Hangzou is the origin of the Grandma’s Home chain. We were happy to stop in at the end of the trail, lakeside. Their rooftop patio had just closed for the evening, we gladly settled into a comfortable booth and consoled ourselves with a Chinese brew, or three.
We started with West Lake soup, the gateway to the great meal to follow!
Beef, Cilantro, Mushrooms, Tomato and Egg White in a thickened broth. Very nice.
Lotus Root, of course. Stuffed with Sweet Rice.
Tiny Osmanthus Petal sprinkles a subtle elegant touch.
More of the area’s fabulous Shrimp, quick light stir fried with minimal seasoning. Vinegar dipping sauce as needed.
Snow Fish with Chili Pepper. White Fish Flakes in a peppercorn prep cooked with Cucumber. Well balanced, the sweet fish not overwhelmed by the Sichuan peppercorns.
We took some of the sauce to take back. We have some Goat meat in fridge that will benefit from this delicious sauce.
Continue to be impressed with the vegetable cooking here. Chinese Yam, Mushroom, Snow Peas, Carrots, Broccoli and Wood Ears. Simply quick wok’d and seasoned with a delicate hand.
This is only our second visit to Grandma’s, first time was in Guangzhou. Solid two for two, we’ll be back.
