Authentic Vietnamese Che Sen Nha Xao Recipe - Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with This Delightful Dish!

Ingredients

200 grams of Nha Sen (lotus stems)
150 grams of shrimp, peeled and deveined
150 grams of squid, cleaned and sliced into rings
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small red chili, finely chopped
1 tablespoon of fish sauce
1 teaspoon of sugar
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Steps and instructions

Begin by preparing your lotus stems. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water, then slice them into thin rounds.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and chopped chili to the pan and sauté them until they become fragrant.
Add the shrimp and squid to the pan. Sauté until they are cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add the sliced lotus stems to the pan and stir-fry them with the seafood for another 2-3 minutes.
Season the mixture with fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Add the chopped green onions and give everything a final stir.
Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Che Sen Nha Xao to a serving dish.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Tools for making

Wok or Frying Pan - A large cooking vessel with high, sloping sides, used for stir-frying and sautéing the ingredients.
Knife - A sharp tool used for slicing and chopping the lotus stems, garlic, chili, and green onions.
Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for safely cutting and preparing the ingredients.
Tongs or Spatula - Utensils for tossing, stirring, and flipping the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring Spoons - Tools for accurately measuring the fish sauce, sugar, and salt.
Plate or Serving Dish - A dish for presenting the finished Che Sen Nha Xao.
Garnish Sprigs - Optional tools for adding a final touch of fresh cilantro leaves for garnish.

Recipe variations

Substitute lotus stems with julienned bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Replace shrimp and squid with chicken or beef for a meat-based version.
Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor and texture.
For a vegetarian option, omit the seafood and replace it with tofu or tempeh.
Experiment with different spices such as ginger, lemongrass, or curry powder to enhance the flavor profile.
Include other vegetables like snow peas, carrots, or baby corn for added crunch.
Add a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of soy sauce for a tangy twist.
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Try garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for a nutty texture.
Serve the dish over steamed rice or noodles to make it a complete meal.

Recipe overview

Che Sen Nha Xao, or stir-fried lotus stem with seafood, is a unique and delicious dish from Vietnamese cuisine. This recipe beautifully combines the crunchiness of the lotus stems with the flavors of shrimp and squid, all tied together with the richness of garlic and chili. Cooked in a simple yet flavorful stir-fry method, this dish guarantees an unforgettable dining experience. Expect a savory, spicy, and slightly sweet taste, with a delightful mix of textures. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, Che Sen Nha Xao is a must-try for all seafood and Vietnamese food lovers.

Common questions

Can I use canned lotus stems instead of fresh? No, it is recommended to use fresh lotus stems for this recipe to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the seafood with other proteins? Yes, you can substitute the shrimp and squid with other seafood such as fish or scallops. Alternatively, you can use chicken or tofu as a vegetarian option.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish? Yes, you can omit the seafood and use tofu or other plant-based proteins instead. Additionally, use vegetarian fish sauce or soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the red chili. Alternatively, if you like it spicy, you can add more chili or even sprinkle some chili flakes as a garnish.
What can I serve this dish with? Che Sen Nha Xao pairs well with steamed rice or noodles. It can also be enjoyed as a side dish alongside other Vietnamese dishes.

Serving dishes and utensils

Wok - A large, deep cooking pan with high sides, perfect for stir-frying the ingredients.
Frying pan - A shallow pan with a flat bottom, used for sautéing the garlic and chili.
Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the lotus stems and preparing other ingredients.
Cutting board - A flat surface for safely cutting and chopping ingredients.
Tongs - Useful for flipping and turning the shrimp and squid while cooking.
Spatula - A utensil for stirring and tossing the ingredients while stir-frying.
Serving dish - A platter or bowl to present and serve the Che Sen Nha Xao.
Garnish - Fresh cilantro leaves to sprinkle on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Origin stories

Che Sen Nha Xao is a delightful dish that hails from Vietnam, a country known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. The lotus, from which the lotus stem is harvested, holds a special place in Vietnamese culture. Revered for its beauty and resilience, the lotus is considered a symbol of purity and spiritual enlightenment, and it's even the national flower of Vietnam. A fascinating aspect of this plant is its versatility. Almost all parts of the lotus plant can be used in Vietnamese cuisine, from the petals to the roots. And this dish, Che Sen Nha Xao, showcases the lotus stem, bringing out its unique texture and mild flavor in a wonderful stir-fry with seafood. So, when you're enjoying this dish, you're not just savoring a delicious meal — you're also partaking in a piece of Vietnam's rich cultural and culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.