Fried Burdock Root

Steps

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1. 1
   Scrape off the outer skin of the burdock root using the back of a knife, rinse it quickly, and cut into sticks about 5-6 cm long. Then cut each stick into four equal vertical pieces to create evenly-sized burdock sticks.
   ▶ ≈1:51
2. 2
   Soak the cut burdock sticks in cold water for about 5 minutes to prevent discoloration, then drain thoroughly.
   ▶ ≈3:06
3. 3
   Prepare the batter: add mayonnaise to a bowl and slowly incorporate cold water while mixing to avoid lumps. Once the mayonnaise becomes watery, add the remaining water. Then add grated garlic, consommé, and soy sauce, and mix well. Finally, add all-purpose flour and potato starch, and gently mix until no lumps remain.
   ▶ ≈3:26
4. 4
   Pat the drained burdock sticks dry thoroughly, then add them to the batter and mix well to ensure each stick is evenly coated.
   ▶ ≈4:33
5. 5
   Add about 1 cm of oil to a frying pan and heat over medium heat for about 1.5 minutes until it reaches approximately 170°C. Test the temperature by inserting a burdock stick—small bubbles should appear at the tip.
   ▶ ≈4:54
6. 6
   Add the coated burdock sticks to the hot oil without stirring initially. After about 1.5 minutes, flip them over. Continue frying over medium heat for about 4 minutes until the coating becomes crispy.
   ▶ ≈5:22
7. 7
   Finally, increase the heat to high and fry for about 1 minute to achieve a crispier coating and more even browning. Once the sticks are golden and fully cooked, remove them and let them drain on paper towels for about 3 minutes.
   ▶ ≈6:16