Is lotus stem rich in iron?

Q: Dry lotus stem is said to have a high iron content. How should it be consumed? What we get in the stores is dry slices to be deep fried in oil. Will deep frying reduce the iron content?

A:Lotus stem is a great source of iron. Deep frying will not reduce the iron content but will greatly increase the fat content of your diet. Try this low cal version:Ingredients: Lotus stem -100 gm Salt - to taste Yellow chilli powder -1 tsp Mashed potatoes - 40 gm Chopped green chilli - 1 tsp Chopped ginger - 1 tsp Grated cottage cheese - 40 gm Garam masala powder - 1/2 tsp Grated cheese - 20 gm Method: Clean and boil the lotus stem. Grate the boiled lotus stem and mix it with the rest of the ingredients. Skewer the mixture and cook them in the tandoor till they are done. Or try thisNadroo Yakhni (Lotus Stem in a White Curry)Ingredients500 gm lotus stem500 gm yoghurt100 gm ghee25 gm dry ginger powder25 gm green cardamom powder50 gm fennel powder02 gm bay leaves05 gm asafetidasalt to tasteMethod -Cut the lotus stem into 1/2 inch pieces.-Whip the yoghurt. -Boil 1 litre of water and cook lotus stems for 10 minutes. Add all the ingredients and cook briskly for another 15 minutes stirring constantly until the lotus root is tender and the gravy is creamy.Serve as an accompaniment with rice. You should be able to purchase the lotus stem from any local vendor.