Royal Seafood USA Premium Raw White lotus seed, 225g dried lotus seeds, core removed, 莲子 natural herbal tea& soup, pack in USA, 九龍堂 莲子

These raw white lotus seeds cost an absolute fortune, failing completely on value for money which is a basic buyer expectation. They are simply very, very expensive. You look at the price for this product and expect something incredibly special, maybe something so pure or so unique it justifies the expense. Instead, you get what feels like standard lotus seeds but at an astronomical markup. Paying this amount for a small quantity of seeds feels profoundly wrong. The high price sets an expectation of premium quality or performance that the product does not meet. It is frustrating and feels like a complete rip off. The sheer expense taints the entire purchase experience, making it impossible to view this product positively.

I am certain this is a good snack or add-in for soups and stews. I personally tried to pop them on a hot skillet. They didn't pop, and after fifteen minutes even though I kept it moving they got a little dark. I then attempted to put them in the oven to roast to see if maybe my heat just wasn't consistent enough, still no popping. They were like eating a un-popped popcorn kernel but larger. And it had a strange aftertaste. Again, I think I did something wrong, I know that this method of cooking is possible. I am going to purchase more and try again. I will update with pictures when I do. I am fairly certain my mistakes are not the fault of the seller. The product looked fine and was within the best-by date. These are obviously not edible as-is. They need to be either soaked and boiled, or dry roasted and popped (think dried corn kernels, or beans). There were no instructions on the package.