This store requires javascript to be enabled for some features to work correctly.
Dried lily bulb, known in Chinese as Bai He, is one of those ingredients that bridges food, culture, and tradition. These are the unopened buds of the daylily plant, carefully dried and kept much the same way they have been for generations. With a mild, slightly woody sweetness and a soft, starchy bite, they’ve been part of Chinese cooking for over 2,000 years. They’re still cooked today in soups and teas but also turn up in stir-fries and even desserts. This 100g pack is a simple way to bring Bai He into your own kitchen without buying in bulk.
In Chinese households, Bai He isn’t just another dried ingredient. It’s linked with ideas of calm and balance, and because it symbolises renewal and prosperity, you’ll often see it served during the Lunar New Year. Traditionally, it was added to dishes believed to cool the body, settle the stomach, or simply bring a sense of comfort. While today many people focus on its gentle flavour and versatility, it’s also recognised as one of the best culinary herbs in the UK for anyone looking to cook authentic Chinese recipes at home.
The most common way to use Bai He is in soups. A handful simmered with chicken, pork, or vegetables adds a soft sweetness and extra depth. In stir-fries, it works well with greens or tofu, giving a chewy bite and earthy aroma. Many people also enjoy brewing it as a simple herbal tea, often mixed with Dried Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi) or Dried Jujube Dates (Hong Zao) for extra flavour. Beyond savoury dishes, Bai He is found in puddings, custards, and congee, where its subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with rice or milk. It is also classically cooked with Dried Lotus Seeds (Bai Lian Zi).
Cooling: Bai He has long been valued in traditional practices as a cooling ingredient, particularly in warmer months.
Calming: It is often included in gentle preparations enjoyed in the evening as part of a wind down routine.
Digestive Comfort: Traditionally added to soups and congee in meals intended to potentially settle and nourish.
Balance: Included in traditional blends that may support a sense of natural harmony.
Versatile and Nourishing: With its mild sweetness, Bai He works across savoury and sweet dishes alike.
We recommend around 10g per portion.
Rinse the bulbs, then soak in cold water for twenty to thirty minutes until they soften. Add them to soups and congee for the last fifteen minutes of cooking, or stir into a stir-fry near the end so they keep their bite. For tea, simmer gently for ten to fifteen minutes.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
We keep our lily bulbs as natural as possible. That means no sulphur treatment, which is commonly used to brighten appearance but alters the plant’s natural state. Instead, we work with DaoDi growers in regions where lily bulbs have been cultivated for centuries. Since 2010, our partnerships with trusted farmers have ensured herbs that are authentic, carefully harvested, and dried to preserve their character.
If you’re just getting started with Bai He, this smaller pouch is ideal. It gives you enough to try in soups, teas, and desserts without committing to a big bag. It’s also easy to store, resealable, and won’t take up much room in your kitchen. If you cook with it often, the same bulbs come in a 500g pack, or as concentrated granules.
What is Dried Lily Bulb (Bai He)?They are unopened buds of the daylily plant, dried and used in Chinese cooking for thousands of years.
What does Bai He taste like?It has a gentle sweetness with woody, earthy notes, subtle but distinctive.
How do I cook with Bai He?Add it to soups or stir-fries, brew it as a tea, or try it in desserts like rice pudding or custard.
What are the traditional benefits of Bai He?It’s been linked with cooling properties, digestive support, and relaxation in Chinese traditions.
Is the 100g size right for me?Yes, it’s a manageable size if you’re curious to try Bai He or only plan to use it occasionally.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
