Dried Lily Bulb (Bai He) | (500g)

Dried lily bulb, Bai He in Chinese, is a staple in many Asian kitchens, and not just for its taste. These pale, petal-like scales of the lily bulb have been part of cooking and tradition for over two millennia, often appearing in celebratory dishes and everyday meals alike. With their gentle sweetness and earthy aroma, they bring a quiet depth to soups, teas, and stir-fries. This 500g bag is perfect if you use Bai He often or enjoy cooking in larger batches.

Why Dried Lily Bulb (Bai He) Matters

For families across China, Bai He has always been more than an ingredient. It symbolises prosperity, appears in Lunar New Year feasts, and has long been included in recipes said to bring calm and balance. Traditionally, it was linked with cooling properties and enjoyed after hot weather or rich meals. That cultural weight still carries today, making Bai He one of the better-known traditional Chinese herb staples you’ll find in modern kitchens.

Using Bai He in Cooking and Tea

Soups are where Bai He really shines, simmered with vegetables, it adds a sweet, earthy tone. Stir-fried with greens, it offers texture and balance without overwhelming other flavours. In teas, lily bulbs are often paired with Dried Jujube Dates (Hong Zao) or Dried Chrysanthemum Flowers (Ju Hua) to make a gentle, soothing drink. And in desserts? They’re a natural fit for rice puddings, custards, or even congee, bringing a mild sweetness and chewy bite. They are also classically cooked with Dried Lotus Seeds (Bai Lian Zi).

Benefits Associated with Lily Bulb

Bai He has traditionally been valued for balance and relaxation. In traditional classification it is described as cooling, and it is often enjoyed during the summer months. It naturally contains dietary fibre, though it remains first and foremost a food ingredient with cultural depth.

Recommended Dosage

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.

Why the 500g Pack is Practical

If you’re a regular user, a family cook, or someone exploring Asian recipes in depth, the 500g pouch saves time and effort. You’ll have plenty on hand for soups, teas, or desserts and won’t need to reorder often. For anyone who enjoys working with Chinese large loose herb staples, this is the more practical choice. If you would rather try a smaller amount first, there is a 100g pack, or concentrated granules if you want to skip the soaking.

Vita Herbal Nutrition – Keeping It Natural

We’ve worked with DaoDi growers since 2010, choosing herbs from the regions where they thrive naturally. Our lily bulbs are sulphur-free, carefully harvested, and dried to preserve their gentle flavour. From field to packaging, the focus is always on authenticity and care.

FAQs – Dried Lily Bulb (Bai He) 500g

Why buy the 500g pack of Bai He?
It’s best for households, frequent users, or anyone preparing larger batches of soups and teas.

How is the lily bulb traditionally valued?
In Chinese traditions, Bai He was linked with cooling qualities, balance and relaxation.

How do I cook with dried lily bulb (Bai He)?
It can be added to soups, stir-fries, teas, or desserts like rice pudding and custard.

Is Bai He considered a large, loose herb in the UK?
Yes, it’s recognised as part of the classic large loose herbs UK used in traditional Chinese cooking.

What makes Vita Herbal Nutrition’s Bai He different?
Our lily bulbs are sulphur-free and carefully prepared to maintain their natural character.

Is dried lily bulb a good source of fibre?
Yes, lily bulbs naturally contain dietary fibre.

Can dried lily bulbs be consumed daily?
Of course! However, if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before regular use.