Lotus Seed Pods

I waded into the pond to collect the dried lotus seed pods. Alas, only three were within reach. There were others, but they were located over deeper water. I really didn't want to venture further than my nearly knee high boots would take me.

We use the dried pods for fall/winter decor. The loose seeds often fall out of the seed heads. Have you ever eaten a lotus seed? I haven't, but according to wikipedia raw lotus seeds are "low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, and are a good source of protein, thiamin, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and manganese." Not being our tradition, I wouldn't know how to go about eating one!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lotus_seed