When choosing lotus roots at the grocery store, inspect them for any bruising or cuts. They should be smooth and a bit heavy for their size. Look for larger ones for this recipe. If you can only find small ones, use only 2 teaspoons of pork filling in each lotus root. Light soy sauce is a staple pantry ingredient in many Chinese households. It is lighter in color and sometimes saltier than regular soy sauce, though brands can vary. It is often preferred because it doesn't darken sauces, so vegetables and proteins remain vibrant in finished dishes.