From The Food Encyclopedia by Jacques Rolland and Carol Sherman
also golden needles. Hemerocallis buds, from the tiger lily, picked when they are between 3 to 5 inches (7.5 to 12.5 cm) long; they retain their yellow color when dried. Before use, they are soaked in water to soften them; then, the chewy buds are chopped, scored or knotted to release their gentle floral, fruity flavor. Called golden needles, the dried buds, symbols of gold and wealth, are familiar ingredients in dishes, such as hot-and-sour soup. They are also mixed into various foods for good luck during celebrations of the Chinese New Year.
