You might be able to find the fresh corms at an Asian market. I remember seeing them in Vancouver which has a fabulous Chinatown where we used to go to buy fresh lychee. Always thought it would be too much trouble to have to peel the water chestnuts, but my view has changed a lot since then . . if we knew then what we know now, huh??
Btw, Jill lotus roots are edible, too. You've heard the term "Lotus Eaters" ? I've never tried one, though.
