Adzuki Bean, Black-Eyed Pea, Job's Tears and Old Cucumber Soup

Why people make this soup

Nourilo here. In the heat of summer I love using gourds and melons in soup, and old cucumber and winter melon are both fine summer choices. Old cucumber is a favourite of mine — and a little tip: the two ends of a cucumber carry a touch of bitterness, but do not be too quick to cut it away, as that mild bitter note is part of what makes it good. Paired with adzuki bean, black-eyed pea and Job’s tears, this soup is traditionally enjoyed in hot, sticky weather, especially when you feel restless with dark, scanty urine and a touch of puffiness.