Soups
Astragalus Codonopsis Goji Soup
traditionally tonifies qi and blood to support the immune system and the body's natural resistance
Why people make this soup
Flu seasons in Hong Kong can be intense — hospitals fill up, and even those who receive their flu vaccination can still get sick, because influenza strains shift and multiply. Beyond basic hygiene and vaccination, one practical approach is to keep the body in the strongest possible baseline state. This four-ingredient tonic has been a household favourite for exactly that. The combination of astragalus and codonopsis has been used for generations to replenish qi and energise the immune system’s cells. Goji berries and red dates round out the formula with blood nourishment and spleen support. The soup is deliberately flexible — you can add lean pork or quail for a savoury main, or a touch of rock sugar for a sweet version. Pregnant women and children can both enjoy it, making it one of those rare family soups that truly suits everyone at the table.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for adults, pregnant women, and children as a wellness-support soup
- Two servings per week is a good maintenance rhythm
- This soup is designed for building resistance before or between illnesses, not during active colds or flu — wait until recovered to use tonic preparations
- People who find pure tonic herbs make them feel dry or warm can add 4 qian ophiopogon (mai dong) or shiitake stone (shi hu) for a more moistening balance
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Astragalus root (bei qi): One of the most researched traditional tonic herbs. Associated with strengthening wei qi (protective energy), enhancing immune cell activity, and supporting resistance to pathogens. Rich in polysaccharides.
- Codonopsis root (dang shen): Often used as a gentler, more affordable substitute for ginseng. Associated with tonifying the lungs, nourishing the blood, and improving overall digestive energy.
- Goji berries (gou qi zi): Associated with nourishing the liver and kidneys, brightening vision, and providing antioxidant compounds.
- Red dates (hong zao): Support the spleen and stomach, nourish the blood, and add natural sweetness.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Astragalus root (bei qi) | 19 g (5 qian) | Rinse and soak briefly |
| Codonopsis root (dang shen) | 19 g (5 qian) | Rinse and soak briefly |
| Goji berries | 15 g (4 qian) | Rinse |
| Red dates | 8 pieces | Remove pits |
| Water | 8 bowls (~1.6 L) | — |
Optional additions
- For a savoury soup: add 1 quail or 150 g lean pork
- For a sweeter version: add a small piece of rock sugar
- To make it more moistening: add 4 qian (15 g) ophiopogon root (mai dong) or dendrobium (shi hu)
Method
- Rinse and briefly soak the astragalus and codonopsis.
- Pit the red dates; rinse the goji berries.
- Combine all ingredients in a pot with 8 bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 1 hour 30 minutes until liquid reduces to about 4 bowls.
- Add rock sugar if desired; stir until dissolved. Serve warm.
- Can add quail or lean pork for a heartier soup — extend cooking time to 2 hours in that case.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup pairs well with either sweet or savoury flavourings — a small amount of rock sugar creates a pleasant, warming tonic drink, while adding quail (known for nourishing the five organs) or lean pork makes it a satisfying everyday soup for the whole family. Make it two times per week during flu season or any period when energy is running low. Pregnant women and children can both drink it.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Cherie): I have been using codonopsis, astragalus, and south dates regularly but feel dry and hot after taking them. Should I switch to your recipe? Is there something to add? Bro Niu: You can add 4 qian of ophiopogon (mai dong) to the pot, or use shiitake stone (shi hu) — both have a yin-nourishing effect that will help balance the warming herbs and reduce the dry feeling.
Published July 15, 2017 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
