Black-Eyed Pea, Peanut and Shiitake Soup

Why people make this soup

Some people drink too much water or soup at night and wake up puffy the next morning — often a sign the body is moving fluids slowly. Nourilo’s answer is black-eyed peas, which in the southern Chinese tradition are valued for promoting urination and easing puffiness. The darker black-eyed pea is regarded as more effective than the pale kind; combined with peanuts, shiitake and cashews, the soup is both nourishing and traditionally associated with supporting the kidney and lower back.

Method

1. Soak and rinse all the ingredients.
2. Simmer in 2.4 L of water for about 2 hours, down to 1.2 L. Serve the soup together with the ingredients.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is traditionally considered beneficial for those minding their kidney health. If you cannot find the black-eyed pea’s black variety, ordinary black-eyed peas are fine. Since the pot is full of beans and nuts, add the tangerine peel to help move qi.