Lotus Root, Dried Octopus and Red Kidney Bean Pork Rib Soup

Why people make this soup

Lotus root is one of those four-season staples that suits everyone, young or old. Paired with dried octopus it turns deeply savory and aromatic, and it has long been a favorite food-therapy soup for nursing mothers. Nourilo recommends this lotus-root, octopus and red-kidney-bean version as a nourishing, year-round pot that is traditionally associated with building the blood and supporting a bright complexion.

Method

1. Peel the lotus root, rinse and cut into chunks.
2. Rinse the dried octopus and cut it open; soak and rinse the kidney beans and peanuts; pit the red dates.
3. Blanch the pork ribs and the octopus together.
4. Put everything in a pot with 2.7 L of water and simmer 2 hours down to 1.2 L.
5. Serve the soup together with the ingredients.

Nourilo’s Tips

Lotus root dislikes iron, so use a clay, ceramic or Corningware pot rather than a bare metal one. This soup suits the whole family and is traditionally valued for postpartum blood deficiency and low milk supply, as well as for men feeling run-down.