Nourilo

Soups

Burdock, Goji Berry, Fig, and Carrot Pork Rib Soup

Traditionally associated with nourishing the liver and kidneys, supporting immunity, and promoting elimination

By · Registered Nutritionist & TCM Practitioner

Prep
15 min
Cook
60 min
Total
75 min
Makes
1.2 L
Cleansing & RegularityChildren's WellnessLiver WellnessKidney & Urinary WellnessImmune SupportEveryday Balance
Burdock, Goji Berry, Fig, and Carrot Pork Rib Soup

Why people make this soup

Burdock root became a staple in many Hong Kong and Cantonese households in recent decades, and Nourilo is a fan. This long, earthy root is rich in dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals, and it contains inulin — a prebiotic fibre that traditionally has been associated with hormonal support, strengthening tendons and bones, and clearing waste from the intestines. In traditional food therapy, burdock is also regarded as helpful for supporting stroke prevention and maintaining stomach and uterine health.

Paired with goji berries (which nourish the liver and brighten the eyes), dried figs (another traditionally anti-inflammatory food), and sweet carrot, this is a soup that the whole family can enjoy together as a nourishing, clean-tasting everyday bowl. It is particularly valued for its gentle detoxifying quality — helping the body move waste rather than accumulating it.

Members only

Unlock the full method & Nourilo's tips

One payment, lifetime access to every one of our 2,303 recipes — step-by-step methods, preparation tips and serving notes.

  • Full step-by-step method for this and all 2,303 recipes
  • Nourilo's Tips — sourcing, substitutions and serving notes
  • One-time payment via PayPal · no subscription, no renewals

Checking your access…

Frequently asked questions

Who is this soup suitable for?

This soup suits the whole family, including children and the elderly. It is particularly valued for those with a history of stroke or cardiovascular issues, and its gentle, clean-tasting nature makes it an everyday bowl the whole household can share.

What role does burdock root traditionally play in this soup?

In traditional food therapy, burdock root is associated with helping the body move waste from the intestines, supporting tendons and bones, and maintaining stomach health. It contains inulin, a prebiotic fibre commonly associated with hormonal support and natural elimination.

What are goji berries and dried figs traditionally used for in this recipe?

Goji berries are traditionally used to nourish the liver and brighten the eyes, while dried figs are traditionally regarded as an anti-inflammatory food. Together with burdock and carrot, they contribute to the soup's gentle detoxifying quality as part of a balanced diet.

How long does this soup take to prepare and how much does it make?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes and cooking takes approximately 1 hour, for a total time of around 75 minutes. The recipe yields approximately 1.2 litres of soup.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes — the pork ribs can be swapped for lean pork, fresh fish, or plant-based proteins such as yellow soybeans or cashews. If cooking a vegetarian version, soybeans or cashews make an excellent base.

You might also like

Related recipes

More soups →

Comments

Loading comments…