Soups
Carrot, Potato and Fresh Fish Soup
Traditionally used to strengthen the spleen and support a child's appetite
Why people make this soup
Many children fill up on cold drinks, sweets and snacks and then have no appetite at mealtimes; over time the digestion turns delicate. Bro Niu’s gentle answer is a sweet, comforting soup of carrot, potato and fresh fish that the whole family can share. Traditionally it is associated with strengthening the spleen, boosting qi and nourishing the blood — a kind pot for a child who looks pale, thin and slow to grow.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Children with a weak spleen, poor appetite, pale and thin complexion, or slow growth.
- Sweet and gentle — the whole family, young and old, can share it.
- A mild everyday soup; use fresh, clean fish, and remind little ones to eat fresh fruit and home-made snacks between meals rather than junk food.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Red emperor fish (hong zhan yu): traditionally associated with strengthening the spleen and nourishing the blood, and it makes a sweet broth.
- Carrot (hong luo bo): rich in carotene; a wholesome, appetising vegetable.
- Potato (shu zai): soft and filling, easy on a delicate stomach.
- Lean pork and ginger (shou rou, sheng jiang): add body and warmth.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carrot | 1 | peeled, cut into chunks |
| Potatoes | 2–3 | peeled, cut into chunks |
| Red emperor / red sea bream | ~600 g | head and belly removed, pan-fried |
| Lean pork | ~150 g | sliced, blanched |
| Fresh ginger | 3 slices |
Method
- Trim the head and belly off the fish and pan-fry in a little oil until fragrant.
- Peel and chunk the carrot and potatoes; slice and blanch the pork.
- Put everything into a pot, add water and simmer about 1 hour down to about 4 bowls.
Bro Niu’s tips
Red emperor fish is traditionally said to strengthen the spleen and nourish the blood; it is available at fish counters and Chinese or Asian grocers. If you can’t find it, any other small sea fish will do. The soup is sweet and tasty — fine for the whole family, young and old.
Published August 2, 2011 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
