Cicada Flower, Goji and Carrot Soup

Why people make this soup

Nourilo has long been struck by how closely the cicada flower’s life cycle mirrors that of cordyceps: a cicada larva colonised by a fungus, from whose head a pale, branching fruiting body emerges in summer, then dried for use. Folk tradition has used it for children’s restlessness, night-crying and weakening eyesight, and modern research has noted its composition is similar to cordyceps. Paired with goji, prinsepia kernel and carrot, this gentle soup is enjoyed to support the eyes and build general vitality.

Method

1. Soak the cicada flower until soft and wash off the mud and sand (keep the flower at the head and the mycelium on the body — do not discard them).
2. Rinse the goji and prinsepia kernel. Peel and chunk the carrots.
3. Put everything in a pot with a little oil and simmer for about 1 hour. The flower at the head of the cicada flower is edible.

Nourilo’s Tips

The vitamin A in carrots and goji is fat-soluble and protective for the optic nerve, so you must add a little oil to release these helpful compounds. If you are not vegetarian, add pork liver or lean pork. The cicada flower can look a little startling — chopping it finely makes it more appetising, and you can also cook it inside a soup bag.