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Cordyceps Flower, Pearl Oyster Meat and Green-Lip Abalone Soup

traditionally used to nourish the liver, support eye health, and promote general vitality

By · Registered Nutritionist & TCM Practitioner

Prep
30 min
Cook
3 hr
Total
3 hr 30 min
Makes
1.2 L
Liver WellnessEnergy & VitalityEye WellnessEveryday Balance
Cordyceps Flower, Pearl Oyster Meat and Green-Lip Abalone Soup

Why people make this soup

Abalone has long been known in Cantonese cuisine as “ming mu yu” — the eye-brightening fish — and in traditional food therapy it is associated with calming internal heat, nourishing the liver and supporting comfortable vision. Combined with pearl oyster meat, which is deeply nourishing and associated with the eyes and kidneys, and cordyceps flower, which adds kidney-protecting and anti-fatigue properties, the result is a soup that is exceptional in both flavour and nourishing effect. Rich and beautifully fragrant, it is one of those recipes reserved for when you want to give someone — or yourself — a genuine boost.

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Frequently asked questions

What is this soup traditionally used for?

This soup is traditionally prepared to nourish the liver, support comfortable vision, and calm the spirit. It is also noted as excellent for post-illness recovery and general deep nourishment.

What does each key ingredient traditionally contribute in this recipe?

Abalone is traditionally associated with calming internal heat, nourishing the liver, and supporting comfortable vision. Pearl oyster meat is deeply nourishing and commonly associated with the eyes and kidneys. Cordyceps flower adds kidney-protecting and anti-fatigue properties.

Why must the abalone be cooked whole and only sliced at the table?

Cutting the abalone before cooking makes the flesh tough and chewy. Cooking it whole throughout the 3-hour simmer and slicing it only when you are ready to eat is the key to keeping the flesh tender.

Can I substitute pearl oyster meat if it is unavailable or too expensive?

Yes. The recipe suggests substituting dried whelk or dried scallop column, or simply adding extra goji berries and omitting the pearl oyster meat entirely.

How much soup does this recipe make, and how long does it take?

The recipe yields approximately 1.2 litres of broth. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, and cooking takes 3 hours, for a total time of around 3 hours 30 minutes.

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