Fresh Dendrobium, Yam, Lily Bulb & Ophiopogon Pork Shin Soup

Why people make this soup

Staying up late takes a toll — dryness in the mouth and throat, poor focus, weaker memory, rougher skin, and over time a more easily run-down immune system. Nourilo reminds us that sleep is when the body repairs itself, so try not to make late nights a habit. For those who do burn the midnight oil for work or study, this soup is traditionally used to support qi and yin, ease internal dryness and settle the stomach.

Method

1. Rinse the fresh dendrobium and cut into sections. Peel the yam and cut into chunks. Soak and rinse the lily bulb and ophiopogon. Pit the jujubes.
2. Cut the pork shin into chunks and blanch.
3. Add everything to 2.4–2.7 L of water.
4. Simmer about 1.5 hours until reduced to 1.2 L.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is clear, moistening and tasty — suitable for young and old. It is traditionally considered helpful for a dry mouth and poor appetite after a COVID infection. If you can only get dried dendrobium instead of fresh, use about 11 g (around 11 g).