Soups
Apple, Snow Fungus and Partridge Soup
Traditionally strengthens digestion and moistens the lungs
Why people make this soup
People who entertain a lot and drink often are more prone to fatty liver — and the humble apple we eat every day is traditionally said to open the appetite and ease the after-effects of alcohol (pressed fresh, it is even associated with helping gallstones). This soup pairs apple with snow fungus and partridge for a clear, gently sweet pot that is traditionally said to strengthen the digestion, moisten the lungs and comfort the heart — a good everyday companion for those watching their liver or drinking regularly.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People managing fatty liver or who drink alcohol regularly; suitable for young and old as a home wellness soup.
- This is gentle, but managing fatty liver also means cutting back on alcohol and rich food. If liver issues are significant, see a doctor.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Apple (ping guo): Traditionally opens the appetite and eases the after-effects of alcohol.
- Snow fungus (xue er): Traditionally moistens the lungs and nourishes fluids.
- Partridge (zhe gu): A clear, light source of nourishment that is gentle on the stomach; can be swapped for lean pork.
- Ginger (sheng jiang): Warms the middle and rounds out the soup.
Ingredients (3–4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 2–3 | Cored, cut into chunks |
| Snow fungus | ~3 qian (11 g) | Soaked, stem removed |
| Partridge | 1 | Cleaned, blanched (or use lean pork) |
| Fresh ginger | 2 slices |
Method
- Core the apples and cut into chunks.
- Soak the snow fungus and remove the stem.
- Clean and gut the partridge, then blanch it.
- Place all ingredients in a pot with 8 bowls of water.
- Simmer for about 2 hours down to 3–4 bowls. Serve.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is clear, moistening and gently nourishing — good for young and old as a regular home soup. For the whole family, add a little lean pork. You can also add dried lily bulb, sea coconut (hai di ye) and a few red dates; it then doubles as a soup to moisten the lungs and ease cough.
Community questions answered (selected)
-
Q (Grace): Can I use quail instead of partridge? Bro Niu: Yes, you can use quail instead.
-
Q (Can): Can I add dried lily bulb, sea coconut and red dates, and use lean pork instead of partridge? Bro Niu: Yes — add a little dried lily bulb, sea coconut and a few red dates, and lean pork can replace the partridge. The soup then also moistens the lungs and eases cough.
-
Q (yc): If I don’t use partridge, what can replace it? Bro Niu: Lean pork can replace it.
Published December 2, 2010 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
