Niu Da Li, Chinese Yam and Lotus Seed Lean Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

Flu is busiest in the autumn and winter and spreads easily, so Nourilo reminds children, elders and anyone fragile to take care. Beyond a flu shot and regular exercise, a nourishing pot of soup is one homely way to keep the body strong. This one uses ingredients traditionally said to support resistance and ease tiredness — and best of all it has almost no medicinal taste, so the little ones will not push it away.

Method

1. Peel and slice the millettia root; peel and slice the fresh yam; core and rinse the fresh lotus seeds; pit the red dates.
2. Slice and blanch the lean pork.
3. Combine everything with 2.4 L of water and simmer about 1.5 hours down to 1.2 L.

Nourilo’s Tips

Fresh millettia root is available at Chinese or Asian grocers and online. Some suppliers will peel and slice it for you on request. If you cannot find the fresh root, use about 38 g of the dried instead. The soup is fragrant and mild, good for young and old — but skip it if you are constipated or still have an unresolved cold.