Fresh Burdock, Rice Bean and Mung Bean Soup

Why people make this soup

Burdock tea bags are common in supermarkets, but Nourilo prefers fresh burdock root — and the thinner kind, which is more fragrant and effective. Fresh burdock is available at Chinese or Asian grocers. Burdock is traditionally valued for supporting the liver and the heart-and-blood vessels, with a cooling, anti-inflammatory reputation. Simmered with rice bean and mung bean, it makes a clean pot traditionally drunk to clear heat — and often given when a child has swollen, inflamed glands (such as with mumps).