Fresh Lily Bulb, Mung Bean and Seaweed Soup

Why people make this soup

Fresh lily bulb — the kind with thick, pearly scales that look like a miniature white lotus — is one of the most versatile ingredients in Cantonese food therapy. Unlike many dried tonic herbs, it is equally at home in a sweet soup or a stir-fry with snap peas or celery. This particular combination draws together three ingredients that food therapy associates with heat-clearing and lung support: lily bulb to calm and moisten, mung beans to clear heat and detoxify, and seaweed to soften and reduce phlegm. Those recovering from respiratory illness, lingering post-infection inflammation, or simply living with a dry or congested respiratory system may find this soup a comforting and helpful regular dish.