Fresh Chinese Yam, Niu Da Li & Lean Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

Fresh niu da li root is sweet and aromatic and traditionally valued for clearing heat, moistening the lung and strengthening the sinews and channels. Paired with Chinese yam — which supports the spleen and kidney and tonifies qi — plus lotus seeds and lean pork, it makes a nourishing soup that strengthens the body and the sinews and bones. It is especially welcome for people whose lung, spleen and kidney run weak and who cough easily. Both fresh Chinese yam and fresh niu da li root are available at Chinese herb shops, Asian grocers, or online.

Method

1. Peel and chunk the fresh yam; soak and rinse the other ingredients.
2. Slice the lean pork and blanch it briefly.
3. Put everything in 2.4 L of water and simmer for 2 hours until reduced to 1.2 L.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is sweet and delicious, and old and young can enjoy it. It’s especially good for people with a weak spleen and stomach — but anyone with an unresolved cold or a fever should not take it.