Ginkgo, Fox Nut, Flower Mushroom and Dried Oyster Soup

Why people make this soup

As women enter menopause, falling hormone levels affect body and mind, and the familiar “menopausal syndrome” can bring hot flushes and night sweats, palpitations and anxiety, feeling cold, dizziness and ringing ears, restless sleep, mood swings, and — among other things — more frequent urination, especially at night. Nourilo’s pick here is nourishing and tasty, suitable for all ages and traditionally regarded as especially supportive for women in menopause. Dried oysters are plumpest in winter; those harvested in October and November are richest in glycogen, and they carry many amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and zinc, traditionally associated with supporting memory.

Method

1. Shell the ginkgo nuts and remove the cores.
2. Soak and rinse the fox nut and mushrooms; trim the mushroom stems.
3. Pit the red dates; soak and rinse the dried oysters.
4. Simmer everything in 2.4 L of water for about 1.5 hours, reducing to 1.2 L. Eat the ingredients along with the soup.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is traditionally regarded as beneficial for anemia and high blood pressure as well. Remember: the ginkgo core is mildly toxic and must be removed before cooking.