Soups

Green Papaya, Octopus, Chestnut and Fig Soup

Name: Green Papaya, Octopus, Chestnut and Fig Soup
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Yield: 1.2–1.5 L
Cuisine: Asian, Wellness
Ingredients: Green papaya — 1; Dried octopus — 75 g; Chestnuts — 10, peeled (80 g); Dried figs — 4 (60 g); Fresh ginger — 2 slices (10 g); Pork shin — 1 piece

Traditionally used to strengthen bones and sinews and support against inflammation

By Bro Niu · Registered Nutritionist & TCM Practitioner

Prep: 25 min
Cook: 2 hr
Total: 2 hr 25 min
Makes: 1.2–1.5 L

Bone & Joint Wellness Everyday Balance

Green Papaya, Octopus, Chestnut and Fig Soup

Why people make this soup

Nourilo loves green papaya in soup — it’s nutritious, rich in vitamins C and K, papain and choline, all of which help keep bones healthy and support the body against inflammation. Paired with octopus, chestnut, fig and pork shin, it becomes a soup that strengthens bones and sinews for children and elders alike.

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Frequently asked questions

Who is this soup suitable for?

This soup is fragrant and tasty, fine for young and old. It is traditionally enjoyed by children and elders alike, and those with stomach ulcers or stomach trouble may also find green papaya suits them, as it is noted to protect the stomach and intestinal lining.

Should pregnant women drink this soup?

Pregnant women should avoid this soup, as papaya may make the uterus contract. Lotus root can be used in place of green papaya as an alternative.

What is this soup traditionally associated with?

This soup is traditionally used to strengthen bones and sinews and support the body against inflammation, as part of a balanced, nourishing diet.

How long does this soup take to make, and how much does it yield?

Preparation takes about 25 minutes, followed by 2 hours of simmering, for a total time of 2 hours and 25 minutes. The soup yields approximately 1.2 to 1.5 litres.

Why is green papaya used in this soup?

Green papaya is nutritious and rich in vitamins C and K, papain, and choline, all of which are commonly associated with helping keep bones healthy and supporting the body against inflammation.

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