Green Papaya, Snow Fungus, Almond and Fig Soup

Why people make this soup

Green papaya — firm-fleshed and not yet at the soft sweetness of ripe fruit — is a different ingredient altogether in the pot. Traditionally valued for looking after the gut and the complexion, it pairs naturally with snow fungus, almond and dried figs, all classic “smooth the bowels” ingredients. Together they make a gentle, everyday soup that is light, lightly sweet and easy on the digestion.

Method

1. Peel and seed the green papaya and cut into chunks. Soak the snow fungus until soft and trim off the tough base.
2. Rinse the almonds and figs.
3. Add all ingredients to 2.1 L of water and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Stir in rock sugar to taste and reduce to about 1.2 L. Serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

The soup is clean and lightly sweet — fine for the whole family. A word on sourcing figs: opt for a trusted, good-quality dried fig from a reputable supplier. It is worth checking for any chemical smell before cooking, as some lower-grade imports may carry preservatives that soaking cannot fully remove. And remember: pregnant women should skip the papaya.