Dragon Tongue Leaf, Apple, Carrot and Lean Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

Dry weather and rich, spicy meals are a predictable combination in cooler months — and for many families, the result is an itchy throat, a persistent dry cough, and constipation. Nourilo has a particular soft spot for fresh dragon tongue leaf because it solves a common parenting dilemma: when a child is coughing but you cannot tell whether it is a hot or cold cough, this leaf is one of the few ingredients that works across both types. Its nature is gentle and balanced — not cooling enough to make a cold cough worse, not warming enough to inflame a hot one.

Dragon tongue leaf (long li ye) has a mild, slightly sweet taste and is traditionally valued for clearing heat, dissolving phlegm, and easing bowel movements. Combined with apple for gentle moistening, carrot for sweetness and carotene, and apricot kernels as the classic lung-supporting kernel, this soup is a solid family standby for respiratory wellness — one that is mild enough to serve to toddlers and safe for nursing mothers.

Method

1. Rinse the dragon tongue leaf thoroughly under running water.
2. Wash the apple well, keeping the skin on. Remove and discard the core (the seeds and core contain bitter compounds). Cut the apple into thick wedges.
3. Peel the carrot and cut into large chunks.
4. Blanch the lean pork in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and slice.
5. Place all ingredients into a pot with 2.1 L of water.
6. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a low simmer.
7. Simmer for 1 hour until the broth is naturally sweet and fragrant.
8. Season lightly with salt and serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

• This soup is mild and gentle enough for the whole family including young children. Serve children a smaller portion adjusted for their age and size.
• For particularly heavy phlegm, a quarter of a dried monk fruit (luo han guo) can be added to the soup without making it too cooling.
• If pear is available, it can substitute for or complement the apple — remove the core and seeds, as these have mild toxicity.
• This soup is safe for nursing mothers and pregnant women, making it a reliable household remedy during the colder months.