Walnut, Black Sesame, Red Bean and Black Rice Sweet Soup

Why people make this sweet soup

Many women who work long hours, study late, or tend toward a physically weaker constitution can experience irregular periods, lighter-than-usual flow, or menstrual cramping. In traditional Chinese food therapy, these patterns are often linked to what practitioners call “blood deficiency” or “kidney deficiency.” Nourilo recommends this warming, gently sweet soup especially in the days before and after menstruation — it combines some of the most time-honoured blood-nourishing ingredients into a single comforting pot. If your constitution runs cold and you find that icy drinks make symptoms worse, this warming soup is a practical and delicious way to support yourself throughout the month.

Method

1. Rinse and briefly soak all ingredients — the red beans and black rice benefit from 30–60 minutes of soaking for a smoother result.
2. Place all ingredients except the brown sugar into a pot with 2.1 L of water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a medium-low simmer.
4. Cook for about 30 minutes until the beans are tender and the liquid is fragrant and slightly thickened.
5. Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Serve warm, ideally in the days before or after menstruation.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is designed to warm the womb and nourish the blood. It is particularly well suited to the days before and after your period. It also benefits people who look pallid, suffer from frequent lower back ache, dizziness, tinnitus, or have to wake often at night for the bathroom. The whole family can enjoy it as a general tonic. Black glutinous rice or deep purple-black rice can be used interchangeably. If you prefer, brown sugar can be replaced with dark cane sugar (black sugar). This sweet soup makes 2–3 servings and is not just for menstrual support — it nourishes the five organ systems and makes a lovely everyday dessert.