Yacon, Corn & Carrot Soup

Why people make this soup

Yacon looks like a sweet potato but behaves quite differently in the body: its natural sweetness comes mainly from fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a type of prebiotic fibre that is not absorbed by the body the way sugar is. Instead, FOS feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which supports digestive health, and research on FOS suggests it may also help modulate blood lipid and cholesterol levels. In Chinese food therapy, yacon is valued for clearing heat, lubricating the intestines, and supporting liver function. Paired with corn — which in Chinese food therapy supports the heart and digestion — and carrot, which nourishes the eyes and liver, this simple three-ingredient soup is about as gentle and broadly beneficial as soups get: neither warming nor cooling, pleasant tasting, and suitable for the whole family.

Method

1. Peel the yacon and carrot; cut both into chunks.
2. Remove the husks from the corn cobs and cut each into 3–4 sections.
3. Place all ingredients into a pot with 2.1 L of water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a medium-low simmer for 1 hour.
5. The soup can be served as a savoury broth, or seasoned to taste. The cooked ingredients are also enjoyable to eat.

Nourilo’s Tips

This is a gentle, refreshing soup that works equally well as a savoury broth or a lightly sweet soup. Regular consumption is associated with clearing liver toxins, preventing acne and spots, and reducing the likelihood of developing kidney stones. Add lean pork or chicken if you prefer a more complete meal.