Lotus Root, Red Bean, Dried Duck Kidney and Pork Ribs Soup

Why people make this soup

Cold weather has many people reaching for warming soups, but not everyone tolerates the rich, hot-natured broths well. If you tend to feel warm easily, often stay up late, or have a constitution that runs dry, a gentle nourishing soup is a better choice than something heavily warming. Lotus root is a wonderful winter ingredient — it supports circulation and is soothing rather than heating. Paired with dried duck kidney and pork ribs for savory depth, and red beans and red dates for blood nourishment, this soup strikes a balance that most people can enjoy throughout the colder months.

Method

1. Peel the lotus root and cut into large chunks.
2. Soak and rinse the red beans and dried tangerine peel separately.
3. Pit the red dates.
4. Blanch the dried duck kidneys and pork ribs in boiling water for a few minutes; drain and rinse.
5. Place all ingredients in a pot with 2.7 L of water.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours until reduced to about 1.2 L.
7. Serve; eat the soup and the solid ingredients together.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is pleasant and mellow — it helps stimulate appetite and is particularly kind to children and elderly people who are eating poorly. If you want a more warming effect to ward off the cold, add a few extra slices of fresh ginger when cooking.