Soups
Millettia, Eucommia, Chestnut and Conch Soup
Traditionally supports the kidneys and strengthens tendons and bones
Why people make this soup
Bro Niu picked up some fresh millettia root at a wild-herb stall — fresh, it has a lovely natural sweetness without a heavy medicinal taste. The thick root looks a bit like lotus root, which is why it is also called “mountain lotus root.” This rich, fragrant soup is a long-loved choice for people with a tired, achy lower back, and it suits the whole family, from children to elders, because it is traditionally associated with strengthening tendons and bones.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Anyone with a tired, achy lower back from strain; suitable across all ages.
- Traditionally said to support a settled pregnancy, so it is also enjoyed by expectant mothers (often welcomed in late pregnancy for back comfort); after a C-section, wait until the second week.
- If you prefer it lighter, you can leave out the meat.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Millettia root (niu da li): traditionally used to strengthen tendons and ease the lower back.
- Eucommia bark (du zhong): a classic for supporting the lower back and knees; slightly bitter but well balanced here.
- Chestnut and red dates (li zi, hong zao): add sweetness and are associated with supporting the kidneys and spleen.
- Conch and pork bone (luo tou, xi shi gu): build a savory, nourishing base.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh millettia root | ~110 g | or ~37 g dried |
| Eucommia bark | ~18 g | |
| Dried chestnuts | ~75 g | |
| Red dates | 8 | pitted |
| Conch / whelk meat | ~75 g | |
| Pork backbone | ~300 g | |
| Water | 8 bowls |
Method
- Rinse the conch and pork bone, then blanch them.
- Soak and rinse the millettia and eucommia.
- Put everything in the pot with 8 bowls of water.
- Simmer about 3 hours down to 4 bowls. Serve.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is traditionally associated with supporting a settled pregnancy and easing the late-pregnancy backache, as well as soothing general tendon-and-bone fatigue.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (jenny1010): Is this soup okay for a mother after a C-section? Is eucommia hard to drink? Bro Niu: It can be taken from the second week after a C-section. Eucommia supports the lower back and knees and is a fine tonic; it is slightly bitter, but the chestnut and red/black dates make it easy to drink.
- Q (anonymous): Is it okay without meat? Bro Niu: Without meat, add a few more chestnuts for a sweeter, cleaner taste.
- Q (Ling): Can I add five-finger fig and carrot, and use fresh chestnuts? Bro Niu: Yes, you can add five-finger fig and carrot, and fresh chestnuts are even better.
Published June 3, 2011 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
