Mung Bean, Lotus Seed and Lily Bulb Soup

Why people make this soup

In summer, Nourilo recommends making mung bean soup regularly as an everyday food-therapy dish. Mung beans are rich in dietary fibre, which supports normal bowel movement, and also contain B vitamins associated with normal metabolism.

In traditional Chinese food therapy, mung beans are considered cooling and are traditionally used to clear heat and resolve toxins. Nourilo notes that for children troubled by prickly heat and itchy skin in summer, mung beans are sometimes cooked with rue; he also mentions the traditional use of liquorice alongside mung beans. These practices should only be regarded as supportive food therapy — avoiding food poisoning and unsafe foods remains the priority.

Today’s mung bean, lotus seed and lily bulb soup is especially suited to hot weather and is often turned to by people who sleep restlessly or feel anxious.