Tea-Tree Mushroom (Agrocybe), Black Bean and Pork Shin Soup

Why people make this soup

Tea-tree mushrooms are tasty and crunchy, with a pine-and-milk fragrance that makes them a pleasure in both soups and stir-fries. In food-therapy terms they are associated with nourishing both yin and yang, supporting the spleen, and easing urination. Paired with black soybeans and pork shin, this soup is traditionally used to nourish the kidneys and gently ease water retention, while still being a warm, comforting everyday bowl.

Method

1. Trim and rinse the tea-tree mushrooms. Rinse and soak the black beans. Blanch the pork shin.
2. Put everything in a pot with 2.4 L of water and simmer down to 1.2 L.
3. Drink the soup and eat the ingredients.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is warming and kindly to the stomach — the whole family can drink it. It’s also said to be helpful for people watching their blood pressure and cholesterol. You can use about 38 g of dried tea-tree mushrooms if fresh aren’t available; both fresh and dried are available at Chinese or Asian grocers, or online.