Fresh Palm Fruit, Almond and Partridge Soup

Why people make this soup

Asian grocers and Chinese supermarkets often sell fresh white slices labelled “fresh sea coconut” (xian hai di ye). Nourilo explains the story behind the name: the true sea coconut (hai di ye) is the rare coco de mer from Seychelles, a highly prized and expensive specialty. What is sold as “fresh sea coconut” at most shops is actually the fruit of a sugar palm tree, grown widely in Southeast Asia. It is a different plant — but it has its own genuine therapeutic value: it moistens the lungs, dissolves phlegm, and eases coughing. So it is a worthwhile, accessible ingredient in its own right, even if it is not the legendary exotic variety.

Combined with apricot kernels, sweet carrot, and nourishing partridge, this soup comes out naturally sweet and fragrant — comforting on a dry-weather day when you want to support your skin and lungs.