Papaya, Snow Fungus and Lean Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

When papaya is in season, Nourilo likes to put it to work. Ripe papaya is traditionally said to nourish yin, moisten dryness and bring a glow to the skin, while green papaya supports the spleen and stomach. Paired with snow fungus and figs in a lean pork soup, it comes out sweet and clear — just the thing for a dry season.

Method

1. Peel and seed the papaya and cut into chunks; soak the snow fungus and remove its stem; slice and blanch the pork.
2. Put everything in a pot with 1.8 L of water and simmer about 1 hour down to roughly 1.2 L. Drink the soup and eat the ingredients.

Nourilo’s Tips

The whole family can drink this, and it is traditionally said to suit those with gastritis, constipation or a dry-lung cough. Nursing mothers find it supports milk supply — but pregnant women should not use papaya, as it is traditionally said to cause mild uterine contraction.