Astragalus, Codonopsis, Longan and Mountain Turtle Broth

In Cantonese culinary tradition, this broth is especially suited to people who have had surgery, experienced serious fever illness, or are recovering from cancer treatment — particularly those with signs of yin deficiency such as dry mouth, low-grade heat sensations, night sweats, or poor sleep. It is traditionally used to support recovery strength and nourishment after surgery or serious illness.

Astragalus root is paired in this soup for qi, while codonopsis root is traditionally associated with supporting the spleen and lungs. Together they form part of the classic tonic herb combination that makes this one of the more considered post-illness broths in the Cantonese repertoire.

Yes. The recipe notes that soft-shell turtle can be substituted if mountain turtle is unavailable, and wild-caught soft-shell turtle is described as excellent. The file also notes that if turtle is not accessible at all, the same herb combination can be simmered with pork loin or chicken for a still-nourishing recovery broth.

Preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, and the broth is then double-steamed over simmering water for 3 hours, bringing the total time to roughly 3 hours and 20 minutes.

One batch yields approximately 0.9 to 1.2 litres of broth, which serves 4 to 5 people.