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Huai Shan, Goji, Sea Cucumber & Dried Scallop Pork Shin Soup

Traditionally used to nourish kidney essence and support vitality

By · Registered Nutritionist & TCM Practitioner

Prep
20 min
Cook
2 hr
Total
2 hr 20 min
Makes
0.9–1.2 L
Digestive WellnessChildren's WellnessLiver WellnessKidney & Urinary WellnessEnergy & VitalityEveryday Balance
Huai Shan, Goji, Sea Cucumber & Dried Scallop Pork Shin Soup

Why people make this soup

Sea cucumber — prized in Chinese cuisine for centuries — is one of those rare ingredients that traditional food therapy considers beneficial for nearly everyone. It is high in protein, low in fat, and very low in cholesterol. What makes it particularly special in Chinese wellness thinking is the idea that it nourishes both yin and yang simultaneously — meaning it is warming enough for those who tend to feel cold, yet moistening enough for those who run hot. Nourilo pairs it with dried scallops for a savory depth, Chinese yam to ease digestion, and goji berries and red dates for gentle blood support. Together they create a rich, golden soup that feels genuinely restorative.

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Frequently asked questions

What is sea cucumber traditionally used for in this soup?

In Chinese food therapy, sea cucumber is traditionally considered beneficial for nourishing kidney essence and supporting vitality. It is also traditionally associated with supporting smooth, elastic skin, and may benefit those concerned about bone density, as part of a balanced diet.

How long does this soup take to prepare and cook?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and the soup simmers for approximately 2 hours, for a total time of around 2 hours 20 minutes. Note that the dried sea cucumber must be soaked overnight in cold water beforehand, so plan ahead.

How much soup does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately 0.9 to 1.2 litres of soup.

Is this soup suitable for people with sluggish digestion?

Sea cucumber is slightly rich and can feel heavy if digestion is sluggish. Those with a thick white tongue coating — a sign of dampness in Chinese medicine — are advised to have a few lighter spleen-tonifying soups first, then start with just a small amount of sea cucumber in this recipe.

What role does Chinese yam play in this recipe?

Chinese yam is included in this soup to help ease digestion, complementing the richer ingredients such as sea cucumber and dried scallops.

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