Snow Pear, North and South Almond, and Tangerine Cake Soup

Why people make this soup

Early winter is described in Chinese wellness as “fire returning to the organs” — a time when the lungs and stomach are most vulnerable to dryness. If your diet has been a little too spicy or rich, or if the cold, dry air has simply gotten to you, you might notice a dry, scratchy throat, a persistent tickle that makes you want to clear your throat, or the odd dry cough without feeling sick. This is typically a lung-dryness pattern rather than an infection. Snow pear is one of the most valued ingredients in Cantonese food therapy for exactly this — it is gently cooling, produces fluids, and traditionally soothes the lungs and stomach. Paired with almonds and tangerine cake, this is a simple, pleasant drink for the whole family during the dry months.

Method

1. Wash the snow pears thoroughly in lightly salted water to remove pesticide residue. Keep the skin on — the peel contains phlegm-dissolving compounds. Core and cut into chunks.
2. Rinse the almonds briefly. Cut the tangerine cake into chunks.
3. Combine all ingredients in a pot with 1.8–2.1 L of water.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook for 30 minutes until the liquid reduces to about 1.2 L.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature. Drink freely; this can be used as a tea throughout the day.

Nourilo’s Tips

The pear peel is worth keeping — it contains active compounds for phlegm and cough, so do not discard it. Just make sure to soak the pears in salt water first to reduce pesticide residue. This drink is very gentle and safe for the whole family, including young children (from about 18 months). It is also beneficial for those with bronchitis and lung-heat coughs, and can be taken regularly through the season. If you want to make it with dried pear instead of fresh, use about 10–12 slices, cored.