Fresh Yam, Goji, Euryale Seed & Chestnut Soup

Why people make this soup

Winter is when people reach for tonics, but Nourilo cautions that children shouldn’t be loaded with strong ones — ginseng, deer antler, bird’s nest, hashima and the like can carry hormones and easily cause “heatiness.” Far better are mild, food-and-medicine ingredients that gently strengthen the spleen and support the kidney. This soup fits the bill: fresh yam, in-season chestnuts, goji, euryale seeds and southern dates — moistening, easy, and suitable for children and adults who run hot alike. Fresh yam is available year-round at Chinese or Asian grocers and online.