Soups
Lotus Root, Chestnut, Fig and Dried Scallop Soup
Traditionally taken to strengthen bones and support the cardiovascular system
Why people make this soup
On a still-chilly day Bro Niu picks warming, cold-dispelling ingredients at the market. He found chestnuts big and cheap, took some home, and paired them with lotus root for a soup. Chestnuts carry plenty of minerals — magnesium in particular is traditionally linked to bone health — while lotus root brings potassium and calcium. Add fig (for the throat and digestion) and dried scallop (nourishing and savoury), and you get a fresh, delicious soup associated with strong bones and a healthy heart.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suits people wanting to support their bones, guard against osteoporosis, and look after the cardiovascular system. Welcomed by all ages.
- People with reduced kidney function clear potassium poorly, and these ingredients are high in potassium — they should not drink much of this soup.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Chestnut (li zi): rich in vitamins and minerals; the magnesium content is traditionally associated with maintaining bone health.
- Lotus root (lian ou): a source of potassium and calcium; potassium is associated with relaxing muscles and supporting the heart and blood vessels.
- Fig (wu hua guo): classically used to soothe the throat and aid digestion.
- Dried scallop (yao zhu): nourishing, savoury, and traditionally said to support the kidneys.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lotus root | 1 section | Peeled, cut into chunks |
| Chestnuts | ~113 g | Shelled and skinned |
| Dried figs | 5 | Rinsed |
| Dried scallops | 4 | Soaked until soft |
| Fresh ginger | 2 slices |
Method
- Peel the lotus root and cut into chunks. Shell and skin the chestnuts. Rinse the figs. Soak the scallops until soft.
- Put everything in a pot with 9 bowls of water and simmer for 2 hours until reduced to about 4 bowls. Eat both soup and ingredients.
Bro Niu’s tips
Drunk regularly, this tasty soup is traditionally associated with supporting bones and cardiovascular health, and suits all ages. But people with reduced kidney function clear potassium poorly, and these ingredients are high in potassium, so they should not drink much.
Published January 25, 2024 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
