Hairy Gourd, Shiitake Mushroom, and Hyacinth Bean Soup

Why people make this soup

When the weather turns sweltering and you find yourself reaching for cold drinks and icy food more than you should, a bowl of this gentle, naturally sweet soup is a welcome reset for your digestive system. Hairy gourd — a young variety of winter melon — has a mild cooling quality without being harsh on the stomach, making it a better summer choice than very cold vegetables for people with a weaker constitution. The combination of mushrooms, legumes, and carrot keeps the broth nourishing rather than depleting, making it something the whole family can enjoy throughout the warmer months.