Soups
Hairy Gourd Maitake Goji Berry Partridge Soup
Traditionally used for summer nourishment, immune support, and replenishing vital energy
Why people make this soup
There is a well-known Cantonese saying: “yi gu ding jiu ji” — “one partridge is worth nine chickens.” Whether or not this is literally true nutritionally, partridge is genuinely impressive: it is high in protein, low in fat, and low in cholesterol compared with most poultry, and it is associated in Chinese food therapy with nourishing the lungs, nourishing qi, transforming phlegm and supporting the five vital organs. During summer, when heavy meat stews feel too rich, partridge makes an ideal base for a light but sustaining soup. Maitake mushroom (also known as “hen of the woods”) has been extensively studied for its beta-glucan content, which is associated with immune modulation, blood sugar support, and anti-tumour activity. Combined with the gentle cooling and replenishing effects of hairy gourd and the liver-nourishing, vision-supporting properties of goji berry, this is a summer soup that genuinely nourishes without weighing the body down.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for most people including the elderly, children, pregnant women (confirmed safe by Bro Niu for 4 months pregnant and beyond), and those managing blood sugar or immune conditions.
- Those recovering from respiratory illness can drink this soup after recovery.
- If partridge is unavailable, frozen French quail is a good substitute — quail is similarly prized in Chinese food therapy, sometimes called “animal ginseng.”
- This soup is suitable for diabetic patients as part of a balanced diet.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Hairy gourd (jie gua): A summer squash that is gentle on the stomach, mildly cooling, and associated with clearing summer heat, supporting digestion, and promoting beneficial qi (zheng qi). It is particularly well-suited for hot-weather cooking.
- Maitake mushroom (wu mao gu / Grifola frondosa): Contains high levels of beta-glucans and polysaccharides. Modern research has explored its effects on immune function, blood sugar regulation, blood pressure support, and anti-tumour activity. In Chinese food therapy, it is associated with strengthening zheng qi (the body’s positive vital energy) and supporting the liver.
- Goji berries (gou qi zi): Rich in carotenoids, particularly zeaxanthin, and polysaccharides. Traditionally associated with nourishing the liver and kidneys and brightening vision — effects that are increasingly supported by modern nutritional research.
- Partridge (zhe gu): High in protein and low in fat. Traditionally associated with nourishing yin and the lungs, benefiting qi, and clearing phlegm. The meat remains tender and flavourful after simmering.
- Fresh ginger: Warming; supports digestion and helps balance the cooling nature of the gourd.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hairy gourd (jie gua) | 1 medium | Scraped, peeled and cut into chunks |
| Maitake mushroom (wu mao gu) | ~18 g (5 qian) | Soaked and rinsed |
| Goji berries (gou qi zi) | ~11 g (3 qian) | Soaked and rinsed |
| Fresh ginger | 2 slices | |
| Partridge (zhe gu) | 1 whole | Cleaned and blanched |
| Water | 7 bowls (~1.75 L) |
Method
- Peel (scrape) the hairy gourd and cut into chunks.
- Soak and rinse the maitake mushroom and goji berries.
- Clean the partridge thoroughly; blanch in boiling water briefly to remove any impurities. Drain.
- Place all ingredients into a pot with 7 bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a medium simmer, and cook for 1 hour until about 4 bowls remain.
- Serve warm. The whole family can enjoy this soup, and the meat is pleasant to eat.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is naturally sweet and fresh-tasting — the whole family will enjoy it. If you cannot find partridge, frozen French quail (法国鹌鹑) is an excellent substitute, available at Chinese grocery stores and Asian food suppliers. Quail is similarly prized in food therapy and is sometimes called “moving ginseng” for its dense nourishment in a small package. The soup is also suitable for cancer patients — maitake mushroom and goji berries are both associated with supporting immune function, and 姬松茸 (agaricus blazei) can be used as an alternative mushroom if maitake is unavailable.
Community questions answered (selected)
-
Q (Lai Chi): Can I substitute with agaricus blazei (ji song rong /姬松茸)? Bro Niu: Yes, agaricus blazei can be used as a substitute.
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Q (Grace): Can I drink this soup after recovering from bronchitis? Bro Niu: Yes, once you have recovered from bronchitis this soup is fine to drink.
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Q (碧琪): I am 4 months pregnant — can I drink this partridge and hairy gourd soup? Bro Niu: This soup is safe for pregnant women at 4 months. No problem.
Published July 19, 2019 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 4 min read.
