Tofu Skin Water Chestnut Sweet Soup

Why people make this sweet soup

People with a heat constitution often feel warm easily, have a flushed complexion, prefer cold drinks, and are prone to irritability, constipation, and a dry, bitter mouth. In Chinese food therapy, managing this constitution is largely a matter of choosing cooling, nourishing foods and avoiding fiery ones. This simple two-ingredient sweet soup — tofu skin and water chestnuts — is one of Nourilo’s go-to recommendations for this pattern. It is mild-tasting, gently cooling, and suitable for adults and children alike. Those with liver, lung, or stomach heat — feeling internal warmth, a hot nose, or an agitated mouth — may find this soup particularly soothing.

Method

1. Peel the water chestnuts, rinse clean, and cut into thick slices.
2. Rinse the fresh tofu skin or dried tofu rolls and tear or break into smaller pieces.
3. Combine all ingredients (except rock sugar) in a pot with 6 cups (approx. 1.5 litres) of water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Add rock sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup has a naturally clean, sweet flavour and is easy to enjoy. It is good for clearing heat accumulation in the stomach and intestines. For children with heat-related discomfort — such as dark urine or a general flushed feeling — you can add 37 g (38 g) of fresh Job’s tears (sheng yi mi) to the pot and simmer together for extra cooling support.