Fresh Tu Fu Ling, Red Bean and Hyacinth Bean Soup

Why people make this soup

Itchy skin can flare in two opposite kinds of weather — dry spells, and warm damp ones. Nourilo notes that older people in particular get persistent springtime itch, and that stress can make it worse. This soup is traditionally used to clear heat, resolve toxins, strengthen the spleen and drain damp, and is associated with easing the itchy skin that comes with a “dry-blood” or “damp-heat” picture. It’s a gentle, family-friendly bowl, especially welcome in muggy, foggy weather.

Method

1. Rinse all ingredients.
2. Put them in a pot with 2.4 L of water.
3. Simmer about 2 hours down to 1.2 L, then serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

Fresh smilax root is available at Chinese or Asian grocers, or online — ask the seller to peel it and slice it thin so it gives up its flavor more easily. (Fresh smilax oxidizes very quickly, but it’s still fine to use once it has darkened.) This soup suits damp, foggy weather best, is fine for young and old, and is associated with helping prevent boils.