Winter Melon, Fresh Lotus Seed and Wild Duck Soup

Why people make this soup

Nourilo spotted cheap chilled teal (wild duck) at the supermarket and reached for the soup pot. Even farm-raised teal carries less fat than ordinary table duck, so the broth comes out clear and light rather than greasy. Paired with winter melon and fresh lotus seed, this soup is traditionally used to nourish yin, ease deficiency and gently promote urination — a comfortable pot for people who feel run-down, dry-mouthed or have a sluggish appetite.

Method

1. Clean the duck, then blanch it in boiling water and drain.
2. Wash the winter melon (leave the skin on) and cut into chunks.
3. Remove the heart from the fresh lotus seeds; soak the tangerine peel until soft.
4. Put everything in a pot with 2.4 L of water.
5. Simmer about 2 hours until reduced to 1.2–1.5 L. Drink the soup and eat the ingredients.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup suits people who feel depleted — dry mouth and throat, poor appetite, low spirits — and the whole family can enjoy it. If there is heart-fire restlessness, cook the whole lotus seeds with the bitter heart left in.