Fresh Chinese Yam, Snow Fungus, Water Chestnut and Pork Shin Soup

Why people make this soup

In Cantonese food-therapy thinking, a “yin-deficient” constitution is one that tends toward dryness and internal warmth. People in this category often notice dry mouth, restless sleep, a feeling of heat in the palms and soles, or skin and hair that feel parched. Rather than reaching for cooling medications, grandmothers across southern China have long simmered soups like this one — combining moistening vegetables and herbs to gently replenish what the body feels it is lacking. This soup is also lovely for anyone who simply wants something soothing and hydrating on a dry winter day.