Solomon's Seal and Brain-Tonic Soup (Yu Zhu Yi Zhi Tang)

Why people make this soup

Children with attention difficulties often settle somewhat as they move through adolescence, but the journey there can be exhausting for the whole family. While food therapy is not a substitute for professional care, many parents in Chinese households use nourishing soups alongside other support to help calm a busy mind and build up a child’s vitality. This soup — combining Solomon’s seal with longan, goji berries, and red dates — is one such gentle recipe. It is thought to benefit children who seem scattered, pale, easily fatigued, or forgetful, and who struggle to settle. For a heartier version, a quail can be added to the pot: quail is known as the “animal ginseng” and is mild enough for virtually any constitution.

Method

1. Rinse all ingredients thoroughly.
2. Combine in a pot with 1.2 L of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until reduced to about 600 ml.
4. Drink the broth warm. The longan, goji berries, and dates can be eaten as well.

Nourilo’s Tips

If you would like to turn this into a proper family soup, add a whole quail (or two) to the pot. Quail is known in Chinese food therapy as the “animal ginseng” — it strengthens the five organ systems and is mild enough for people of any constitution, from young children to the elderly. If cooking for a family, simply double all the ingredient quantities.

If the child has a cold or cough, put this soup aside until they are fully recovered — it is not suitable during an active illness.