In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the belief is that certain foods and herbs can help balance the body's energy, or Qi, and promote overall health and well-being. One such food that has been renowned for its lung-nourishing and skin-beautifying properties is the Chinese Snow Fungus Pear Soup.
Snow fungus, also known as Tremella fuciformis, is a type of mushroom that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. It is believed to tonify the lungs, nourish the skin, and boost the immune system. Snow fungus is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great addition to any diet.
(Chinese) Pears are also a key ingredient in this soup, as they are known to help nourish the lungs and promote healthy skin. Pears are high in antioxidants and pectin, which can help improve digestion and promote radiant skin.
When combined together in a soup, snow fungus and pears create a delicious and nutritious dish that is not only good for your health but also tastes great. Here is a simple recipe for Chinese Snow Fungus Pear Soup:
Ingredients: (Can be adjusted depending on taste)
- 1 large or several small Chinese snow fungus, soaked in water until softened
- 2 pears, peeled and diced
- 20 dried goji berries
- 5-10 chinese red dates
- 1-1,5 Liters water
- Rock sugar or honey, to taste
- Dreid lotus seed (remove the seed/stem inside since this will make the soup more bitter)
- Dried longan (optional, adds sweetness)
Instructions:
- Soak the snow fungus in cold water for some minutes so it will be easier to cut the hard/center/stem part out (or if you buy the fungus without the hard center, just cut into desired pieces and set aside.)
- Soak the lotus seeds in warm water for 10 minutes and strain so it will be easier to remove the bitter stem inside the seed. Open and remove stem.
- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the snow fungus, pears, goji berries, lotus seeds and red dates.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes
- Then add the dried longan and let it all simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the soup is fragrant and the ingredients are tender.
- (the more you pre-soak the ingredients before, the less cooking time)
- Add rock sugar or honey to taste, stirring until dissolved.
- Serve hot and enjoy the nourishing benefits of this delicious soup. (Can also be enjoyed cold.)
In TCM, the lungs are closely associated with the skin. According to TCM principles, the lungs are responsible for dispersing Qi throughout the body and regulating the skin's moisture and luster. When the lungs are strong and healthy, the skin reflects this vitality with a healthy glow.
By consuming foods like the Chinese Snow Fungus Pear Soup, you can help support your lung health and promote radiant skin from the inside out. So next time you're looking for a nourishing and comforting soup, give this recipe a try and experience the amazing benefits for yourself.
