Introduction: As the autumn breeze arrives and the weather gradually cools down, it is often said that “with each autumn rain comes a chill.” In this early autumn season, the air becomes drier and cooler, prompting our bodies to enter a period of adjustment. An old saying goes, “food supplements are better than medicinal supplements.” At this time of seasonal transition, those in the know have quietly replaced the “moisturizing remedy” on their dining tables, which not only helps to prevent autumn dryness and soothe the throat, but also quietly nourishes vital energy and blood, allowing one to radiate vitality from within. Today, let’s talk about this treasure ingredient for health in early autumn—white fungus and lotus seed soup—and the traditional Chinese medicinal wisdom and delicious recipes behind it.
1. Why is white fungus and lotus seed soup the top choice for moisturizing in early autumn?
During early autumn, the human body is easily invaded by dryness, resulting in symptoms such as dry throat, skin dryness, and constipation. White fungus and lotus seeds, the two gifts from nature, are excellent partners in combating autumn dryness.
White fungus: Known as “the commoner’s bird’s nest,” it has a neutral nature and a sweet taste, entering the lungs, stomach, and kidneys. “Compendium of Materia Medica” records that it “moistens the lungs and generates fluids, nourishes yin and strengthens the stomach,” effectively alleviating symptoms such as dry cough with little phlegm, dry throat, and thirst caused by autumn dryness. Modern medicine also confirms that white fungus is rich in glutinous protein and polysaccharides, which can enhance immunity and promote skin metabolism, making it a wonderful beauty product.
Lotus seed: It calms the heart and relieves irritability, strengthens the spleen and stops diarrhea, and benefits the kidneys. Although the lotus seed heart is bitter, it can clear the heart fire, making it effective for insomnia, vivid dreams, and irritability caused by excessive heart fire in autumn. Additionally, lotus seeds are rich in starch, protein, and various vitamins, making them an excellent choice for nourishing health in autumn.
2. The detailed recipe for white fungus and lotus seed soup, where deliciousness meets health
-White Fungus and Lotus Seed Soup-
Ingredients preparation:
1 piece of dried white fungus (about 20 grams), 50 grams of lotus seeds (removing the hearts is better), adequate rock sugar (adjust according to personal taste), a small amount of goji berries (for garnish), and enough water.
1 piece of dried white fungus (about 20 grams), 50 grams of lotus seeds (removing the hearts is better), adequate rock sugar (adjust according to personal taste), a small amount of goji berries (for garnish), and enough water.
Cooking steps:
Soak the white fungus: Place the dried white fungus in a large bowl, add enough cold water, and soak for about 2-3 hours until the white fungus fully expands and becomes soft and transparent. You can change the water 1-2 times during this process to remove impurities.
Process the lotus seeds: Soak the lotus seeds in clean water for 1 hour in advance. If they are not heartless, use a toothpick to gently remove the lotus seed hearts to avoid bitterness affecting the overall flavor.
Cleaning and preparation: Tear the soaked white fungus into smaller pieces, remove the yellow root parts, and rinse clean with fresh water; rinse the goji berries and set aside.
Stew the soup: Take a clay pot or soup pot, add enough clean water, and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat. First, add the white fungus and lotus seeds, and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the white fungus is soft and the lotus seeds are tender, add the rock sugar and continue to simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes until the rock sugar completely dissolves and the soup becomes thick.
Garnish for aroma: Finally, sprinkle in the rinsed goji berries and stir gently a few times before turning off the heat. The goji berries not only add color but also bring a light fruity fragrance, making the whole soup even more enticing.
Soak the white fungus: Place the dried white fungus in a large bowl, add enough cold water, and soak for about 2-3 hours until the white fungus fully expands and becomes soft and transparent. You can change the water 1-2 times during this process to remove impurities.
3. Why white fungus and lotus seeds…
