Lotus Seed & Red Date Sweet Soup Dessert

Lotus Seed & Red Date Sweet Soup Dessert (莲子红枣汤)

Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–60 minutes

Ingredients

• ¾ cup dried lotus seeds (莲子), rinsed and cores removed if bitter
• 6 cups water
• 6–8 red Chinese dates (红枣), pitted
• 1–2 tablespoons goji berries (枸杞子), rinsed
• 1–2 teaspoons organic sugar (adjust to taste)

Optional TCM Additions (for enhanced benefits)

• 1 tablespoon dried longan (龙眼肉) – for added sweetness and calming effect
• 10–15 dried lily bulbs (百合) – for lung support and gentle hydration
• 1 small piece dried tangerine peel (陈皮) – for digestion and aroma

Instructions

1. Prepare Lotus Seeds:
   Rinse the lotus seeds thoroughly. If they contain a bitter green core, remove it.
2. Boil Base:
   Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Add the lotus seeds and red dates.
3. Simmer:
   Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30–40 minutes, until lotus seeds are soft and tender.
4. Add Final Ingredients:
   Add goji berries and any optional herbs. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes.
5. Sweeten & Serve:
   Stir in sugar to taste. Serve warm for comfort or chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Tips

• For a richer texture, simmer longer until the lotus seeds become slightly creamy.
• This soup is mild and slightly sweet—perfect as a light dessert or nourishing tonic.

Effects/Benefits

Lotus seeds (莲子): Helps support digestion, calm the mind, and nourish the spleen and kidneys.

Red Chinese dates (红枣): Boosts energy, supports blood health, and gently strengthens the immune system.

Goji berries (枸杞子): Supports eye health, nourishes the liver and kidneys, and provides antioxidants.

Organic sugar: Adds gentle sweetness and quick energy while balancing the flavors.

Optional Ingredients

Dried longan (龙眼肉): Helps calm the mind, improve sleep, and nourish blood circulation.

Dried lily bulbs (百合): Supports lung health, hydration, and helps ease dryness and restlessness.

Dried tangerine peel (陈皮): Aids digestion, reduces bloating, and enhances overall flavor balance.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy is a complementary approach and should not replace professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Individual responses to herbs and foods may vary.