Classic Chinese Almond Dessert Soup

Classic Chinese Almond Dessert Soup

Soaking Time: 8–12 hours
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–30 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup peeled sweet apricot kernels
• 10–12 peeled bitter apricot kernels
• 2 tablespoons uncooked white rice
• 1/4 cup rock sugar (adjust to taste)
• 6 cups water, plus extra as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the kernels (if unpeeled):
   If your apricot kernels still have skins, briefly boil them for about 30 seconds, then transfer to cold water. Gently rub to remove the skins.
2. Soak overnight:
   Place the sweet kernels, bitter kernels, and rice in a bowl. Cover with water and let soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
3. Rinse and blend:
   Drain and rinse the soaked ingredients. Transfer to a blender or food processor and blend, gradually adding about 1 cup of water until a smooth, milky mixture forms.
4. Cook the soup base:
   Bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Pour in the blended mixture, stirring well to combine.
5. Simmer:
   Reduce heat and let simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Strain (optional):
   For a smoother texture, allow the mixture to cool slightly, then strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Return the liquid to the pot.
7. Sweeten:
   Add rock sugar and stir over low heat until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
8. Adjust consistency:
   For a dessert soup: simmer a bit longer until slightly thickened.
   For almond tea: add a little water to thin it to a drinkable consistency.
9. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls for dessert soup or pour into cups for almond tea. Serve warm.

Effects/Benefits

Sweet apricot kernels (南杏仁): Gently nourish the lungs, moisten dryness, and support smooth breathing.

Bitter apricot kernels (北杏仁): Help descend lung qi, relieve cough, and ease phlegm.

Rice: Strengthens the spleen, supports digestion, and helps harmonize the formula.

Rock sugar: Moistens the lungs, soothes the throat, and adds gentle cooling sweetness.

Water: Hydrates the body and helps deliver the nourishing properties of the ingredients.

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.