Peach Gum & Saponin Rice Dessert Soup
Peach Gum & Saponin Rice Dessert Soup (4 servings)
Prep Time
10 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
Cook Time
45–60 minutes
Ingredients
- 20 g peach gum (tao jiao)
- 20 g saponin rice (snow lotus seeds / zao jiao mi)
- 10 g snow swallow (tragacanth gum)
- 8–10 dried red dates (jujube)
- 4–5 cups water
- Rock sugar, to taste (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Ingredients (Very Important)
- Do this the night before:
- Soak peach gum in plenty of water for 12–24 hours until fully expanded.
- Remove any dark impurities and rinse well.
- Soak saponin rice for 12–24 hours until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Soak snow swallow separately for 12 hours until it expands into a jelly-like texture.
- Gently rinse and remove impurities.
Step 2: Prepare the Red Dates
- Rinse the red dates thoroughly.
- Optional: Slice them open and remove pits for a cleaner flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
In a pot, add:
- Soaked peach gum
- Saponin rice
- Red dates
- 4–5 cups of water
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat.
- Simmer for 30–40 minutes, until everything becomes soft and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Snow Swallow
Add the soaked snow swallow in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.
(It cooks quickly and should not be overcooked.)
Step 5: Sweeten & Serve
- Add rock sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
- Serve warm, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing cold dessert.
Tips for Best Results
- Texture balance: Peach gum = chewy, saponin rice = slightly crisp-jelly, snow swallow = silky.
- Do not rush soaking — this is key to achieving the signature luxurious texture.
- You can add goji berries in the last 5 minutes for color and mild sweetness.
Optional Variations
- Add snow pear for extra hydration and sweetness
- Add lotus seeds for a more nourishing version
- Add a splash of coconut milk for a richer dessert twist
Effects/Benefits
Peach Gum (Tao Jiao): Traditionally used to nourish yin, support skin hydration, and promote digestive health due to its natural plant collagen-like polysaccharides (Zhang et al., Food Hydrocolloids, 2019).
Saponin Rice (Snow Lotus Seeds / Zao Jiao Mi): Known for supporting digestion, reducing internal dryness, and promoting circulation, with natural plant saponins that may have anti-inflammatory effects (Liu et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2014).
Snow Swallow (Tragacanth Gum): Valued for moisturizing the lungs and skin while aiding gut health due to its high soluble fiber content (Phillips & Williams, Handbook of Hydrocolloids, 2009).
Red Dates (Jujube): Commonly used to tonify qi and blood, support immune function, and improve sleep, supported by studies on their antioxidant and calming compounds (Gao et al., Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2013).
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.