Chinese Red Bean & Job’s Tears Dessert Soup Recipe: Natural Detox & Weight Loss Soup

Chinese Red Bean & Job’s Tears Dessert Soup Recipe (4–6 servings)

(薏仁红豆糖水 with 陈皮)

Ingredients

• ½ cup red beans (adzuki beans)
• ½ cup red Job’s Tears (Coix seeds / Yi Ren)
• 1 small piece dried tangerine peel (陈皮)
• 60–80 g rock sugar (adjust to taste)
• 6–8 cups water

Instructions

1. Soak the ingredients

• Rinse the red beans and Job’s Tears thoroughly.
• Soak them in water for 4–6 hours (or overnight for best texture).

2. Prepare the tangerine peel

• Rinse the dried tangerine peel.
• Soak it in warm water for 10–15 minutes, then gently scrape off any bitter white pith if thick.

3. Start cooking

• Add soaked beans, Job’s Tears, and tangerine peel into a pot.
• Pour in 6–8 cups of fresh water.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Simmer

• Once boiling, reduce to low heat.
• Simmer for 60–90 minutes, until:
• Red beans are soft and slightly broken
• Job’s Tears are tender and creamy

5. Sweeten

• Add rock sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
• Simmer for another 5–10 minutes.

6. Serve

Serve warm or chilled, depending on preference.

Tips

• For a smoother texture, cook longer or lightly mash some beans.
• In summer, chill the soup for a refreshing cooling dessert.
• In TCM, this soup is often enjoyed for helping reduce dampness and supporting digestion.

Effects/Benefits

Red Beans (Adzuki Beans) – In TCM, help drain dampness and support heart health; nutritionally high in fiber and antioxidants that support digestion and cardiovascular health.

Red Job’s Tears (Coix Seeds / Yi Ren) – Traditionally used to promote urination and reduce dampness; modern studies show anti-inflammatory effects and support for metabolism and skin health.

Dried Tangerine Peel (Chenpi) – Regulates qi, improves digestion, and reduces bloating in TCM; contains flavonoids that may aid gut health and have antioxidant properties.

Rock Sugar – In TCM, helps harmonize flavors and soothe the throat; nutritionally it provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content.

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.