Chrysanthemum & Wolfberry Agar Jelly Dessert Soup

Chrysanthemum & Wolfberry Agar Jelly Dessert Soup (Serves 3–4)

Ingredients

• 10–15 g dried chrysanthemum flowers
• 1–2 tbsp goji berries (wolfberries)
• 800 ml water
• 5–8 g agar agar powder (or 1 stick agar)
• 2–3 tbsp honey or rock sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Brew the Chrysanthemum Tea

• Rinse the dried chrysanthemum flowers quickly.
• Bring 800 ml of water to a boil.
• Add the chrysanthemum flowers and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes.
• Strain out the flowers, keeping the infused tea.

2. Add Sweetener

• While the tea is still hot, stir in honey or rock sugar.
• Mix until fully dissolved.

3. Dissolve Agar

• Sprinkle agar powder into the hot tea and stir well.
• Return to low heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly until fully dissolved.

4. Add Wolfberries

• Rinse the goji berries.
• Add them into the liquid mixture.

5. Set the Jelly

• Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or molds.
• Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until fully set.

6. Serve

• Cut the jelly into cubes or slices.
• Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert, or add a bit of extra chrysanthemum tea to make it a light dessert soup.

Tips

• For a stronger herbal flavor, steep chrysanthemum longer before straining.
• You can adjust sweetness depending on preference or use both honey and rock sugar for depth.
• Add a few red dates (jujubes) for extra sweetness and nourishment.

Effects/Benefits

Chrysanthemum flowers (菊花) – Traditionally used to clear heat and support eye health, with studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (e.g., Journal of Food Science & Nutrition, 2010).

Goji berries / wolfberries (枸杞子) – Rich in antioxidants like zeaxanthin, supporting eye health and immune function (e.g., Optometry & Vision Science, 2011).

Agar agar – A plant-based fiber that aids digestion and may help promote gut health and satiety (e.g., Nutrition Reviews, 2015).

Honey – Contains natural antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties that may soothe the throat and support immunity (e.g., Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 2011).

Rock sugar (冰糖) – Commonly used in TCM desserts to gently soothe the throat and provide quick energy, though mainly a simple carbohydrate with minimal micronutrients (e.g., general nutrition data, USDA FoodData Central).

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.