Chestnut, Yam, and Lotus Seed Pork Rib Soup
Sweet, comforting, and great for digestion!
As the weather cools, my appetite becomes fussier. A friend recently visited, complaining of an upset stomach, so I decided to make my mom’s Chestnut, Yam, and Lotus Seed Pork Rib Soup—a gentle yet nourishing remedy perfect for seasonal transitions.
That evening, I slowly simmered a pot. The moment I lifted the lid, the aroma filled the kitchen—savory ribs, sweet chestnuts, and melt-in-your-mouth yam. My friend had two bowls and joked, “This soup works better than medicine!” And it’s true—a good bowl of soup warms not just the body but also the soul.
If you often feel bloated or have a weak digestive system, this recipe is for you.
🔍 Ingredient Breakdown
This soup combines spleen-nourishing, stomach-friendly ingredients:
Pork ribs: Provide protein and calcium for a rich broth.
Yam: Contains mucilage to protect the stomach lining.
Chestnuts: Sweet and nutty, they strengthen the spleen and kidneys.
Lotus seeds & Fox nut seeds (Qianshi): Traditional remedies for poor digestion.
Poria cocos (Fuling): Helps with water retention and bloating.
Red dates & Goji berries: Boost blood circulation and immunity.
This blend is gentle yet effective, ideal for those with weak digestion, fatigue, or irregular eating habits.
🍽️Serving Suggestions
Enjoy a bowl before lunch or dinner to stimulate appetite. For best results, drink it for 2-3 consecutive days. Pair with light dishes like steamed fish or stir-fried greens. In autumn/winter, make it 1-2 times weekly for long-term benefits. Pregnant women or those with heaty constitutions can reduce red dates and goji berries.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
First, the flavor is irresistible—savory ribs, sweet chestnuts, and creamy yam create a deeply satisfying broth. Second, its health benefits are tangible; if you often feel bloated or fatigued after meals, just 1-2 servings can make a difference. Lastly, it’s easy and fuss-free—just toss everything into a pot and let it simmer.
To me, this soup is more than food—it’s a warm hug for your gut and heart. In our busy lives, taking time to cook a healing broth is a gift to yourself.
🥗RECIPE🥗
🥬Ingredients list
400g pork ribs
200g yam
150g chestnuts
20g lotus seeds
15g fox nut seeds (qianshi)
10g poria cocos (fuling)
5 red dates
10g goji berries
Salt, to taste
👩🍳DIRECTIONS
1️⃣ Prep herbs: Rinse poria, lotus seeds, and qianshi; soak for 30 mins.
2️⃣ Blanch ribs: Boil ribs in cold water, skim foam, then rinse.
3️⃣ Prep ingredients: Peel and chop yam (soak in water to prevent browning), shell chestnuts, deseed dates.
4️⃣ Simmer: Add all ingredients (except goji berries) to a pot with 1.5L water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 1 hour.
5️⃣ Season: Add goji berries and salt, let it steep for 10 mins.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a rice cooker?
✅ Yes, but use the “soup” setting and extend cooking time to 1.5 hours.
Q2: Will the yam dissolve if overcooked?
⚠️ Yes. If you prefer firmer yam, add it in the last 30 minutes.
Q3: Is it safe for pregnancy?
✅ Generally yes, but consult a doctor due to poria’s diuretic effect.
