Chayote & Peanut Sprout Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

Peanut sprouts are a nutritional step up from plain peanuts: they contain resveratrol at concentrations reportedly up to 100 times higher than those in regular peanuts. Resveratrol is a plant compound linked to antioxidant activity, free-radical scavenging, and potential cardiovascular benefits. Paired with chayote — one of the more nutritionally complete gourds, prized in Cantonese cooking for its mild, sweet flavour and skin-nourishing properties — this is a simple soup that delivers a lot for a modest effort. Peanut sprouts are available at Chinese or Asian grocers, or online.

Method

1. Peel the chayote and cut into large chunks.
2. Rinse the peanut sprouts well.
3. Cut the lean pork into thick slices; briefly blanch in boiling water to remove impurities, then drain.
4. Place all ingredients into a pot with 2.4 L of water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a medium-low simmer for 1.5 hours.
6. Serve the soup and eat the cooked ingredients together.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is naturally sweet and delicious, suitable for all ages. It is particularly helpful for those with high cholesterol, high blood lipids, and those prone to colds. When buying peanut sprouts, choose ones with sturdy, healthy-looking sprouts — this generally indicates the base peanut is of good quality. Note: peanut sprouts are a moderate-purine food, so those with gout or high uric acid should keep portions small.