Soups
Kudzu, Adzuki Bean, Barley and Tangerine Peel Soup
Traditionally used to ease muscle tension and all-over body aches
Why people make this soup
A friend caught a mild bout with no fever or cough — just achy all over, the way a cold feels. Bro Niu suggested a kudzu soup, because kudzu root is traditionally associated with relaxing tight muscles and easing all-over aches, while also helping with the “surface-releasing” feel of an early cold. It is clear, sweet and gentle.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People with all-over body aches, tight neck and shoulder muscles from overwork, an early cold, dry throat, or mild post-viral discomfort. Mild enough for the family; a 3-year-old can have it.
- Coix seed (barley) is traditionally avoided in pregnancy — pregnant women can use black-eyed beans (mei dou) instead. With a fever or worsening symptoms, please see a doctor.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Kudzu root (fen ge): Traditionally associated with relaxing tight muscles, easing body aches, gently releasing the “surface” in early colds, and promoting fluids.
- Adzuki beans (chi xiao dou): Traditionally linked with draining damp and easing puffiness.
- Raw barley / coix (sheng yi mi): Traditionally associated with draining damp.
- Dried tangerine peel (chen pi): Traditionally associated with regulating qi and supporting the spleen.
Ingredients (3 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kudzu root (fen ge) | ~300 g (half a jin) | Peeled, washed, cubed; or ~75 g dried |
| Adzuki beans (chi xiao dou) | ~37.5 g (1 liang) | Soaked, rinsed |
| Raw barley (sheng yi mi) | ~37.5 g (1 liang) | Soaked, rinsed |
| Dried tangerine peel (chen pi) | 1 piece | Soaked, rinsed |
| Honey dates (mi zao) | 2 |
Method
- Peel, wash and cube the kudzu root.
- Soak and rinse the adzuki beans, barley and tangerine peel separately.
- Put everything in a pot with 7 bowls of water.
- Simmer about 1.5 hours, reducing to 3 bowls. Serve.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is clear and sweet, and is very helpful for overwork, tight uncomfortable neck and shoulder muscles, and an early cold. Note: pregnant women should not use barley (coix) — substitute black-eyed beans (mei dou).
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Kelly): If I have no fresh kudzu, what can I use? Bro Niu: Buy ge gen at a Chinese herb shop and use 2 liang — ge gen is simply dried kudzu.
- Q (Bella): With mild fever, cough (worse at night), a little runny nose, cold symptoms and all-over body aches, can I drink this kudzu soup? Bro Niu: Kudzu soup can release the “surface” and is very good for all-over aches; you can take 2–3 doses. Remember to drink plenty of warm water and rest.
- Q (fanny): For 6 people, how much of each ingredient? Can a 3-year-old drink it? Bro Niu: For 6 people use 1 jin of kudzu; no need to increase the rest. A 3-year-old can drink it.
Published July 17, 2023 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
