Soups
Schisandra, Candied Pomelo Peel and Red Date Soup
Traditionally used to nourish the liver and ease side-rib discomfort
Why people make this soup
Bro Niu first met candied pomelo peel as a gift from a friend, snacked on the diced pieces, and soon found it made a lovely soup base too. Paired with schisandra berries and red dates, it becomes a soothing double-boiled tonic. People traditionally turn to it for chronic liver weakness with that nagging, dull ache under the ribs, plus dizziness and tired eyes.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People with a tired, “dry” liver constitution who feel dull side-rib discomfort, dizziness, or tend toward nervous exhaustion and a stuck, restless liver-qi feeling.
- Schisandra is quite sour and warming; if you run hot or feel a burning sensation in the chest, balance it with a little dang shen and Chinese yam (see tips). Anyone with a diagnosed liver condition should have liver enzymes checked first — please see a doctor.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Schisandra (wu wei zi): A classic “five-flavor” berry traditionally associated with calming the spirit, easing chronic coughs and sweating, and supporting the liver.
- Candied pomelo peel (mi jian you pi): Adds a fragrant, slightly bitter-sweet note traditionally used to move stuck qi and comfort the chest.
- Red dates (hong zao): Warm and sweet, traditionally used to nourish the blood and harmonize the other ingredients.
Ingredients (1 pot)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Schisandra berries (wu wei zi) | ~3 qian (~12 g) | Lightly crush for stronger effect |
| Red dates (hong zao) | 10 | Pitted |
| Candied pomelo peel (mi jian you pi) | ~1 liang (~38 g) | Can substitute 1 candied tangerine cake |
| Rock sugar (bing tang) | to taste | Skip if using candied tangerine cake |
Method
- Rinse all ingredients and place in a double-boiling jar (stewing pot).
- Pour in 3 bowls of boiling water.
- Double-boil for about 2 hours, then serve warm.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is also welcomed by those who feel nervous exhaustion or a stuck, restless liver-qi. If you cannot find candied pomelo peel, one candied tangerine cake works as a substitute. Lightly crushing the schisandra berries before cooking brings out more of their effect.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (reader): How many grams is 1 qian? Bro Niu: About 4 grams.
- Q (Tom): Can I simmer this on the stove instead of double-boiling? Bro Niu: Yes, you can simmer it. If you crush the schisandra a little first, the effect is even better.
- Q (Miss Tse): If I use a candied tangerine cake, do I still add rock sugar? And can I always add yam and poria to schisandra recipes? Bro Niu: With the candied tangerine cake you don’t need extra rock sugar. Yes, you can add Chinese yam and poria.
Published July 4, 2010 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
