Soups
Dried Oyster, Black Moss and Flower Shiitake Pork Rib Soup
Traditionally used to support the body through menopause
Why people make this soup
Year-end is when oysters are at their best, and the dried golden oysters from this season carry the most glycogen — which is part of why this old Cantonese favourite is so prized. Dried oysters are unusually rich in calcium, selenium and zinc, and are traditionally regarded as one of the best nourishing foods for both men and women going through menopause. Simmered with black moss, soybeans, flower shiitake and pork ribs, the broth is deep and savoury.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Men and women navigating menopause; anyone wanting a mineral-rich, nourishing soup. Suitable for young and old, and traditionally said to support pregnancy too.
- Black moss should be from a reputable source. As with any rich soup, enjoy in moderation.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Dried golden oysters (jin hao): Rich in trace minerals; traditionally used to nourish the body and support those in menopause, including for night sweats and restlessness.
- Black moss (fa cai): A traditional Cantonese soup ingredient added near the end of cooking.
- Flower shiitake (hua gu): Fragrant mushroom traditionally valued for supporting immunity.
- Soybeans (huang dou): Add protein and body to the broth.
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dried golden oysters | 4–5 | Or 75–110 g smaller dried oysters |
| Black moss (fa cai) | 1 small pinch | Add near the end |
| Flower shiitake | 4 | Stems removed |
| Soybeans | ~37 g | Rinse and soak |
| Fresh ginger | 3 slices | |
| Pork ribs | ~300 g | Blanched |
| Water | 8 bowls | Reduced to 4 |
Method
- Separately rinse and soak the dried oysters, black moss, flower shiitake and soybeans; trim the mushroom stems. Blanch the pork ribs.
- Add all ingredients except the black moss to 8 bowls of water and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add the black moss and simmer another 15 minutes until reduced to about 4 bowls. Serve the soup together with the ingredients.
Bro Niu’s tips
The photo uses locally dried golden oysters, which are very fragrant; ordinary smaller dried oysters work too — use about 75–110 g. The soup suits young and old, and is traditionally said to support a developing baby during pregnancy.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Elaine S): I’m 47 and my periods have become irregular. Besides Chinese medicine, what can I eat or do so I don’t age too fast as menopause approaches? Bro Niu: Whether periods stop relates to hormones, but keeping the body healthy means menopause can pass smoothly — mine did, with no discomfort. Stay cheerful. You can regularly make soups with snow fungus, lily bulb, lotus seed, Chinese yam, poria and red dates.
- Q (Kan, 54): With menopause my periods are on and off, and lately I get severe hot flushes and wake at night with a dry mouth. Any food therapy? Bro Niu: Try astragalus 3 qian, ye jiao teng (fleeceflower stem) 5 qian, floating wheat 5 qian, honey-fried liquorice 2 qian and 6 red dates in 5 bowls of water, reduced to 2; three doses, and if it helps, rest two days then repeat. It is very helpful for hot flushes and night sweats.
Published November 23, 2024 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
