Soups
Solomon's Seal, Fig, Conpoy, and Green Radish Soup
traditionally used to nourish yin, clear liver heat, and soothe a dry throat
Why people make this soup
When the weather turns dry, or when anxiety and disturbed sleep have left the body feeling internally overheated — with a scratchy throat, coughing, or mouth ulcers — traditional Chinese food therapy calls for ingredients that nourish yin and gently clear internal heat. This soup is Bro Niu’s go-to for those moments. The combination of Solomon’s seal, figs, apricot kernels, and green radish creates a broth that is pleasantly sweet, not cold or harsh, and suitable for the whole family. Green radish is also notably richer in vitamin C than white daikon and has a traditional reputation for clearing liver heat and preventing the throat and tongue from drying out.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for the whole family — not cold or drying in nature; old and young alike may drink it
- Suitable during menstruation and for pregnant women
- Children with runny nose can drink this soup — add a piece of dried tangerine peel if nasal discharge is heavy
- Those who cannot find green radish overseas may substitute snow pear or water chestnut (ma ti)
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Solomon’s seal (yu zhu): A gentle yin-nourishing herb; traditionally associated with moistening the lungs, clearing heat, and alleviating dry throat and skin — without causing internal dryness
- Dried figs (wu hua guo): Naturally sweet; traditionally used to nourish the digestive system, support the lungs, and moisten dryness
- Mixed apricot kernels (nan bei xing): The southern (sweet) variety moistens and supports the lungs; the northern (slightly bitter) variety calms coughing; combined, they are a classic lung-support pair
- Conpoy / dried scallop (yao zhu): A rich umami ingredient that adds savouriness and depth; traditionally associated with nourishing yin and supporting kidney function — it makes this soup more satisfying and flavourful
- Green radish (qing luo bo): Contains more vitamin C than white daikon; traditionally associated with clearing liver heat, supporting digestion, and hydrating the throat. Also contains an enzyme that helps neutralise nitrosamines. Interestingly, it is also traditionally used for clearing gas buildup in the home from gas cooking
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solomon’s seal (yu zhu) | 5 qian (~19 g) | Rinse and soak briefly |
| Dried figs | 4–5 pieces | Split in half |
| Mixed apricot kernels (nan + bei xing) | 1 liang (~37 g) | Rinse; southern:northern approx. 7:3 |
| Dried scallop / conpoy | 4–5 pieces | Soaked until soft |
| Green radish | 1 medium | Peeled and cut into chunks |
| Water | 8 bowls (approx. 2 litres) |
Method
- Rinse and briefly soak the Solomon’s seal.
- Split the dried figs in half.
- Soak the conpoy in a little water until soft; reserve the soaking liquid to add to the pot for extra flavour.
- Peel the green radish and cut into chunks.
- Place all ingredients (including conpoy soaking liquid) in a pot with 8 bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a medium-low simmer.
- Cook for about 1.5 hours until the liquid reduces to approximately 4 bowls.
- Serve warm, eating both the broth and the solids.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is neither cold nor drying — it is well balanced and can be made regularly. Green radish contains an enzyme that helps break down harmful nitrosamines, which is a bonus for anyone who cooks frequently with gas. If you cannot find green radish where you live, snow pear or water chestnut are good substitutes. For extra savoury flavour, dried oysters and dried tangerine peel (chen shen) can be added. If you prefer a meatier soup, lean pork or pork rib can be included.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (吴太): I am overseas and cannot find green radish. What can I substitute? Bro Niu: You can use snow pear or water chestnut (ma ti) as a substitute.
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Q (Amy): Can a pregnant woman of about two months drink this soup? Bro Niu: Yes, this soup is suitable for pregnant women.
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Q (reader, fanny): For the mixed apricot kernels — how much should be southern and how much northern? Bro Niu: The general ratio is about 7 parts southern apricot to 3 parts northern. Northern apricot kernels help calm coughs and ease breathlessness but should not be used in large quantities as they may be mildly toxic in excess. That is why the northern variety is always used in smaller amounts.
Published March 4, 2022 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 4 min read.
