Cicada Fungus Flower, Ruiren Nut, Goji Berry and Carrot Pork Soup

Why people make this soup

Cicada fungus flower (jin chan hua) is a parasitic fungus that grows on cicadas, in the same biological family as the much more famous cordyceps. Research from Chinese and Hong Kong universities has noted a close genetic similarity between the two fungi; before this publicity pushed prices up, cicada fungus was relatively affordable at around 20–30 HKD per liang. Nourilo recommends making the most of it while it stays accessible. In traditional Chinese medicine it is associated with dispersing wind-heat, calming children’s fevers, brightening the eyes, and modulating immune function. Paired with ruiren nut (a traditional herb for nourishing the liver and eyes), goji berries (a classic liver-kidney tonic) and the beta-carotene richness of carrot, this soup has a mild herbal note and is easy to drink — suitable for everyone from children to the elderly, and a thoughtful choice for anyone spending long hours looking at screens.

Method

1. Soak the cicada fungus flower in cold water for several minutes, swirling gently to dislodge sand and grit. Drain and rinse again — this step is important as the fungus grows in soil.
2. Rinse the ruiren nut and goji berries.
3. Peel the carrot and cut into chunks.
4. Blanch the lean pork in boiling water for 1–2 minutes; drain and rinse.
5. Combine all ingredients in a pot with 2.1 L of water.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 1.5 hours.
7. Season lightly with salt and serve. Drink the soup and eat the pork and carrot.

Nourilo’s Tips

• The soup has a mild herbal note that is easy to get used to — Nourilo describes it as easy to drink. Children who need eye support should be fine with it.
• If your child has poor vision, Nourilo suggests 2 servings per week for a month.
• Adding pearl mother (zhen zhu mu) to this soup is also compatible — it can help with calming and supporting sleep.
• When buying cicada fungus flower, avoid any that look flat and shrivelled, have a soft or damp texture, or smell musty. Buy from a reputable Chinese herb shop.