Water Chestnut, Snow Pear & White Fungus Soup

Chinese Water Chestnut, Snow Pear & White Fungus Soup

Introduction

Water Chestnut, Snow Pear & White Fungus Soup  is a traditional Chinese dessert soup known for its cooling, moisturizing, and nourishing properties. It is especially popular in southern China during dry seasons to soothe the throat, promote clear skin, and relieve internal heat. The natural sweetness of snow pears combines beautifully with the soft, jelly-like texture of white fungus and the refreshing crunch of water chestnuts.

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Ingredients

• White fungus (snow fungus / Tremella) – 1 piece

• Snow pears – 2 (medium-sized, ripe)

• Fresh water chestnuts – 6–8 pieces

• Dried goji berries (optional) – 1 tablespoon

• Rock sugar – 40–50 grams (adjust to taste)

• Water – about 1.5 liters

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Soak the white fungus

1. Rinse the dried white fungus under cold water.

2. Soak it in warm water for about 30 minutes until it becomes soft and fully expanded.

3. Remove the hard yellow stem part at the base and tear the fungus into small bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the other ingredients

1. Peel the snow pears, remove the cores, and cut them into chunks.

2. Peel the water chestnuts and cut them into thick slices.

3. Rinse the goji berries briefly under cold water if you plan to use them.

Step 3: Start the soup base

1. In a large pot, add about 1.5 liters of water and bring it to a boil.

2. Add the white fungus and simmer on medium heat for about 30 minutes until the fungus turns soft and slightly transparent.

Step 4: Add fruits and sweeteners

1. Add the snow pears and water chestnuts to the pot.

2. Continue simmering for another 20–25 minutes until all ingredients are tender.

3. Stir in rock sugar and let it dissolve completely.

4. Add goji berries in the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve their color and nutrients.

Step 5: Serve

1. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool slightly.

2. You can serve it warm in cooler weather or chilled in summer for a refreshing drink.

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Tips

• For a richer flavor, you can add a few dried red dates or lotus seeds.

• The longer you simmer the white fungus, the more gelatinous and smooth the soup becomes.

• Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by increasing or reducing the rock sugar.

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Health Benefits

This soup is believed in traditional Chinese medicine to:

• Moisturize the lungs and throat

• Relieve dryness

• Cool internal heat

• Improve skin complexion

It’s a light, nutritious, and naturally sweet dessert that’s suitable for all ages.