Lingzhi Lean Pork Soup - Chinese Herbal Recipes, for centuries Lingzhi 靈芝 a kind of mushroom, was regarded by the Chinese as the "king of herbs" for its excellent effect in improving overall health, enhancing stamina and promoting longevity. It is promoted as an immune system booster, a blood pressure stabilizer and an antioxidant. Combined with red dates ( hong zao 紅棗 ), Wild Yam ( huai shan 淮山 ) and Wolfberry ( gou qizi 枸杞子 ), this soup is excellent in strengthening and nourishing the body. However, one should not drink this soup when having a common cold.
2½ litres (10 cups) water
19 gm Lingzhi 靈芝, rinsed and sliced
19 gm Wild Yam ( huai shan 淮山 ), rinsed
5 pitted red dates ( hong zao 紅棗 ), rinsed
350 gm lean pork, rinsed and scalded with boiling water
2 tablespoons Chinese Wolfberry ( gou qizi 枸杞子 ), rinsed
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Bring the water to a boil in a stockpot. Add all the ingredients, except the salt, and cook over high heat for 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 2½ hours. Season with the salt and remove from the heat. Serve while it hot.