iced sour plum soup

How to Make Chilled Sour Plum Soup: A Complete Guide

Chilled sour plum soup is a beloved summer drink in China, known for its refreshing, tangy-sweet flavor and heat-relieving properties. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

- 150g dried sour plums (wu mei), pitted

- 100g rock sugar (or to taste)

- 2 tablespoons dried tangerine peel (optional, for aroma)

- 1,000ml water

- Ice cubes, for serving

Steps:

1. Prep the ingredients: Rinse the dried sour plums and tangerine peel under running water. Soak the plums in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them, then drain.

2. Cook the base: In a pot, add the plums, tangerine peel, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 20–30 minutes until the plums are tender and the liquid turns fragrant.

3. Sweeten it up: Stir in the rock sugar until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

4. Chill thoroughly: Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool completely. Pour it into a clean jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).

5. Serve: Pour the chilled soup over a glass of ice. For extra refreshment, add a few fresh mint leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Enjoy this homemade, healthy drink that beats the summer heat effortlessly!

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