red bean and lotus seed soup

How to Make Red Bean and Lotus Seed Soup: A Complete Guide

Red bean and lotus seed soup is a nourishing, traditional dessert loved for its delicate sweetness and health benefits. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making it at home.

Ingredients:

1 cup red beans, 1/2 cup dried lotus seeds, 1-2 rock sugar cubes (or to taste), 10-15 dried goji berries (optional), and 8 cups of water. Soak red beans and lotus seeds separately for 4-6 hours to soften.

Steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Remove the bitter cores from lotus seeds; red beans need no prepping beyond soaking.

2. Cook Beans First: In a pot, boil soaked red beans with 6 cups of water over medium heat for 40 minutes until tender. Skim off foam.

3. Add Lotus Seeds: Stir in lotus seeds and cook for 20-30 more minutes until both ingredients are soft.

4. Sweeten and Finish: Add rock sugar, goji berries, and simmer for 10 minutes until sugar dissolves. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Serve: Let it cool slightly; serve warm or chilled. Top with osmanthus or crushed nuts for extra flavor.

Tips: For a creamier texture, blend half the soup and mix back. Adjust sugar based on preference. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Enjoy this wholesome treat that balances taste and wellness!