sour plum soup

How to Make Sour Plum Soup: A Complete Guide

Sour plum soup, a timeless Chinese summer drink, is beloved for its refreshing taste and health benefits. Making it at home is simple—here’s a detailed guide to perfecting this classic beverage.

Ingredients:

- 100g dried sour plums (乌梅)

- 50g dried black apricots (山楂干)

- 50g rock sugar (or to taste)

- 1 tablespoon of dried tangerine peel (陈皮, optional)

- 4 cups of water

- A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

Steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the sour plums, black apricots, and tangerine peel under running water. Soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to soften, then drain.

2. Cook the base: In a pot, add all ingredients and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until the liquid darkens and the fruits are tender.

3. Sweeten and cool: Stir in rock sugar until dissolved. Let the soup cool completely, then strain out the solids. For a smoother taste, press the fruits gently while straining.

4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve over ice with a few preserved sour plums or mint leaves for garnish.

Tips:

- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.

- For a tangier version, increase the proportion of black apricots.

- Store in the fridge for up to a week.

Enjoy this homemade, caffeine-free drink that beats the heat and aids digestion!