The Healing Powers of Pear Soup: A Guide to Making and Enjoying this Nutritious Dish
Pear soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. With its ability to support respiratory health and clear phlegm from the lungs, pears have been hailed as a major healing food. This recipe uses Bosc or Asian pears and a variety of herbs and spices to create a warm and comforting soup that is perfect for the autumn season.
To make this recipe, you will need two large or four small pears, peeled, cored and cut into four or six slices. You will also need a cinnamon stick, two thin slices of fresh ginger, and a vanilla pod or one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Raw local honey and a squeeze of fresh lemon are used to sweeten the soup to taste. Optional herbs that can be added to the soup include 10 goji berries, five pieces of chuan bei mu (lily bulb), one slice of dried astragalus, and Chinese dates, known as da zao.
To prepare the soup, bring the pears, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and optional herbs to a boil in four cups of water, or enough to cover the pears. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 30 minutes. Before serving, remove the cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and any other additional herbs that are not edible. Leave the goji berries and dates in the soup, ensuring that each serving has slices of pear. The cooking liquid can be served warm or cool, and additional honey and/or a squeeze of fresh lemon can be added to taste. The soup can be stored in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Aside from being a tasty treat, pear soup also offers a variety of health benefits. Pears are an excellent source of fiber and Vitamin C, and they also contain flavonoids that are known to reduce inflammation and support the immune system. Pears also contain antioxidants that protect the body against free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Moreover, pears are particularly beneficial for respiratory health. The cooling properties of pears make them an ideal food for individuals suffering from dry coughs, bronchitis, or other respiratory conditions. The mucilage in pears helps to soothe and moisten the throat, reducing irritation and inflammation. In addition, the antioxidants found in pears have been shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer.
The combination of pears, cinnamon, and ginger in this soup also provides a warming effect, making it an ideal food for individuals with cold hands and feet or poor circulation. Cinnamon is known to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, while ginger has been shown to improve digestion and reduce nausea.
Finally, the addition of honey and lemon in this recipe enhances the therapeutic properties of the soup. Honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for sore throats and coughs. Lemon provides a boost of Vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps the body to absorb iron.
In conclusion, pear soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that offers a wide range of health benefits. Whether you are looking for a warm and comforting meal or a natural remedy for respiratory conditions, pear soup is a versatile and easy-to-prepare dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Give this recipe a try and experience the many benefits of this healing food for yourself.
