Ching Bo Leung: Traditional Chinese Dessert Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 8 cups of water
  • 1/2 cup of rock sugar
  • 12 dried red dates, pitted
  • 12 dried longan
  • 1/4 cup of lotus seeds
  • 1/4 cup of peanuts
  • 1 piece of dried tangerine peel
  • 2 pieces of dried candied winter melon
  • 1 piece of dried persimmon
  • 4 pieces of dried figs
  • 1/4 cup of ginkgo nuts
  • 1/4 cup of barley
  • 5 pieces of dried lily bulbs
  • 1 tablespoon of dried white fungus, soaked and rinsed

Steps and instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a large pot.
  2. Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 2 hours.
  4. Periodically check the pot and stir the ingredients to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
  5. After 2 hours, add the rock sugar and stir until dissolved.
  6. Continue to simmer the mixture for another hour until all the ingredients are well-combined and the soup has a sweet taste.
  7. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool down a bit before serving. It can be served warm or chilled, according to preference.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add a tablespoon of goji berries for added sweetness and health benefits.
  • Include a few pieces of dried lotus seeds for a nutty flavor and texture.
  • Replace the rock sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different type of sweetness.
  • Experiment with different dried fruits such as dried apricots or raisins.
  • Add a pinch of dried osmanthus flowers for a floral aroma.
  • For a creamier texture, add a small amount of coconut milk or almond milk.
  • Try adding a teaspoon of chia seeds for added nutrition and a thicker consistency.
  • Include a small piece of ginger for a hint of warmth and spiciness.
  • Replace the peanuts with cashews or almonds for a different type of nutty flavor.
  • For a refreshing twist, add a few drops of lemon or orange zest.

Recipe overview

Ching Bo Leung is a traditional Chinese sweet soup that is often served as a dessert or a refreshment. It's a healthy concoction of ingredients like lotus seeds, red dates, dried longan, ginkgo nuts, and more. This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutritional benefits. The process of preparing Ching Bo Leung is a slow simmering method that allows the flavors of each component to thoroughly seep into the soup, creating a unique and delightful taste. It's a great dessert option for those who prefer less sweet and more refreshing tastes. Whether you serve it warm or chill it for a cooler treat, this soup is sure to win over your taste buds.

Common questions

  1. Can I adjust the sweetness of the Ching Bo Leung? Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the Ching Bo Leung by adding more or less rock sugar according to your taste preferences.
  2. Can I substitute the dried fruits and nuts? Yes, you can substitute the dried fruits and nuts with other similar ingredients that you prefer.
  3. Can I make Ching Bo Leung in advance? Yes, you can make Ching Bo Leung in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It can be served chilled or warmed up before serving.
  4. Can I freeze Ching Bo Leung? It is not recommended to freeze Ching Bo Leung as the texture and taste may be affected when thawed.
  5. Can I add other ingredients to Ching Bo Leung? Yes, you can add other ingredients such as dried lotus seeds, goji berries, or even coconut milk to enhance the flavor.
  6. Can I reheat leftover Ching Bo Leung? Yes, you can reheat leftover Ching Bo Leung on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warm.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Soup Pot - A large pot to hold and cook the soup.
  • Stirring Spoon - A long-handled spoon for stirring the ingredients while simmering.
  • Measuring Cup - To accurately measure the water and other ingredients.
  • Strainer - To strain the soup and separate the liquid from the solid ingredients.
  • Soup Bowls - To serve the Ching Bo Leung.
  • Ladle - To scoop and serve the soup into bowls.
  • Chilled Glasses - If serving the Ching Bo Leung chilled, glasses can be used instead of bowls.

Origin stories

Ching Bo Leung is a traditional Cantonese sweet soup that has been loved by generations for its delightful flavor and its purported health benefits. This dessert is not only enjoyed for its sweet taste, but also for its medley of textures from the various dried fruits, nuts, and seeds it contains. In traditional Chinese medicine, each ingredient of Ching Bo Leung is believed to have specific health benefits, contributing to the balance of yin and yang within the body. For instance, lotus seeds are said to help with insomnia, while red dates are believed to have blood-nourishing properties. This sweet soup is often served during family gatherings and festivals, symbolizing unity and harmony. It is also a popular choice on hot summer days, as it is believed to have cooling properties. Despite the changing times, the love for Ching Bo Leung remains strong, a testament to its delicious taste and the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.