Soups
Chinese Yam, Millet and Lean Pork Soup
Chinese yam, millet and lean pork soup is a nourishing soup that combines the health benefits of yam, millet, and pork. Yam strengthens the spleen and tonifies qi; millet harmonizes the stomach and nourishes blood; lean pork supplements deficiency and strengthens the body. Simmered together over low heat, they create a clear, mellow, and aromatic broth – perfect for supporting digestion and vitality. This soup is an excellent everyday tonic for all seasons.
Main Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin (lean) 250g
- Chinese yam (iron yam preferred) 300g
- Millet 80g
- Dried scallops (conpoy) 30g
- Fresh ginger 5 slices
- Goji berries 15g
- Red dates (pitted) 5-6 pcs
- Salt to taste
- Water 2-2.5L
- Chopped spring onions A small handful
Steps
Cut pork into 2cm cubes. Blanch in boiling water with 2 slices of ginger for 2-3 minutes, skimming off foam. Rinse with warm water and drain. Peel the yam (wear gloves), cut into chunks, and soak in water. Rinse millet twice and soak for 30 minutes. Soak dried scallops in warm water for 30 minutes, then shred.
Place the blanched pork, yam chunks, millet, shredded scallops, red dates, and remaining ginger slices into a clay pot. Add water (approx. 2.2L). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours. Skim off any surface fat and foam occasionally.
10 minutes before serving, add goji berries and salt to taste. Stir well.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped spring onions, and serve hot.
TCM Notes
Digestive health: Yam is rich in mucilage and diastase, which protect the gastric lining and support digestion. Millet strengthens the spleen and stomach, while lean pork provides high-quality protein. Strengthening & immunity support: Lean pork provides heme iron and quality protein for blood building and body strength; yam offers essential amino acids and trace minerals for immunity. Nourishing yin & moisturizing: The mucilage in yam helps relieve dryness, such as dry mouth, throat, and skin. Kidney support: Yam nourishes the kidneys and helps reduce frequent nighttime urination and lower back weakness. Calcium & trace minerals: Dried scallops are rich in calcium, phosphorus, and zinc, supporting bone health and development.
Suitable for：Those with weak spleen and stomach, poor digestion, or loss of appetite Individuals with malnutrition, fatigue, or post-illness recovery needs Children and adolescents during growth periods Middle-aged and elderly for kidney and digestive support Overworked professionals needing gentle nourishment Anyone seeking seasonal wellness during autumn and winter
Not suitable for：Those with food stagnation or abdominal bloating (Avoid): Millet and yam are both somewhat binding and may worsen bloating. Those with acute damp-heat or external excess conditions (Use with caution): Symptoms include fever, sore throat, thick greasy tongue coating, or constipation. Diabetics (Strict portion control): Both millet and yam are moderate-to-high glycemic index foods. Reduce millet to 40g and strictly limit portion size. Those allergic to seafood (Omit scallops): Dried scallops are shellfish; omit if allergic. Those allergic to yam or pork (rare).
