Stews
Carrot, Corn and Lean Pork Soup
Carrot, corn and lean pork soup is a sweet, nourishing, and family-friendly soup. Carrots, often called "little ginseng," are rich in beta-carotene; corn is sweet and juicy, strengthening the spleen; lean pork provides high-quality protein. Slowly simmered, the soup turns clear and lightly golden, with tender carrot, plump corn kernels, and succulent pork. No heavy seasoning is needed – the natural sweetness of the ingredients creates a deeply satisfying and healthy soup. It's a bowl of nourishment that's both a meal and a comfort.
Main Ingredients
- Lean pork (tenderloin preferred) 300g
- Carrot 1 pc (approx. 150g)
- Sweet corn 1 ear (approx. 200g)
- Fresh ginger 3 slices
- Candied dates 2 pcs
- Salt to taste
- Water approx. 1.8-2L
Steps
Cut lean pork into approx. 2cm cubes. Blanch in cold water with 1 slice of ginger, bring to a boil, skim off foam, boil for about 3 minutes, then rinse with warm water and drain. Peel and cut carrot into chunks. Cut corn into 4-5cm sections (keep the silk if washed). Slice ginger and rinse dates.
Place the blanched pork, carrot, corn, dates (or red dates), and remaining ginger slices into a clay pot. Add water (approx. 1.8-2L). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until the pork is tender, the carrot is soft, and the corn sweetness has infused the broth.
Add salt 10 minutes before serving. Stir well and serve hot.
TCM Notes
Clears heat, moistens dryness, and harmonizes the stomach: Corn strengthens the spleen and promotes diuresis; carrot nourishes the stomach and brightens the eyes. Together, they gently support digestive health. Eye health & immune support (core benefit of carrot): Beta-carotene in carrots converts to vitamin A, supporting vision and immunity – especially beneficial for those with heavy screen time. High-quality protein & strengthening: Lean pork provides easily absorbed protein and heme iron, supporting recovery and vitality. Digestive health & cholesterol reduction: Corn is rich in dietary fiber, promoting bowel health and helping to lower cholesterol. Vitamins & minerals: A balanced combination of vitamins C, E, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc.
Suitable for：Generally suitable for all, especially those with poor appetite or indigestion Growing children and teenagers (vitamin A and protein support) Office workers with heavy screen time Those recovering from illness or surgery Those on a light, low-fat diet Middle-aged and elderly people (nutrition and digestive support)
Not suitable for：Those with spleen-stomach deficiency-cold or diarrhea (Use with caution): The soup is clear and nourishing but slightly cooling – overconsumption may worsen diarrhea and abdominal coldness. Add extra ginger to balance. Those with food stagnation or abdominal bloating (Use with caution): Corn and carrot are high in fiber and starch – may worsen bloating. Diabetics (Control portion size): Corn and carrots contain sugars and starches with a moderate glycemic index – limit portion size and monitor blood glucose. Those allergic to corn, carrot, or pork (Avoid) (rare).
