Soups
Corn, Carrot, Water Chestnut and Lean Pork Soup
Corn, carrot, water chestnut and lean pork soup is a sweet, nourishing, and family-friendly soup. Corn strengthens the spleen, carrot brightens the eyes, water chestnut clears heat and promotes fluid production, and lean pork provides high-quality protein. Slowly simmered, the soup turns clear and golden, with a delicate sweetness and a refreshing aftertaste. The crisp texture of water chestnuts complements the tenderness of the pork perfectly. No heavy seasoning is needed – the natural sweetness of the ingredients creates a deeply satisfying and healthy soup.
Main Ingredients
- Lean pork (tenderloin preferred) 250-300g
- Sweet corn 1 ear (approx. 200g)
- Carrot 1 pc (approx. 150g)
- Water chestnuts 6-8 pcs (approx. 150g)
- Fresh ginger 2-3 slices
- Candied dates 1-2 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. Cut corn into 4-5cm sections (keep the silk if washed). Peel and cut carrot into chunks. Peel water chestnuts and cut in half (or into quarters if large). Slice ginger and rinse dates.
Place the blanched pork, corn, carrot, water chestnuts, dates (if using), 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 and the flavours are well blended.
Add salt 10 minutes before serving. Stir well and serve hot.
TCM Notes
Clears heat, promotes fluid production & relieves thirst (core benefit of water chestnuts): Water chestnuts are cold in nature and sweet in taste, acting on the lung and stomach meridians. They clear heat, promote fluid production, and cool the blood – helping to relieve dry mouth and sore throat caused by heat conditions. Strengthens the spleen & provides energy (core benefit of corn): Corn is neutral in nature and sweet in taste, acting on the spleen and stomach meridians. It strengthens the spleen, opens the appetite, and promotes diuresis. Rich in B vitamins, it supports normal nerve function. Eye health & immune support (core benefit of carrots): Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body – supporting vision and immune function. High-quality protein & minerals (core benefit of lean pork): Lean pork provides easily absorbed protein and heme iron, supporting recovery and vitality. Low-fat, light & weight-friendly: This soup is low in fat and calories. Water chestnuts and corn are rich in dietary fibre, increasing satiety – making it an ideal soup for weight management.
Suitable for：Generally suitable for all, especially those with dry mouth or throat discomfort Those with poor appetite or indigestion Growing children and teenagers (vitamin A and protein support) Office workers with heavy screen time (eye health) Those recovering from illness needing gentle nourishment Those on a light, low-fat diet
Not suitable for：Those with spleen-stomach deficiency-cold or diarrhea (Use with caution!): Water chestnuts are cold in nature – overconsumption may worsen diarrhea and abdominal coldness. Add extra ginger to balance. Diabetics (Control portion size): Corn, carrots, and water chestnuts contain natural sugars and starches – reduce corn, omit candied dates, and strictly limit portion size. Pregnant women (Use with caution): Water chestnuts are cold in nature – consume in moderation and consult a physician if needed. Those allergic to corn, carrots, water chestnuts, or pork (rare).
