If you’ve ever strolled through the aisles of an Asian grocery store or heard about traditional Chinese desserts, you might have come across snow fungus, also known as white fungus, tremella, or even silver ear mushroom. Despite sounding exotic, it’s a versatile ingredient that’s easy to work with once you get familiar with it.
Snow fungus soup is more than just a dessert-it’s a nourishing treat celebrated for its health benefits, including hydrating skin, boosting immunity, and improving digestion. Its delicate, jelly-like texture paired with a subtle sweetness makes it a delightful end to any meal. This recipe will guide you through creating a comforting, slightly sweet, and utterly satisfying soup, perfect for cozy afternoons or as a light dessert after dinner.
Snow Fungus Soup Recipe
Let’s dive into the heart of the matter. Here’s the classic recipe that balances health and taste, while keeping things simple enough for home cooks to enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make a traditional snow fungus soup:
- Snow fungus (Tremella fuciformis) – 15-20 grams, dried
- Red dates (jujubes) – 6-8 pieces, pitted
- Goji berries – 1-2 tablespoons
- Rock sugar – 30-50 grams, adjust to taste
- Water – 6-8 cups
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Optional:
- Lotus seeds – 1/4 cup, soaked for 2 hours
- Longan fruit (dried) – 8-10 pieces for added sweetness
- Fresh ginger slices – 2-3 pieces for a hint of warmth
These ingredients combine to create a soup that’s lightly sweet, subtly earthy, and incredibly nourishing.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect snow fungus soup:
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Prepare The Snow Fungus
- Rinse the dried snow fungus under cold water.
- Soak in a bowl of warm water for about 30-45 minutes, until it softens and expands.
- Trim the hard, yellowish stem at the base and tear the fungus into small, bite-sized pieces.
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Prepare Other Ingredients
- Rinse the red dates and goji berries.
- If using lotus seeds, drain after soaking.
- Slice ginger if using.
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Start Cooking
- Bring 6-8 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot.
- Add snow fungus, red dates, and lotus seeds (if using).
- Lower heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 45-60 minutes. The fungus should become soft and gelatinous.
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Add Sweetness And Finish
- Add rock sugar, stirring until dissolved.
- Add goji berries and longan fruit in the last 5-10 minutes to preserve their delicate texture.
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Serve
- Serve warm for a comforting treat, or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients adds depth and intention to your cooking:
- Snow fungus: High in dietary fiber, polysaccharides, and antioxidants. Its gelatinous texture thickens the soup naturally.
- Red dates: Naturally sweet and packed with vitamin C, they also help improve blood circulation.
- Goji berries: Tiny but mighty, they provide antioxidants, vitamins, and a slight tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Rock sugar: A traditional sweetener that dissolves easily and blends harmoniously without overpowering the subtle flavors.
- Lotus seeds: Offer a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor, also known for their calming properties.
- Longan fruit: Adds a floral sweetness that complements the fungus beautifully.
Expert Tips
Here are some tips to elevate your snow fungus soup:
- Soaking is key: Don’t rush the soaking process; fully hydrated fungus has the perfect texture.
- Low and slow cooking: A gentle simmer brings out natural sweetness and maintains the soft, jelly-like texture.
- Sugar last: Adding rock sugar too early can make the soup overly sweet or alter its consistency.
- Double batch for convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days; flavors often improve overnight.
- Texture variation: Tear the fungus into uneven pieces for a rustic, visually appealing look.
Recipe Variations
Snow fungus soup is versatile-feel free to experiment:
- Vegan version: Keep it simple with fungus, dates, goji berries, and rock sugar.
- Nutty twist: Add almonds or walnuts in the final 10 minutes for a crunchy contrast.
- Tropical version: Include dried longan and a few slices of fresh pear for a fragrant variation.
- Medicinal touch: Add Chinese herbs like astragalus or codonopsis for enhanced health benefits.
Final Words
Snow fungus soup is more than just a dessert-it’s a delicate balance of texture, subtle sweetness, and wellness. It’s forgiving, adaptable, and perfect for both everyday cooking and special occasions. Once you get the hang of it, you can experiment endlessly with herbs, fruits, and nuts to create your signature version.
FAQs
What Is Snow Fungus Soup?
Snow fungus soup is a popular traditional Chinese dessert made from snow fungus (also known as white fungus or tremella), a type of edible fungus. It is typically prepared with ingredients like rock sugar, dried longan, lotus seeds, and sometimes other herbs or fruits. The soup is known for its soothing and nutritious qualities, often consumed for its health benefits related to skin, lungs, and overall wellness.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Snow Fungus?
Snow fungus is believed to have numerous health benefits, including improving skin hydration, enhancing immune function, and promoting lung health. It is rich in polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also thought to support digestive health and improve overall vitality.
How Do You Prepare Snow Fungus For Soup?
To prepare snow fungus for soup, begin by soaking dried snow fungus in warm water for 20-30 minutes until it becomes soft and gelatinous. Once rehydrated, tear the fungus into smaller pieces, discarding any tough stems. The fungus can then be added directly to the soup to cook.
What Ingredients Are Typically Used In Snow Fungus Soup?
The main ingredients in snow fungus soup typically include dried snow fungus, rock sugar, dried longan, lotus seeds, and sometimes goji berries, red dates, or other herbal ingredients. These ingredients contribute both flavor and nutritional benefits to the soup.
Can I Make Snow Fungus Soup Without Rock Sugar?
Yes, you can make snow fungus soup without rock sugar. If you’re looking for a healthier or less sweet version, you can substitute rock sugar with honey, regular sugar, or a sugar substitute of your choice. However, keep in mind that rock sugar gives the soup a distinctive flavor and texture.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Snow Fungus Soup?
Cooking snow fungus soup generally takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. After soaking the snow fungus and preparing the other ingredients, the soup should be simmered gently on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the snow fungus to become tender and gelatinous.
Can I Add Other Fruits To Snow Fungus Soup?
Yes, you can add a variety of fruits to snow fungus soup. Common additions include lychees, peaches, or red dates, which add sweetness and additional health benefits. Some people also use fresh fruits like pears or apples to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
Is Snow Fungus Soup Suitable For Vegetarians Or Vegans?
Yes, snow fungus soup can be made vegetarian or vegan by using plant-based ingredients. For example, you can replace any animal-derived ingredients (like honey) with vegan alternatives such as agave syrup or maple syrup. Ensure that all ingredients, including any added herbs or sweeteners, are plant-based.
Can Snow Fungus Soup Be Served Cold?
Yes, snow fungus soup can be served both hot or cold, depending on personal preference. In some regions, it is commonly served cold as a refreshing dessert, especially during the summer months. Simply allow the soup to cool and chill it in the refrigerator before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Snow Fungus Soup?
Leftover snow fungus soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove. If the soup has thickened, you may need to add a small amount of water to reach the desired consistency.