Huaiyang-style Sweet Soup

Ingredients

In Huaiyang cuisine, the original Cheng tng recipe is adapted to incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. The Huaiyang-style Sweet Soup may include additional ingredients such as lotus seeds and snow fungus, which are commonly used in Huaiyang cuisine. The soup may also have a slightly different flavor profile, with a delicate balance of sweetness and subtle herbal notes. We alse have the original recipe for Cheng tng, so you can check it out.

• 50g (1.8 oz) dried longan 50g (1.8 oz) dried longan
• 30g (1 oz) lotus seeds 30g (1 oz) lotus seeds
• 20g (0.7 oz) snow fungus 20g (0.7 oz) snow fungus
• 30g (1 oz) barley 30g (1 oz) barley
• 50g (1.8 oz) rock sugar 50g (1.8 oz) rock sugar
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) water 1.5 liters (6 cups) water
• Optional: a few pandan leaves for fragrance Optional: a few pandan leaves for fragrance

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the dried longan, lotus seeds, snow fungus, and barley in separate bowls of water for about 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Drain the soaked ingredients and rinse them thoroughly.
3. 3.
   In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
4. 4.
   Add the soaked dried longan, lotus seeds, snow fungus, and barley to the pot.
5. 5.
   If using pandan leaves, tie them into a knot and add them to the pot for extra fragrance.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the ingredients for about 1 hour, or until they are tender.
7. 7.
   Add the rock sugar to the pot and stir until it dissolves completely.
8. 8.
   Continue simmering for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool slightly.
10. 10.
    Serve the Huaiyang-style Sweet Soup warm or chilled, according to your preference.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried longan — Make sure to soak the dried longan before using to rehydrate them and enhance their natural sweetness.
• Lotus seeds — Soak the lotus seeds to soften them and remove any bitterness.
• Snow fungus — Soak the snow fungus until it becomes soft and pliable, then trim off any hard parts before using.
• Barley — Rinse the barley thoroughly to remove any impurities before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more fragrant soup, add a few pandan leaves while simmering the ingredients.
• Adjust the sweetness of the soup by adding more or less rock sugar according to your taste preferences.
• You can add other ingredients such as red dates or dried goji berries for additional flavor and nutritional benefits.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the soup briefly with an immersion blender before serving.
• Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Huaiyang-style Sweet Soup in small bowls or dessert cups. Garnish with a sprinkle of dried longan or a few lotus seeds for an elegant touch. Enjoy it warm during colder months or chilled with ice cubes for a refreshing treat in the summer.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can serve the Huaiyang-style Sweet Soup in traditional Chinese porcelain bowls or delicate glassware. Consider adding a small mint leaf or a drizzle of honey on top for an extra touch of elegance.