Pear Soup
Asian pears have unique energetic properties that, in combination with other ingredients, enable them to help heal and balance the respiratory system. For clients with congestion and cough due to cold, flu, Covid, or allergies, Dr. Wu may prescribe either of two versions of Pear Soup: one with pear and sugar alone, or one that includes an additional medicinal element: Chuan Bei Powder. Your exact symptoms and TCM diagnosis (for example, a productive cough versus a nonproductive cough) will determine which recipe Dr. Wu recommends.
Sources
Asian pears are rounder and firmer (and often larger) that other types of pears. You can find them in many grocery stores and Asian markets. Another Pear Soup ingredient, rock sugar, can be found at Asian markets like New May Wah (707–719 Clement Street, between 8th and 9th, in San Francisco). Rock sugar is irregularly shaped raw sugar crystal, yellow to brown in color. It is sold in clear plastic bags, often under the brand name Lucky Candy.
The third medicinal ingredient, Chuan Bei Powder, is available at Wu’s Healing Center. Use only when prescribed by Dr. Wu.
Ingredients
- 1 Asian pear
- Rock Sugar: Roughly enough to fill your cupped palm, or about 2 cubic inches in size.
- 1 spoonful Chuan Bei Powder (if prescribed by Dr. Wu)
Cooking Instructions
1. Core and cut Asian pear into thin slices with the skin on.
2. Put into a pot and add enough water to cover the pear.
3. Add rock sugar and Chuan Bei Powder (if prescribed).
4. Cook to a boil.
5. Turn to low heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Cool for 5 minutes, then drink soup and eat some of the pear.
7. If you make enough for more than one serving, refrigerate and reheat on the stove.