Snow Fungus & Lotus Seed Soup

Name: Snow Fungus & Lotus Seed Soup
Prep time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: Dried snow fungus (tremella) — 1 head; Lotus seeds — 1/2 cup; Red dates — 6 pieces; Rock sugar — 3-4 tbsp; Water — 6 cups

Earth Element · 土 Sweet Neutral

The first time I saw snow fungus bloom in hot water — from a dried, papery curl into a pale coral of translucent fronds — I understood why it has been called "poor man's bird's nest."

Prep 45 min

Servings 4 servings

Element Earth 土

Total 45 min

By FiveFlavor Kitchen Reviewed by Dr. M. Wu, L.Ac. Updated August 17, 2026

Why This Elixir Works

Sweet and neutral, snow fungus is traditionally used to nourish the Lung and moisten dryness. Lotus seeds calm the Heart and support the Spleen, making this a dessert that feels as restorative as it tastes.

Earth element · Sweet phase of the five-flavor cycle

Ingredients

Dried snow fungus (tremella) 1 head
Lotus seeds 1/2 cup
Red dates 6 pieces
Rock sugar 3-4 tbsp
Water 6 cups

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The Refining Process

Step 1
Soak the snow fungus in cold water 2-3 hours until soft. Trim the yellow base and tear into small florets.
Step 2
Soak lotus seeds 30 minutes.
Step 3
Combine everything except the sugar with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer 30 minutes.
Step 4
Add rock sugar and simmer 10 more minutes until the liquid is glossy.
Step 5
Serve warm or chilled.

Alchemist's Note

Naturally sweet and neutral — suitable for most people year-round. Educational purposes only.

Snow fungus turns into a translucent, almost jelly-like dessert that Chinese cooks have served for centuries — often with lotus seeds and red dates, sweetened gently and eaten warm or chilled.

It looks like a jewel and tastes like comfort.