24+ Mouthwatering Summer Chinese Soup Recipes to Beat the Summer Heat

When summer rolls in with its blazing heat, our bodies naturally crave foods that are light, hydrating, and easy to digest.

In Chinese cuisine, soups play a vital role in maintaining balance and health, especially during the hot months.

From cooling herbs and detoxifying ingredients to light broths packed with fresh vegetables and lean proteins, summer Chinese soups offer a perfect blend of nourishment and refreshment.

In this collection of 24+ summer Chinese soup recipes, you’ll discover a variety of traditional and modern options—from beloved classics like Winter Melon Soup and Mung Bean Soup to innovative creations like Watermelon Mint Soup.

Whether you’re looking for something soothing after a long day in the sun or a healthy dish to serve your family, these soups are sure to help you stay cool, hydrated, and satisfied all season long.

24+ Mouthwatering Summer Chinese Soup Recipes to Beat the Summer Heat

With over 24+ handpicked summer Chinese soup recipes, you now have a wide array of options to keep your meals both healthy and seasonally appropriate.

These soups are more than just delicious—they’re rooted in the principles of balance and wellness that define Chinese culinary tradition.

Whether you’re seeking to beat the heat, detox your body, or simply enjoy a light and flavorful meal, there’s a soup here for every need and palate.

So the next time you’re looking for a dish that cools you from the inside out, reach for one of these time-tested (and taste-tested) summer soup recipes.

Winter Melon and Barley Soup

Light and cooling, Winter Melon and Barley Soup is a classic Chinese remedy for clearing heat and promoting hydration.

The delicate flavors make it ideal for summer, especially when served slightly warm or even at room temperature. Barley helps reduce internal dampness while winter melon is packed with water content and mild sweetness, making this soup both delicious and medicinal.

Ingredients:

• 500g winter melon, peeled and cubed
• 50g pearl barley (Job’s tears)
• 6 dried red dates (optional, for slight sweetness)
• 1.5 liters of water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse pearl barley thoroughly and soak in water for 1 hour.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the barley. Simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add winter melon cubes and red dates (if using). Simmer for another 20–25 minutes, or until winter melon turns translucent.
4. Season with a pinch of salt.
5. Serve warm or let it cool to room temperature before enjoying.

This soup is especially suitable for hot and humid climates, helping to relieve water retention and support digestion.

Its gentle flavors pair well with light summer meals or can be enjoyed on its own as a detoxifying soup.

Tomato and Egg Drop Soup

Tomato and Egg Drop Soup is a beloved home-style Chinese dish that’s simple, comforting, and ideal for summer.

Tomatoes provide a tangy brightness and vitamin C, while the eggs offer light protein without being heavy. It’s quick to make and perfect as a side or even a light main during hot days when appetite tends to fade.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 750ml chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for slight thickness)
• 1 spring onion, finely chopped
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring broth to a gentle boil. Add chopped tomatoes and simmer for 5–7 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in the soy sauce and optional cornstarch slurry. Simmer for 2 minutes.
3. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup in a circular motion, stirring gently to create silky egg ribbons.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and sesame oil.
5. Garnish with spring onion before serving.

This vibrant and fragrant soup captures the essence of summer.

Its clean ingredients and minimal cooking time make it a go-to for busy days, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or cold noodles.

Mung Bean and Seaweed Soup

Mung Bean and Seaweed Soup is a traditional Chinese cooling soup that’s especially favored in southern China during summer months. Mung beans help clear heat and toxins, while dried seaweed offers minerals and a savory umami flavor.

This soup is not only refreshing but also detoxifying—making it perfect after hot, heavy meals.

Ingredients:

• 100g mung beans
• A small handful of dried kelp (kombu or Chinese dried seaweed), soaked and cut into strips
• 1.5 liters water
• Rock sugar or salt (depending on whether you want it savory or lightly sweet)

Instructions:

1. Rinse mung beans and soak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Soak seaweed separately until softened. Rinse and cut into small pieces.
3. Bring water to a boil and add mung beans. Simmer for 30–40 minutes until beans begin to split.
4. Add seaweed and cook for another 10 minutes.
5. Season with a small amount of salt or rock sugar, depending on taste preference.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

This soup is a fantastic way to beat summer heat and promote healthy digestion.

It can be made ahead and refrigerated, offering a soothing, almost dessert-like option when sweetened, or a savory broth when seasoned with salt.

Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup

Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup is a simple yet satisfying Chinese dish that combines tender chicken with the natural sweetness of corn.

The soup is light yet nourishing, making it ideal for summer when you need something refreshing but filling. It’s often served as a family favorite in many Chinese households.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into thin strips
• 2 ears of fresh corn, husked and cut into halves
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil and add the ginger slices.
2. Add the chicken breast strips to the boiling broth and cook for about 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the corn halves to the broth and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.

This soup is both savory and sweet, offering a comforting balance for the senses.

Its light nature makes it ideal for a light meal during a warm day, and the chicken adds a bit of protein without being heavy. It’s great for any time of day, whether as an appetizer or a standalone meal.

Lotus Root and Pork Soup

Lotus Root and Pork Soup is a fragrant and nutritious soup often enjoyed during the summer months in Chinese households.

The lotus root has a slightly crunchy texture and is full of water content, making it hydrating and cooling. Paired with the richness of pork ribs, this soup is nourishing and perfect for hot days.

Ingredients:

• 500g pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 300g lotus root, peeled and sliced
• 10 dried red dates (optional for added sweetness)
• 1 tbsp goji berries (optional)
• 6 cups water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add water and bring to a boil. Add the pork ribs, lotus root slices, and red dates.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours until the ribs are tender.
4. Add goji berries in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Season the soup with salt before serving.

Lotus Root and Pork Soup is a highly nutritious and hydrating dish. It’s believed to help promote digestion and is particularly beneficial for the respiratory system, which is why it’s so popular in the summer months.

The combination of pork and lotus root provides both nourishment and cooling properties, making it a perfect summer soup.

Chinese Spinach and Tofu Soup

Chinese Spinach and Tofu Soup is a light and refreshing vegetarian option that’s perfect for the hot summer weather. Spinach provides a burst of vitamins and minerals, while tofu offers a smooth texture and protein.

This soup is gentle on the stomach, yet incredibly nutritious, making it ideal for those looking for a meat-free meal.

Ingredients:

• 200g fresh Chinese spinach (or regular spinach)
• 200g soft tofu, cut into cubes
• 1.5 liters vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the sesame oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
3. Add the spinach to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes until wilted.
4. Add the tofu cubes and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.

This soup is light, cooling, and packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy meal during the hot months.

The spinach provides a fresh and vibrant green color, while the tofu adds a creamy texture, making this dish both nourishing and delicious.

Bitter Melon and Pork Soup

Bitter Melon and Pork Soup is a traditional Chinese dish celebrated for its cooling properties. Bitter melon, with its slightly bitter taste, is believed to help expel internal heat and improve digestion, making it an ideal soup for hot summer days.

The richness of the pork ribs balances the bitterness, creating a refreshing yet hearty dish.

Ingredients:

• 300g pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 1 bitter melon, sliced
• 5-6 dried red dates (optional, for sweetness)
• 6 cups water
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 slices of ginger

Instructions:

1. Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 3–5 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add the pork ribs, bitter melon slices, and ginger.
3. Simmer for 1–1.5 hours until the pork ribs are tender.
4. Add the dried red dates during the last 20 minutes of cooking for added sweetness.
5. Season with salt to taste.

This soup is both nourishing and cooling, helping to clear heat from the body while providing a comforting meal.

The bitterness of the melon is balanced by the richness of the pork, making it both a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for hot days.

Sea Cucumber and Mushroom Soup

Sea Cucumber and Mushroom Soup is an elegant and light Chinese soup, often enjoyed during the summer for its mild flavors and health benefits.

Sea cucumber is rich in collagen and believed to promote joint health, while mushrooms provide umami and a deep, savory taste. Together, they make for a delicately flavored soup that’s soothing and nourishing.

Ingredients:

• 100g dried sea cucumber (soaked and softened)
• 200g shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rehydrate the sea cucumber by soaking it in water overnight, then slice it thinly.
2. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil, adding the ginger slices.
3. Add the sea cucumber and sliced mushrooms to the pot and simmer for 40–50 minutes until the sea cucumber is tender.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Sea Cucumber and Mushroom Soup is a deeply nourishing and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a light summer meal.

The soft sea cucumber pairs beautifully with the umami of the mushrooms, making it a sophisticated yet simple dish that is both hydrating and restorative.

Cucumber and Tomato Soup

Cucumber and Tomato Soup is a wonderfully refreshing soup that brings together the crispness of cucumber and the tanginess of tomatoes.

This cold soup is perfect for summer, offering a cooling effect and a burst of vitamins. It’s especially popular in Chinese homes as a quick and healthy dish to make during the warmer months.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 liter chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.
2. Add the cucumber slices to the pot and simmer for another 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

This soup is perfect for those hot summer days when you need something cool and light.

The combination of cucumber’s refreshing crunch and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes creates a harmonious balance of flavors. It can be served chilled or at room temperature for an extra cooling effect.

Chrysanthemum and Pear Soup

Chrysanthemum and Pear Soup is a delightful Chinese herbal soup that combines the cooling properties of chrysanthemum flowers with the natural sweetness of pears.

This soup is ideal for cooling the body, especially during hot weather when you’re looking for something light yet soothing. It’s also believed to help with clearing heat and supporting respiratory health.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
• 10-12 dried chrysanthemum flowers
• 6 cups water
• 3-4 rock sugar pieces (optional for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Wash the chrysanthemum flowers thoroughly and set them aside.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the pear slices and chrysanthemum flowers.
3. Simmer the soup on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the pears are soft and the flavors have infused.
4. Add rock sugar pieces for sweetness, stirring until dissolved.
5. Strain the soup if desired, or serve with the flowers and pear slices.

This cooling soup is both refreshing and mildly sweet, with the floral notes of the chrysanthemum complementing the pear’s crisp sweetness.

It’s perfect for hydrating and cooling down during the summer heat, and the soothing properties of the ingredients can help reduce internal heat and cleanse the system.

Sweet Potato and Lotus Seed Soup

Sweet Potato and Lotus Seed Soup is a comforting and naturally sweet soup that’s perfect for hot weather.

The combination of sweet potatoes and lotus seeds makes it both filling and hydrating, providing a healthy balance of carbohydrates and protein. It’s a great option for those who want a soothing, nutrient-packed soup to help refresh the body.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 100g dried lotus seeds
• 6 cups water
• 3-4 rock sugar pieces (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lotus seeds thoroughly and soak them in water for about 30 minutes.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the sweet potato cubes.
3. Simmer for 15 minutes, then add the lotus seeds and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the lotus seeds are soft.
4. Stir in rock sugar and a pinch of salt to taste.
5. Serve warm or chilled.

This soup offers a lovely combination of sweet and savory, making it a great option for a cooling dessert or light meal.

The lotus seeds are known for their calming effects, while sweet potatoes add a rich, hearty element. It’s perfect for replenishing energy during a hot summer day.

Ginger and Scallion Soup

Ginger and Scallion Soup is a simple yet flavorful soup that is both warming and cooling at the same time.

The natural spiciness of ginger helps stimulate digestion, while the fresh scallions provide a burst of freshness. This soup is particularly soothing when you’re feeling overheated or sluggish during the summer.

Ingredients:

• 2-inch piece of ginger, thinly sliced
• 4-5 scallions, chopped
• 6 cups water
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the ginger slices.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Add the chopped scallions and continue simmering for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot as a soothing, refreshing soup.

This soup is a perfect remedy for cooling down and improving circulation during the summer.

The ginger offers a gentle warmth that balances out the coolness of the scallions, making it a great choice to rejuvenate your body and calm your stomach during the warmer months.

Red Bean and Lotus Root Soup

Red Bean and Lotus Root Soup is a classic, mildly sweet Chinese soup that is both refreshing and nutritious. Red beans, known for their detoxifying properties, combine with the crunchy, water-rich lotus root, which helps hydrate and cool the body.

This soup is especially enjoyed during the summer as it promotes digestion and provides a calming effect.

Ingredients:

• 100g red beans (adzuki beans)
• 300g lotus root, peeled and sliced
• 6 cups water
• 3-4 rock sugar pieces (optional for sweetness)
• A pinch of salt (optional, if you prefer a savory version)

Instructions:

1. Soak the red beans overnight in water to soften them.
2. Rinse the lotus root slices and set aside.
3. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the red beans.
4. Simmer the beans for 30 minutes, then add the lotus root slices.
5. Continue simmering for another 45 minutes until both the beans and lotus root are tender.
6. Stir in the rock sugar (for a sweet version) or salt (for a savory version) to taste.
7. Serve warm or chilled.

This soothing soup is ideal for replenishing energy and cooling down during the hot summer months.

The red beans help detoxify, while the lotus root provides a refreshing crunch and adds a cooling element to the dish. It can be served as a light snack or as part of a larger meal.

Shrimp and Winter Melon Soup

Shrimp and Winter Melon Soup is a delicate, refreshing soup that pairs the natural sweetness of shrimp with the cooling properties of winter melon. Winter melon, which is 90% water, is perfect for hydrating and refreshing your body, while shrimp adds a savory richness that balances the flavors.

This soup is light yet flavorful, making it perfect for a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 500g winter melon, peeled and cubed
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil, then add the ginger slices.
2. Add the cubed winter melon and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until it begins to soften.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This soup is both hydrating and light, with the shrimp providing a savory element that complements the subtle sweetness of the winter melon.

It’s perfect for those looking for a refreshing soup to balance out a summer meal or to enjoy as a standalone dish.

Sweet Almond and Lotus Seed Soup

Sweet Almond and Lotus Seed Soup is a traditional Chinese dessert soup that is naturally sweet and incredibly refreshing.

The combination of almonds and lotus seeds is known for its cooling properties and is often consumed in the summer to help hydrate, clear heat, and support the respiratory system. It’s a wonderful, lightly sweet treat after a meal or as a midday refreshment.

Ingredients:

• 50g sweet almonds (also called “Chinese almonds,” not the common ones, available in Chinese markets)
• 100g lotus seeds, soaked for 2 hours
• 6 cups water
• 3-4 rock sugar pieces (or to taste)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lotus seeds thoroughly, then soak them in water for about 2 hours.
2. In a pot, add the soaked lotus seeds and water, bringing it to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add the sweet almonds and continue to simmer for another 20 minutes until the lotus seeds are tender and the soup has a sweet aroma.
5. Stir in the rock sugar and cook until dissolved.
6. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

This soup is both sweet and soothing, making it an ideal choice for cooling down on a warm summer day.

It has a subtle almond flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the lotus seeds. Perfect for those who want a light, refreshing dessert that also offers health benefits.

Tofu and Chinese Cabbage Soup

Tofu and Chinese Cabbage Soup is a light and comforting soup made with silky tofu and tender Chinese cabbage, often enjoyed during the summer for its gentle flavors and cooling properties.

Chinese cabbage, also known as Napa cabbage, has a high water content, making it an ideal ingredient for hydrating the body. Paired with tofu, this soup is a simple yet nourishing option for warm days.

Ingredients:

• 200g soft tofu, cut into cubes
• 300g Chinese cabbage, chopped
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil and add the ginger slices.
2. Add the Chinese cabbage and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it softens.
3. Add the tofu cubes and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the tofu to warm through.
4. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt and white pepper.
5. Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.

This soup is nourishing and easy to digest, making it a great choice for a light meal during the summer months.

The tofu adds a creamy texture, while the cabbage provides a mild, fresh taste. It’s ideal for those seeking a simple yet flavorful dish that doesn’t weigh them down.

Carrot and Daikon Soup

Carrot and Daikon Soup is a mild, light, and sweet soup commonly enjoyed in Chinese cuisine.

The sweetness of carrots and daikon (Chinese white radish) balances out beautifully in this healthy and refreshing soup. Daikon is known for its cooling properties, making this soup a great option for hot weather, as it helps clear heat and aids in digestion.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 medium daikon radish, peeled and sliced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2-3 slices of ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped coriander for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil and add the ginger slices.
2. Add the sliced carrots and daikon radish and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

This soup is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with both the carrots and daikon providing refreshing and cooling benefits.

The soup is simple to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for a refreshing, light meal.

Chinese Yam and Goji Berry Soup

Chinese Yam and Goji Berry Soup is a wholesome, lightly sweet soup that’s nourishing and energizing, making it ideal for hot summer days.

The Chinese yam (also known as Dioscorea) is believed to have cooling properties, while goji berries are known for their health benefits, including boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. This soup is great for revitalizing your body and providing gentle energy.

Ingredients:

• 200g Chinese yam, peeled and sliced
• 30g dried goji berries
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp rock sugar (optional)
• 2-3 slices of ginger

Instructions:

1. Rinse the dried goji berries and soak them in water for 10 minutes.
2. In a pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil and add the ginger slices.
3. Add the Chinese yam and simmer for about 40 minutes until the yam becomes tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Add the goji berries and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Stir in rock sugar, if desired, to sweeten the soup.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

Chinese Yam and Goji Berry Soup is not only a healthy and refreshing summer dish but also an excellent tonic for overall well-being.

The combination of the cooling yam and the nourishing goji berries makes this soup an energizing and hydrating option for the warmer months.

Watermelon and Mint Soup

Watermelon and Mint Soup is a cool, hydrating soup perfect for summer. Watermelon, with its high water content, is great for staying hydrated, while mint adds a refreshing, aromatic flavor that enhances the soup’s cooling effect.

This soup can be served chilled, making it a perfect light and refreshing treat during hot weather.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• 2-3 tbsp honey or rock sugar (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp lime juice (optional, for a tangy twist)

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon cubes in a blender until smooth.
2. Add a handful of mint leaves and blend again to infuse the mint flavor into the soup.
3. If you like a sweeter taste, add honey or rock sugar and blend until dissolved.
4. Optionally, add lime juice for a bit of tang.
5. Strain the soup to remove the pulp, then chill in the fridge for about 1-2 hours before serving.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a few mint leaves.

This refreshing watermelon and mint soup is perfect for cooling down after a hot day.

The natural sweetness of watermelon combined with the mint creates a delightful, thirst-quenching soup that’s light and hydrating.

Corn and Pork Bone Soup

Corn and Pork Bone Soup is a hearty yet light summer dish known for its rich flavor and nutritional value.

The sweetness of the corn complements the savory pork bones, creating a comforting and refreshing soup. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it ideal for providing nourishment during the summer.

Ingredients:

• 300g pork bones (cut into pieces)
• 2-3 ears of corn, cut into chunks
• 6 cups water
• 2-3 slices ginger
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the pork bones in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to remove any impurities, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add the water, pork bones, ginger slices, and corn chunks.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until the pork bones are tender and the soup has a rich flavor.
4. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or green onions.

This corn and pork bone soup offers a comforting and light meal, with the sweet corn balancing out the savory pork broth.

It’s rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for a nourishing summer dish.

Sweet Corn and Tofu Soup

Sweet Corn and Tofu Soup is a comforting, light, and nutritious Chinese soup.

The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the soft, smooth texture of tofu. This soup is perfect for hot summer days as it’s easy to digest and offers hydration while being satisfying. It’s a wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and creamy.

Ingredients:

• 2 ears of fresh corn, husked and kernels removed
• 200g soft tofu, cut into cubes
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1-2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Chopped spring onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil.
2. Add the corn kernels and simmer for 10 minutes until the corn is tender.
3. Gently add the tofu cubes and continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, just to warm the tofu through.
4. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh chopped spring onions before serving.

This sweet corn and tofu soup is light yet filling, offering a comforting and refreshing meal during the hot summer months.

The combination of the sweet corn and soft tofu creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile, while the addition of soy sauce and sesame oil enhances its depth.

Mung Bean and Barley Soup

Mung Bean and Barley Soup is a popular Chinese dish known for its cooling properties, making it ideal for summer.

Mung beans help detoxify the body and are known for their ability to clear heat, while barley provides a soothing, mild flavor that balances the soup. Together, they create a refreshing and hydrating dish perfect for hot days.

Ingredients:

• 100g mung beans
• 100g barley (Job’s tears)
• 6 cups water
• 3-4 pieces rock sugar (optional for sweetness)
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the mung beans and barley thoroughly, then soak them in water for 1-2 hours.
2. In a pot, add the soaked mung beans and barley with 6 cups of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans and barley are tender.
4. If desired, add rock sugar to sweeten the soup or a pinch of salt for a savory version.
5. Serve warm or chilled.

This soup is perfect for cooling down in the summer, as it’s hydrating and full of nutrients. Mung beans are known for their detoxifying qualities, while barley is great for digestion. It’s a simple, healthy soup that will leave you feeling refreshed.

Bitter Melon and Pork Soup

Bitter Melon and Pork Soup is a traditional Chinese soup with a distinctive flavor profile.

The bitter melon helps clear internal heat and toxins, while pork bones provide a rich, savory broth. While the taste of bitter melon may not be for everyone, its cooling and detoxifying properties make it especially beneficial during the summer.

Ingredients:

• 300g pork bones (or pork ribs)
• 1 medium bitter melon, sliced
• 6 cups water
• 2-3 slices ginger
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the pork bones in boiling water for 3-5 minutes to remove impurities, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, add the water, pork bones, ginger slices, and bitter melon.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1–1.5 hours until the pork is tender and the broth has developed a rich flavor.
4. Season with salt to taste and serve.

This soup is both refreshing and deeply nourishing. While the bitterness of the melon may be strong, it provides great cooling benefits that help balance the body’s internal heat during summer.

This is an ideal soup for those who enjoy bitter flavors and are looking for a detoxifying dish.

Chinese Spinach and Egg Soup

Chinese Spinach and Egg Soup is a light, nutritious, and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. Chinese spinach (or “amaranth”) is rich in vitamins and minerals, while the egg provides protein and adds a silky texture to the broth.

This soup is incredibly quick to prepare, making it a great option for a light meal when you’re short on time.

Ingredients:

• 200g Chinese spinach (or regular spinach), washed and chopped
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1-2 slices ginger (optional)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a pot.
2. Add the ginger slices (optional) and chopped spinach.
3. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the spinach is tender.
4. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs while stirring the soup gently to create egg ribbons.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and white pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.

This soup is light, quick, and incredibly refreshing, making it a perfect summer meal.

The spinach provides a fresh, green taste that pairs beautifully with the silky eggs, while the soy sauce adds depth to the broth. It’s a healthy, easy-to-digest option that’s both satisfying and cooling.