How to pair Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane mushroom) for soup preparation

Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane mushroom) is rich in polysaccharides, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements. It can be combined with ingredients such as lotus seeds, codonopsis root (Dang Shen), crucian carp, Chinese angelica (Dang Gui), and red dates to make nourishing soups. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Lotus Seeds

Lotus seeds contain abundant proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and various vitamins. When combined with Hericium erinaceus in soups, they have the effects of nourishing the heart, calming the mind, strengthening the spleen, and stopping diarrhea. This combination is especially suitable for individuals experiencing palpitations, insomnia, spleen deficiency, or diarrhea.

2. Codonopsis Root (Dang Shen)

Codonopsis root is neutral in nature and sweet in taste, and functions to replenish middle-jiao qi and benefit vital energy. When cooked together with Hericium erinaceus, it can help alleviate symptoms such as fatigue due to qi deficiency and poor appetite. The combination of both ingredients provides both qi-replenishing and yin-nourishing effects, making it suitable for all populations.

3. Crucian Carp

Hericium erinaceus can also be paired with crucian carp. Crucian carp is rich in high-quality protein and various minerals. When combined with Hericium erinaceus to make soup, it not only offers a delicious flavor but also has the effects of enriching blood, improving complexion, nourishing yin, and moistening dryness.

4. Chinese Angelica (Dang Gui)

Dang Gui is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb commonly used for promoting blood circulation and replenishing blood. It contains volatile oils, organic acids, and various trace elements. When combined with Hericium erinaceus in soups, it can promote blood circulation and regulate menstruation, effectively improving conditions such as irregular menstruation and pallor in women.

5. Red Dates

Red dates are rich in iron and vitamins, and are effective for enriching blood and improving complexion. When combined with Hericium erinaceus in soups, they not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also strengthen the effects of nourishing blood and replenishing vital energy, making it especially suitable for women and individuals with weak constitutions.

When preparing the soup, it is recommended to soak the Hericium erinaceus and other hard-textured ingredients until softened before slowly stewing them together with other ingredients to fully release their nutritional value and flavor.