Classic Four Spirits Soup
A classic Taiwanese herbal tonic soup for everyday nourishment — with both vegetarian and pork rib options.
Introduction
Four-Spirit Soup (四神湯), also known as Si Shen Tang, is a traditional Taiwanese herbal soup crafted for digestive support and overall vitality. The “Four Spirits” refer to the four primary herbs: Chinese yam, lotus seed, poria, and gorgon fruit. This mild tonic is a staple in many Taiwanese households and is prized for its gentle, grounding effects.
Traditionally cooked with pork intestines or ribs, we’re also offering a vegetarian twist for those seeking plant-based comfort.
Ingredients
Shared Base Herbs (per 2 servings):
- Four Spirits Soup mix - one pack
- Water – 1500–2000ml
Version 1: Classic with Short Pork Ribs
Additional Ingredients:
- Short pork ribs – 340g (0.75 pound)
- Ginger Slices - 3 pieces
- Goji berries (枸杞) – 5g (add near the end)
- Salt – to taste
- Optional: rice wine (cooking Michiu)
Steps:
- Blanch pork ribs in boiling water with ginger for 2 minutes. Rinse and set aside.
- In a pot, combine water, ribs, and Four Spirits Soup mix.
- [Instant pot] Set pressure cook with soup mode, and brew for around 30 mins.
- [Stovetop pot] Bring to boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer to at least 45 mins to an hour.
- Open the pot, add goji berries and season lightly with salt and rice wine before serving.
Version 2: Vegetarian Comfort
Additional Ingredients:
- Baby Corns – for sweetness and texture
- King Oyster mushrooms – 2–3 pcs, sliced
- Goji berries – 5g
- Salt – to taste
- Optional: rice wine (cooking Michiu)
Steps:
- Soak and rinse all baby corns and mushrooms.
- In a pot, add water, Four Spirits Soup mix, ginger, and mushrooms.
- [Instant pot] Set pressure cook with soup mode, and brew for around 30 mins.
- [Regular pot] Bring to boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer to at least 45 mins to an hour.
- Stir in goji berries and a pinch of salt or rice wine Serve warm.
Pro Tips
- Take a little bit of the dāng guī (Chinese Angelica Root) and Goji berry, soak them with the rice wine in the refrigerator for at least 30 mins. Add the flavored rice wine before serving. That's how you get the Taiwanese night market's authentic flavor.
Why It's Loved
This soup is especially favored in transitional seasons like spring and autumn when the body craves balanced warmth and digestive ease. The herb combination is known in Traditional Chinese Medicine to strengthen the spleen, nourish Qi, and improve water metabolism — making it a gentle daily tonic.
Final Note
Whether you’re steeped in tradition or exploring new ways to nourish the body, Four-Spirits Soup is a grounding, comforting bowl that bridges heritage and modern living.