Dried longan and red beans create a sweet, nourishing dessert soup. This traditional family treat is comforting and believed to support blood health and warmth.
Rinse the red beans thoroughly under cold water, then soak them in fresh water for at least 4 hours or overnight for even cooking.
Drain the beans, add them to a large pot with 6 cups of fresh water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the beans gently for about 60–75 minutes until they are soft but not mushy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the dried longan and rock sugar to the pot with the cooked beans. Stir well and keep simmering on low heat for another 20–30 minutes until the longan are plump and the soup is fragrant.
Stir in the salt. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes and serve hot or warm.