Delicate lily bulb and lotus seeds create a gentle, calming sweet soup. This traditional family dessert is prized in TCM for promoting restful sleep and soothing the heart.
Rinse dried lotus seeds and soak in warm water for 1 hour until softened; drain and remove green cores if present for a less bitter flavor.
Carefully separate the lily bulb petals, rinse gently to remove debris, and soak briefly in clean water; set aside.
In a medium pot, add soaked lotus seeds, 6 cups water, and dried mandarin peel. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer (low heat), cover, and cook for 45 minutes until lotus seeds are tender but not falling apart.
Stir in lily bulbs and goji berries. Simmer for another 10–12 minutes, uncovered, until the lily bulbs just turn translucent and tender. Avoid overcooking them to preserve their delicate texture.
Add rock sugar, stir gently, and simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes until fully dissolved. Adjust sweetness as desired. Remove mandarin peel, give the soup a final stir, and serve warm or chilled.