💛A Bowl Full of Memories

I first fell in love with this soup as a graduate student.

Every week, like clockwork, the Filipino staff at the hospital cafeteria would prepare a pot of mung bean soup—and it was always a crowd favorite. There was just something about it.

Now, I’ll be honest… it’s not the prettiest soup.
But don’t let looks deceive you.

Because this?
This is pure comfort in a bowl.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying in a way that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. And one of the things I love most? It’s incredibly easy to make.

🌏The History Behind Monggo (Mung Bean Soup)

This dish is inspired by monggo (or munggo), a traditional Filipino mung bean stew that has been enjoyed for generations.

In Filipino households, mung bean soup is:

• Affordable
• Nutrient-dense
• Often made as a weekly staple

Traditionally, it may include:

• Garlic, onion, and ginger
• Leafy greens like moringa (malunggay)
• Sometimes fish or meat (in non-vegan versions)

It’s a dish rooted in resourcefulness, nourishment, and community—something that deeply resonates with me.

🌿Moringa vs. Spinach: A Practical Swap

Traditionally, this soup is made with malunggay, the Filipino term for moringa.

Moringa is:

• Rich in Vitamin C
• High in calcium and iron
• A good source of plant protein
• Widely grown in the Philippines, often right in backyard gardens

In recent years, it’s been labeled a “superfood”—but in many cultures, it’s simply been food as medicine all along.

That said, fresh moringa can be hard to find.

So if you’re like me?
Spinach is a beautiful substitute.

And honestly?
The spinach version is the one I fell in love with—and I think you will too.

🌿Why This Soup Supports an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle

This isn’t just comfort food—it’s functional nourishment.

💚 Mung Beans

• Excellent source of plant-based protein
• High in fiber for blood sugar balance
• Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation

🧄 Garlic + Ginger

• Natural anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting ingredients
• Help support digestion and gut health

🥥 Coconut Milk

• Provides healthy fats that support hormone balance
• Adds creaminess without dairy

🥬 Leafy Greens (Spinach or Moringa)

• Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
• Support detoxification and overall vitality

🍄 Optional Mushroom Powder

• Adds deep umami flavor
• Supports immune health

🍲Simple, Nourishing, and Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best things about this soup?

✔ It’s easy to make
✔ It’s budget-friendly
✔ It freezes beautifully
✔ It tastes even better the next day

If you’re trying to eat more anti-inflammatory meals without overcomplicating your life…
this is one to keep in rotation.

As you can see, it’s quite simple to make! Simply cook the beans in vegetable stock, and season to taste. In the meantime, sauté your aromatics (onions, garlic, and ginger). Then add to cooked beans and finish with coconut milk. Add moringa (or spinach), then serve!

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