Jujube (hong zao)

Jujube (hong zao), is also called Zizyphi Fructus (Red). It is sold by a 1 pound bag. Also known as jujubes, red dates are widely considered as nourishing by the Chinese. In China tonic soups made from a combination of red dates, astragalus, dried goji berries, ginseng, and dang gui were fed to those recovering from surgery to improve immunity, strengthen the body and prevent relapses. Red dates must be cored before cooking.