1: Prepare all ingredients: slice lotus root, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms, and soak black beans.
2: In a large pot, add 4 quarts of water and bring to a boil.
3: Add lotus root, carrots, red dates, dried oysters, and pork ribs to the boiling water.
4: Once it returns to a boil, add shiitake mushrooms, black beans, dried octopus, salt, and chicken bouillon powder.
5: Reduce heat and let simmer for about 60 minutes until ingredients are tender.
6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
