Soothing Your Liver and Spleen A StepbyStep Guide to Cooking a Healing Soup

Embarking on a journey to enhance your liver and spleen health through nourishing soups is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a therapeutic one. Here's a detailed guide on how to cook a liver and spleen-nourishing soup that will soothe your body and soul.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) pork rib or beef brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 2-3 pieces of dried goji berries (goji)

- 10-12 dates, pitted

- 4-6 slices of ginger

- 1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced

- 1 cup of lotus seeds, soaked overnight

- 2 cups of radish slices

- 8 cups of water

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: 1-2 slices of Chinese wolfberry (Lycium barbarum)

Preparation:

1. Begin by cleaning the pork rib or beef brisket. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

2. Soak the goji berries and lotus seeds in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to soften them and release their nutrients.

3. Peel and thinly slice the ginger. This will add a subtle warmth to your soup.

4. Peel and thinly slice the onion. Onions are not only flavorful but also beneficial for the liver and spleen.

5. If using Chinese wolfberry, wash and slice them. These berries are known for their liver-cleansing properties.

Cooking Process:

1. In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the pork rib or beef brisket to the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to remove any impurities and blood from the meat.

2. After 5 minutes, remove the pot from heat and discard the water. Rinse the meat under cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Return the pot to the stove and add the cleaned meat, goji berries, dates, ginger, and onion slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add the soaked lotus seeds and radish slices to the pot. The radish is a cooling vegetable that helps to nourish the liver and spleen.

5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

6. During the last 15 minutes of simmering, add the optional Chinese wolfberry slices if using. These will add a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the soup.

7. Once the soup is ready, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.

8. Serve the liver and spleen-nourishing soup while it's still hot. You can garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.

Benefits:

This liver and spleen-nourishing soup is rich in nutrients that support the functions of these vital organs. The goji berries, dates, and lotus seeds are known for their liver-cleansing properties, while the pork or beef, ginger, and radish help to strengthen the spleen. The gentle simmering process ensures that the flavors are fully extracted and the nutrients are well-cooked.

Remember, the key to a healing soup is patience and care. Take your time to prepare the ingredients and let the slow cooking process infuse your soup with the essence of health and well-being. Enjoy your nourishing liver and spleen soup, and savor the warmth it brings to both your body and spirit.