Autumn Warming A Soup Recipe for Strengthening the Spleen and Nourishing the Liver

Autumn Warming: A Soup Recipe for Strengthening the Spleen and Nourishing the Liver

As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp edge, the season of autumn arrives. It's a time when nature itself prepares for a period of rest and renewal. In traditional Chinese medicine, autumn is the season to focus on strengthening the spleen and nourishing the liver, as these organs play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being during the cooler months.

This autumn warming soup recipe is designed to provide the perfect balance of nourishment, flavor, and healing properties. By incorporating a variety of natural ingredients that are abundant during this season, you can create a comforting bowl of soup that will not only warm your body but also soothe your soul.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken, organic if possible

- 1/2 cup of goji berries

- 1/2 cup of dried dates

- 1/2 cup of dried Chinese yam (Shanyao)

- 1/2 cup of dried codonopsis (Dangshen)

- 2 slices of ginger

- 6 pieces of scallion (white parts only)

- 2 tablespoons of rock sugar or honey

- 8 cups of filtered water

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by rinsing the chicken thoroughly and placing it in a large pot. Add the goji berries, dates, and dried yam to the pot.

2. Cut the ginger into slices and the scallions into white parts only. Add these to the pot.

3. Pour the water into the pot, ensuring that it covers all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.

5. After 2 hours, add the codonopsis and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.

6. Towards the end of the simmering process, add the rock sugar or honey, stirring until it dissolves.

7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.

8. Once the soup has reached the desired consistency and flavor, remove it from heat. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh green herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired.

Health Benefits:

- Chicken: High in protein and essential amino acids, chicken is a great way to support muscle repair and immune function.

- Goji Berries: Known for their adaptogenic properties, goji berries help to balance the body's response to stress and enhance overall vitality.

- Dates: Rich in fiber and vitamins, dates are a natural sweetener that also aid in digestion and blood sugar regulation.

- Chinese Yam: This root vegetable is considered a nourishing food in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to strengthen the spleen and support healthy blood sugar levels.

- Codonopsis: Often referred to as the spleen and lung herb, codonopsis is believed to boost the immune system and improve energy levels.

- Ginger: A well-known anti-inflammatory spice, ginger can help to alleviate colds and flu symptoms and improve digestion.

- Scallions: Packed with vitamins and minerals, scallions are believed to support liver health and increase blood flow.

Enjoy this autumn warming soup as a meal or a soothing beverage, and let the natural healing properties of these ingredients work their magic. As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, this soup is sure to become a cherished staple in your autumnal routine.