Revitalize Your Health with This Delightful Chinese Herbal Soup Recipe

Are you tired of the same old, boring meals that lack flavor and nutrition? Look no further! Discover the wonders of Chinese herbal soups, also known as Yao Shan Dun Zhong, which offer a unique blend of culinary art and traditional medicine. In this article, we will guide you through a mouthwatering recipe that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also boost your health.

What is Yao Shan Dun Zhong?

Yao Shan Dun Zhong, or herbal soup, is a traditional Chinese culinary practice that combines various herbs, spices, and ingredients to create a nutritious and healing broth. These soups are believed to have numerous health benefits, including enhancing the immune system, improving digestion, and promoting overall well-being. Unlike other soups, Yao Shan Dun Zhong focuses on balancing the body's Yin and Yang energies, ensuring harmony and vitality.

Recipe: Chinese Herbal Soup (Yao Shan Dun Zhong)

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (or 2-3 chicken legs)

- 1 tablespoon of Astragalus Root (Huang Qi)

- 1 tablespoon of Codonopsis Root (Dang Shen)

- 1 tablespoon of Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi)

- 1 tablespoon of Chinese Wolfberry (Lu Jiao Bing)

- 1 tablespoon of Chinese Cinnamon (Rou Gui)

- 1 tablespoon of Dried Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi)

- 10 slices of ginger

- 5-6 pieces of star anise (Bai Zi)

- 8 cups of water

- Salt (to taste)

- Optional: 2-3 pieces of dried dates (Da Zao)

Instructions:

1. Wash the chicken thoroughly and place it in a large pot. Fill the pot with 8 cups of water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.

2. Add the Astragalus Root, Codonopsis Root, Goji Berries, Chinese Wolfberry, Chinese Cinnamon, Dried Tangerine Peel, ginger, and star anise to the pot.

3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

4. Let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Optional: Add the dried dates to the soup during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

6. Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

7. Strain the soup to remove the herbs and spices, then return the shredded chicken to the strained broth.

8. Season with salt to taste.

9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro, and enjoy the health benefits of this delicious Chinese herbal soup.

Health Benefits:

1. Immune System Boost: Astragalus Root and Goji Berries are known to enhance the immune system, helping to protect against illnesses and infections.

2. Improved Digestion: Codonopsis Root and Chinese Wolfberry help to improve digestion, alleviate bloating, and reduce constipation.

3. Energy and Vitality: The combination of Astragalus Root, Codonopsis Root, and Chinese Cinnamon works together to increase energy levels and vitality.

4. Heart Health: Chinese Cinnamon is beneficial for heart health, as it can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

5. Stress Relief: The soothing flavors of this soup can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

So, why not indulge in this delightful Chinese herbal soup recipe and reap the numerous health benefits it offers? Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Yao Shan Dun Zhong that will satisfy your taste buds while nurturing your body and soul.