Soothe Your Body and Strengthen Your Spleen A Culinary Journey into Moisture-Wicking and Spleen-Nourishing Delicacies
In the realm of traditional Chinese medicine, the balance of the body's Yin and Yang, as well as the harmonious functioning of the internal organs, are paramount to maintaining health. One such vital organ is the spleen, which plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. The spleen also helps to regulate the body's moisture levels, thus making it a key player in preventing dampness, a common ailment in the cooler months. To keep your spleen healthy and your body free from dampness, why not embark on a culinary journey into the realm of moisture-wicking and spleen-nourishing delicacies? Here are some delicious recipes that will soothe your body and strengthen your spleen.
1. Braised Pork with Astragalus and Goji Berries
Astragalus and goji berries are well-known for their spleen-nourishing properties. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 500g pork belly, thinly sliced
- 10 goji berries
- 5-6 slices of dried astragalus
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- 2 cups of water
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and blanch the pork slices for about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pot, add the goji berries and astragalus slices. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
3. Add the pork slices, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Simmer for about 1 hour over low heat.
4. Serve warm, with steamed white rice or alone as a comforting meal.
2. Stewed Chicken with Dried Tangerine Peel and Chinese Yam
This dish is perfect for those who seek to balance their body's moisture levels while nourishing their spleen.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 20g dried tangerine peel
- 100g Chinese yam, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the chicken and boil for about 10 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the chicken with cold water.
2. In a separate pot, add the dried tangerine peel, ginger, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and salt. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
3. Add the chicken and Chinese yam to the pot. Simmer for about 1 hour over low heat.
4. Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve warm.
3. Rice Noodles with Lotus Root and Bok Choy
Lotus root and bok choy are both excellent for removing dampness and strengthening the spleen.
Ingredients:
- 200g rice noodles
- 1 medium-sized lotus root, peeled and sliced
- 2 bok choy, leaves separated
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and drain.
2. In a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for about 1 minute.
3. Add the lotus root slices to the wok and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the bok choy leaves to the wok and stir-fry until they wilt.
5. Add the cooked rice noodles to the wok, followed by soy sauce and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, with a side of pickled vegetables or sauce of your choice.
By incorporating these spleen-nourishing and moisture-wicking dishes into your diet, you can keep your body balanced and healthy throughout the year. Remember to enjoy these delicious meals in moderation and always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle. Bon appétit!
