Autumns Elixir A LungSoothing and BodyNourishing Soup Recipe
Embrace the crisp, autumnal air with this soothing and rejuvenating Lung-Nourishing and Body-Nourishing Soup. As the leaves begin to turn and the temperatures drop, it's the perfect time to nourish your body from the inside out. This hearty soup is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a therapeutic blend of ingredients designed to support lung health and overall well-being during the changing seasons.
Introduction
Autumn marks the transition from the warmth of summer to the cooler days of winter. It's a time when our bodies can be particularly susceptible to colds, flu, and respiratory issues. The Lung-Nourishing and Body-Nourishing Soup is a traditional remedy that aims to fortify the lungs, boost the immune system, and provide a comforting meal during the autumnal months.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken or turkey bones
- 4 quarts (4 liters) of water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried sage
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 cup of pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup of dried goji berries
- 1/2 cup of dried shiitake mushrooms
- 1/4 cup of dried reishi mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Begin by placing the chicken or turkey bones in a large pot. Fill the pot with water, ensuring that the bones are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes to remove impurities. Skim any foam that rises to the surface during this time.
2. After 30 minutes, strain the stock and discard the bones. Return the stock to the pot and bring it back to a simmer.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Stir in the thyme, sage, bay leaf, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Add the pumpkin puree, goji berries, and dried mushrooms to the soup. Simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are soft.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Stir in the sesame oil and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Benefits
- Pumpkin: Rich in beta-carotene, pumpkin supports lung health and can help prevent respiratory issues.
- Goji Berries: These berries are known for their immune-boosting properties and are believed to help strengthen the lungs.
- Shiitake and Reishi Mushrooms: These mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to support lung health and overall vitality.
- Garlic and Ginger: Both of these ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the respiratory system.
Conclusion
The Lung-Nourishing and Body-Nourishing Soup is a comforting and healing dish that can be enjoyed throughout the autumn season. Its combination of immune-boosting ingredients and soothing flavors makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain health and well-being during the changing of the seasons. So, gather around the table, savor the warmth of this soup, and let the autumnal breeze carry away any remnants of summer's heat.
