Nutritious Porridge Recipes for Children to Boost their Spleen and Stomach Health
In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach are considered the foundation of good health. For children, maintaining a healthy spleen and stomach is crucial for their growth and development. One of the best ways to do this is through their diet. Here are some nutritious porridge recipes that are perfect for children to boost their spleen and stomach health.
1. Sweet Rice Porridge
Sweet rice porridge is a classic Chinese comfort food that is easy to digest and great for children's spleen and stomach. It's made with sticky rice and can be flavored with various ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of sticky rice
- 4 cups of water
- 1/4 cup of rock sugar or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the rice to the boiling water and stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add rock sugar or honey to taste.
2. Goji and Red Dates Porridge
This porridge is rich in nutrients and helps to boost the immune system. Goji berries and red dates are both believed to be beneficial for the spleen and stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of goji berries
- 10 red dates
- 1/2 cup of sticky rice
- 4 cups of water
Instructions:
1. Soak the goji berries and red dates in water for 30 minutes.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the soaked goji berries, red dates, and rice to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes.
3. Pumpkin and Ginkgo Porridge
This porridge is a great option for children who are picky eaters. The natural sweetness of pumpkin and the mild flavor of ginkgo nuts make it a delicious and nutritious option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of pumpkin, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup of ginkgo nuts, soaked for 2 hours
- 1/2 cup of sticky rice
- 4 cups of water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the ginkgo nuts thoroughly under cold water.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the pumpkin, ginkgo nuts, and rice to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Chicken and Rice Porridge
Chicken and rice porridge is a staple in many Chinese households. It's believed to be a great remedy for indigestion and can help strengthen the spleen and stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1/2 cup of sticky rice
- 4 cups of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Remove the skin from the chicken and cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a pot, bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the chicken to the boiling water and let it cook until tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the rice to the boiling water and cook until tender.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
In conclusion, these porridge recipes are not only delicious but also beneficial for children's spleen and stomach health. By incorporating these nutritious options into their diet, you can help ensure your little ones grow up strong and healthy.
