Post-Operative Qi and Blood Nourishment A Healing Braised Pork Rib Soup Recipe

In the aftermath of surgery, the body often requires additional support to rebuild and strengthen itself. This is where traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) comes into play. One such TCM recipe that is believed to aid in post-operative recovery is the Qi and Blood Nourishment Braised Pork Rib Soup. This delicious and nutritious soup is packed with ingredients that are known for their healing properties, making it a comforting meal for patients who are recovering from surgery.

Ingredients:

- 500g pork ribs

- 10g astragalus root (huangqi)

- 10g goji berries (gouqizi)

- 10g Chinese yam (shan yao)

- 5g red dates (hong shi)

- 10g dried dates (shuizi)

- 10g Chinese wolfberry leaves (gouqiziye)

- 10g dried mushrooms (shiitake or maitake)

- 5g dried tangerine peel (chen pi)

- 10g ginger slices

- 10g rock sugar or honey

- 1 liter of water

Preparation:

1. Begin by cleaning the pork ribs and cutting them into manageable pieces.

2. Rinse the astragalus root, goji berries, Chinese yam, red dates, dried dates, and dried mushrooms thoroughly.

3. Soak the dried mushrooms in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate them.

4. Remove the stems from the goji berries and the seeds from the red dates.

5. In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil.

6. Add the pork ribs, astragalus root, goji berries, Chinese yam, red dates, dried dates, dried mushrooms, ginger slices, and dried tangerine peel to the boiling water.

7. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot.

8. Let the soup cook for about 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well blended.

9. Add rock sugar or honey to taste and serve warm.

Health Benefits:

The Qi and Blood Nourishment Braised Pork Rib Soup is a well-rounded recipe that offers several health benefits, particularly for those recovering from surgery:

1. Astragalus Root (Huangqi): This herb is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help improve overall energy levels.

2. Goji Berries (Gouqizi): Rich in antioxidants, goji berries can support the immune system and promote overall health.

3. Chinese Yam (Shan Yao): This root is used in TCM to nourish the spleen and kidneys, and can help strengthen the body's defenses.

4. Red Dates (Hong Shi): These dates are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and are believed to help improve blood circulation.

5. Dried Mushrooms (Shiitake or Maitake): These mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting properties and can help reduce inflammation.

6. Ginger Slices: Ginger is a warming spice that can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.

By incorporating the Qi and Blood Nourishment Braised Pork Rib Soup into your post-operative diet, you can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to recover more quickly. Remember, this soup is just one part of a holistic approach to recovery, and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or treatment plan.