Revitalize Your Stomach and Spleen with This Healing Warming Soup Recipe

In the pursuit of health and vitality, nourishing the stomach and spleen is a crucial aspect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The stomach and spleen are the foundation of our digestive system and play a vital role in our overall well-being. To support their functions, we have compiled a warming and replenishing soup recipe that will help you revitalize your stomach and spleen. Let's delve into the details of this nourishing soup and learn how to prepare it.

Ingredients:

1. Pork knuckle - 300g

2. Chinese yam - 200g

3. Codfish - 150g

4. Goji berries - 20g

5. Dried dates - 10 pieces

6. Astragalus root - 10g

7. Ginger - 1 piece (about 20g)

8. Rock sugar - to taste

9. Water - 1.5 liters

10. Salt - to taste

Preparation:

1. Begin by cleaning the pork knuckle and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Parboil the pork knuckle in boiling water for about 5 minutes to remove any impurities. Drain and set aside.

2. Peel the Chinese yam and cut it into thick slices. Rinse the codfish and cut it into chunks.

3. Soak the goji berries and dried dates in warm water for about 15 minutes to rehydrate them.

4. Peel and slice the ginger into thin slices.

5. Place the parboiled pork knuckle, Chinese yam, codfish, goji berries, dried dates, astragalus root, and ginger in a large pot.

6. Add 1.5 liters of water to the pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.

7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

8. After 1 hour, add the rock sugar to taste and continue simmering for another 30 minutes.

9. Finally, taste the soup for seasoning and add salt if needed. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool down before serving.

Health Benefits:

This warming and replenishing soup is perfect for nourishing the stomach and spleen, and here are some of its health benefits:

- Improves Digestion: The combination of pork knuckle, codfish, and Chinese yam provides a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that can help improve digestion and enhance the absorption of nutrients.

- Boosts Immune System: Astragalus root, a well-known immune-boosting herb in TCM, can help strengthen your immune system and protect you from illnesses.

- Promotes Energy: Goji berries and dried dates are both high in natural sugars and can provide a quick energy boost. They also help in replenishing your body's energy reserves.

- Relieves Stress: Ginger, a natural anti-inflammatory, can help alleviate stress and improve your overall mood.

- Improves Sleep: Dried dates and goji berries are known to have calming effects on the mind, which can promote better sleep.

Enjoy this soothing and replenishing soup to nourish your stomach and spleen. Remember, a healthy gut leads to a healthy life!