Soothe the Dampness Top Soups to Brew This Autumn and Winter
As the seasons transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn and the coldness of winter, the dampness in the air can make us feel sluggish and unwell. This is due to the body accumulating excess moisture, known as 'dampness' in traditional Chinese medicine. But fear not! There are various soups that can help expel dampness and keep you feeling energetic and healthy throughout the cooler months. Here are some of the best soups to brew this autumn and winter.
1. Congee with Astragalus and Codonopsis
Congee, a rice porridge, is a classic Chinese breakfast dish that is incredibly soothing to the stomach and can help expel dampness. Astragalus and codonopsis are both Chinese herbs known for their immune-boosting and dampness-exuding properties. Simply simmer these ingredients with rice and water for an immune-boosting, dampness-relieving morning meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 tablespoons of astragalus
- 2 tablespoons of codonopsis
- Water
2. Carrot and Daikon Soup
Carrots and daikon are both vegetables that are rich in vitamins and can help expel dampness. This soup is not only delicious but also very easy to make. Simply chop the carrots and daikon, then simmer them in water until they are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 carrots
- 1 daikon
- Water
- Salt and pepper
3. Pumpkin and Ginger Soup
Pumpkin is a wonderful autumn and winter vegetable that helps to expel dampness and also warms the body. Ginger is another herb known for its dampness-relieving properties. Combine these ingredients with some chicken or vegetable broth for a comforting, dampness-soothing soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 pumpkin
- 1 inch of fresh ginger
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: a dash of nutmeg
4. Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken soup is a timeless remedy for the common cold, and it is also excellent for expelling dampness. This soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. Simply simmer the chicken and rice with your chosen vegetables in chicken or vegetable broth until everything is tender.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup of rice
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 stalks of celery
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper
5. Coconut Milk and Taro Soup
Coconut milk and taro are both excellent for expelling dampness and can be combined to make a creamy, soothing soup. This dish is perfect for a cold winter day and can be enjoyed as a meal or a side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 taro
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 4 cups of water
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: a pinch of turmeric for color and flavor
Remember that while these soups can help expel dampness, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing chronic dampness, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional. However, incorporating these soups into your diet can certainly help you feel better during the damp, cooler months. Bon appétit!
