How to Prepare the EarthCooling and SpleenNourishing Porridge for Heat Reduction and Stomach Care
In the bustling life of today, it's easy for us to become overwhelmed by the pressures of work and stress, leading to imbalances in our body. One common problem is the accumulation of internal heat, which can affect the spleen and stomach, causing discomfort and other health issues. To address this, the Earth-Cooling and Spleen-Nourishing Porridge is a traditional Chinese medicine recipe that aims to reduce internal heat and strengthen the spleen and stomach. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful and healthful porridge.
Ingredients:
- 50g of millet (green or white)
- 50g of red beans
- 50g of sweet potato
- 10g of goji berries
- 5g of dried dates
- 5g of Chinese yam
- 1 liter of water
- A pinch of rock sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the millet, red beans, and sweet potato thoroughly under running water. Soak the goji berries, dried dates, and Chinese yam in water for about 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Sweet Potato: Peel the sweet potato and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the sweet potato pieces to a pot and cook them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sweet potato from the water and set it aside.
3. Soak the Millet and Red Beans: Place the millet and red beans in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for about 1 hour to soften the grains.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Add the soaked millet, red beans, goji berries, dried dates, and Chinese yam to the pot with the sweet potato. Fill the pot with 1 liter of water, ensuring that all the ingredients are submerged.
5. Simmer the Porridge: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The porridge should become thick and creamy as it cooks.
6. Add Rock Sugar: If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a pinch of rock sugar towards the end of the cooking process. Stir the porridge well to dissolve the sugar.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the porridge has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat and let it cool down slightly. Serve the Earth-Cooling and Spleen-Nourishing Porridge warm, either as a meal or a healthy snack.
Health Benefits:
The Earth-Cooling and Spleen-Nourishing Porridge is packed with health benefits, making it a perfect addition to your diet:
- Heat Reduction: The porridge helps to reduce internal heat, which can alleviate symptoms like redness, swelling, and discomfort.
- Spleen and Stomach Support: Millet, red beans, and sweet potato are known for their spleen-nourishing properties, which can improve digestion and overall stomach health.
- Nutrient-Rich: Goji berries, dried dates, and Chinese yam provide a wealth of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Digest: This porridge is gentle on the stomach, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive digestion or those looking to improve their gut health.
Incorporating the Earth-Cooling and Spleen-Nourishing Porridge into your diet can help maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by internal heat or looking to strengthen your spleen and stomach, give this delightful porridge a try!