Delicious Shaanxi Dishes for Spleen and Stomach Health How to Cook Them Perfectly

In the heart of China, Shaanxi Province offers a rich culinary tradition that not only satisfies the taste buds but also promotes health, especially for the spleen and stomach. These regional dishes, often hearty and robust, are perfect for those looking to nurture their digestive system. Here's how to cook Shaanxi dishes that are not only delicious but also beneficial for spleen and stomach health.

1. Biangbiang Noodles: A Spleen and Stomach Staple

Biangbiang noodles are a classic Shaanxi dish that's both filling and easy on the stomach. Made with wheat flour and water, these noodles are typically served with a rich sauce made from minced pork, scallions, and chili oil.

How to Make Biangbiang Noodles:

- Ingredients: 300g wheat flour, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup water, minced pork, scallions, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chili oil.

- Instructions:

1. Mix flour, eggs, and water to form a dough.

2. Knead the dough until smooth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out flat.

4. Cook the noodles in boiling water until al dente.

5. In a separate pan, sauté minced pork, scallions, and garlic until the pork is cooked through.

6. Mix in soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil to create the sauce.

7. Serve the noodles with the sauce on top.

2. Rousong Shou: A Comforting Stomach Soother

Rousong shou, or braised pork feet, is a traditional Shaanxi dish known for its tender and gelatinous texture. It is a warming dish that is believed to help strengthen the spleen and stomach.

How to Make Rousong Shou:

- Ingredients: Pork feet, carrots, radishes, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

- Instructions:

1. Clean the pork feet and boil them in water with ginger and star anise for about an hour.

2. Add carrots, radishes, and cinnamon to the pot and continue boiling until the meat is tender.

3. Add soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar to taste.

4. Simmer for another hour or until the meat becomes gelatinous.

5. Serve warm with rice or alone as a soothing meal.

3. Shaanxi Steamed Pork Ribs: A Spleen and Stomach Delight

Shaanxi steamed pork ribs are another dish that's beneficial for spleen and stomach health. The meat is tender and infused with the flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.

How to Make Shaanxi Steamed Pork Ribs:

- Ingredients: Pork ribs, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

- Instructions:

1. Marinate the pork ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar for at least 2 hours.

2. Steam the ribs with sliced garlic and ginger for about 1 hour.

3. Baste the ribs with a bit of the marinade and continue steaming for another 30 minutes.

4. Remove from the steamer and let cool slightly before serving.

4. Shaanxi Braised Chicken: A Spleen and Stomach Supporter

Braised chicken in Shaanxi cuisine is often seasoned with local herbs and spices, making it a flavorful and healthful option for those looking to support their spleen and stomach.

How to Make Shaanxi Braised Chicken:

- Ingredients: Chicken, carrots, radishes, ginger, scallions, star anise, cinnamon, soy sauce, and sugar.

- Instructions:

1. Clean the chicken and cut into pieces.

2. Sauté the chicken pieces with ginger and scallions until the chicken is browned.

3. Add carrots, radishes, star anise, cinnamon, soy sauce, and sugar to the pot.

4. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

By incorporating these traditional Shaanxi dishes into your diet, you can enjoy the rich flavors of the region while also promoting the health of your spleen and stomach. Remember, the key to these dishes is not just the ingredients but also the cooking techniques, which aim to preserve the nutrients and make the food as digestible as possible. Bon appétit!