Warm Up Your Winter with This Invigorating Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup Recipe!

As the temperatures drop and winter chills seep into our homes, it's time to embrace the warmth of the season with a traditional and healing Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup. This warming dish not only combats the cold weather but also helps to expel excess moisture from the body, making it the perfect winter staple. Let's dive into the recipe and discover how to prepare this comforting and beneficial soup.

Introduction

Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup, also known as Qi Huo Tang in Chinese, is a classic remedy that has been passed down through generations. It's believed to aid in the prevention and treatment of colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. The soup is made with a combination of herbs, spices, and ingredients that work together to nourish the body and provide relief from the cold.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)

- 4 slices of ginger

- 1 piece of Chinese rhubarb (Da Huang)

- 10 cloves of garlic

- 1 tablespoon of dried tangerine peel (Chen Pi)

- 1 tablespoon of astragalus root (Huang Qi)

- 1 teaspoon of white pepper

- 1 teaspoon of star anise (Bai Zi Ren)

- 10 cups of water

- Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. Rinse it under cold water and remove any excess fat or feathers. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add the chicken, ginger slices, and garlic cloves to the pot. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

3. While the chicken is simmering, prepare the other ingredients. Cut the Chinese rhubarb into small pieces, and chop the dried tangerine peel into thin strips.

4. After the chicken has simmered for 30 minutes, remove it from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cool, remove the skin and bones from the chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

5. Return the chicken meat to the pot, along with the rhubarb, dried tangerine peel, astragalus root, white pepper, and star anise. Add the salt to taste.

6. Bring the pot back to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well-cooked.

7. Once the soup has finished simmering, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup hot, garnished with fresh green onions or cilantro.

Health Benefits

This Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup offers several health benefits, making it a perfect winter warmer:

- Expels Moisture: The ingredients in this soup help to eliminate excess moisture from the body, which can be especially helpful for those who suffer from colds, flu, and other respiratory conditions.

- Boosts Immunity: The combination of herbs and spices in the soup can help to strengthen the immune system, providing protection against colds and flu during the winter months.

- Warms the Body: The soup's warm, comforting nature can help to ease the symptoms of cold weather and keep your body cozy during the chilliest months.

- Rich in Nutrients: The chicken and other ingredients provide essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

The Moisture-Expelling and Cold-Driving Soup is a timeless winter wonder that promises to keep you warm, healthy, and happy during the coldest months of the year. With its blend of flavorful ingredients and health benefits, this soup is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. So, why not try making this delightful soup this winter and experience the warmth it brings to your body and soul?