Tag: tcm diet

chinese medicine, Five Elements, TCM Foods

Harvesting Health: Chinese Medicine Soup Recipe for the Abundant Season

Cindy Dowsett

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the arrival of the harvest season brings with it an abundance of fresh produce. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is a time to align our diets with the changing energies of nature. We can harness the nourishing qualities of the season with a wholesome TCM-inspired soup recipe that promotes balance and well-being. Join us on a journey into the heart of harvest season and discover a recipe that will delight your taste buds while supporting your health.

Harvest Season in Traditional Chinese Medicine:

In TCM, the seasons are closely linked to our health, and each season is associated with specific elements, energies, and organ systems. The harvest season aligns with the Metal element and is connected to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians. To stay in harmony with this season, we should focus on foods that support these organs and elements.

Ingredients for Harvest Season Soup:

1. Butternut Squash:

  • Butternut squash, with its sweet and slightly nutty flavor, is a quintessential harvest vegetable.
  • It supports the Spleen and Stomach meridians and provides nourishment for the Lung and Large Intestine organs.

2. Carrots:

  • Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and add a subtle sweetness to the soup.
  • They help tonify the Spleen and Stomach and support overall digestion.

3. Ginger:

  • Ginger adds warmth and a gentle kick to the recipe.
  • It aids digestion and harmonizes the flavors of the dish.

4. Scallions:

  • Scallions, with their pungent flavor, add depth and complexity to the soup.
  • They support the Lung meridian and assist in dispersing external pathogens.

5. Shiitake Mushrooms:

  • Shiitake mushrooms contribute a savory umami flavor and are known for their immune-boosting properties.
  • They are beneficial for the Lung meridian and overall health.

6. Chicken or Vegetable Broth:

  • Choose either chicken or vegetable broth based on your dietary preference.

Chinese Medicine Harvest Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
  • 4 scallions, chopped
  • 6-8 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil or broth (for a vegan option) over medium heat.
  2. Add the scallions and ginger and sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the butternut squash and carrots and sauté for about 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, which usually takes 20-25 minutes.
  5. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the nourishing harvest soup hot, garnished with extra scallions if desired.

Conclusion: Embrace the energy of the harvest season by savoring this delicious and wholesome Chinese Medicine-inspired soup. With ingredients that align with the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, you not only enjoy the flavors of the season but also support your overall well-being. Let your kitchen become your healing sanctuary, and relish the goodness of the abundant season in every comforting spoonful of this nourishing soup.

Five Elements, TCM Foods

Harvesting Wellness: Nourishing Chinese Medicine Foods for the Fall Season

Cindy Dowsett

As the leaves change color and the air becomes crisp, the fall season brings its unique energy and opportunities for nourishing our bodies in harmony with the principles of Chinese medicine. In this blog post, we’ll explore the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and discover the wholesome foods that can help us stay balanced and vibrant during the autumn months.

Understanding the Fall Season in Chinese Medicine: In TCM, each season is associated with specific elements, energies, and organ systems. The fall season aligns with the Metal element, which encompasses the Lung and Large Intestine organ systems. As nature prepares for winter’s rest, our bodies also undergo shifts that make this season an ideal time for certain dietary choices.

Nourishing Foods for Fall:

1. Root Vegetables: Fall is the season of grounding, and root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets are abundant. These vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as beta-carotene and fiber, which support the Lung and Large Intestine meridians.

2. Pears: Pears are not only delicious but also highly beneficial for the respiratory system, making them an excellent choice for fall. They help moisten the Lungs and relieve dryness, which can be especially beneficial in dryer climates.

3. Apples: Apples are a fall favorite that aids digestion and supports the Large Intestine. Their fiber content can help regulate bowel movements, promoting a healthy gut.

4. Nuts and Seeds: Nuts like almonds and seeds such as pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are nourishing, offering healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals. These foods support the body’s energy and strengthen the Lung function.

5. Mushrooms: Fall is the season of mushrooms, and varieties like shiitake and maitake offer immune-boosting properties. They help protect the respiratory system and provide valuable nutrients.

6. Ginger and Garlic: Incorporate warming and pungent spices like ginger and garlic into your meals. These ingredients can help protect against colds and improve circulation.

Cooking Methods: In Chinese medicine, the cooking method matters just as much as the ingredients. During the fall season, consider these methods to enhance your dishes:

1. Slow Cooking: Slow-cooked stews and soups help retain the nourishing qualities of ingredients and are ideal for fall.

2. Steaming: Steaming vegetables preserves their natural flavors and nutritional value.

3. Roasting: Roasting root vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a comforting fall side dish.

Balancing Yin and Yang: Chinese medicine emphasizes the balance of Yin and Yang energies in the body. In the fall, it’s essential to support the Yin aspect, which can be depleted by dry, cooler weather. Incorporating moistening foods like pears, apples, and mushrooms helps maintain this balance.

Conclusion: As we transition into the autumn season, embracing the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine can help us stay grounded, nourished, and in harmony with the changing energies. By choosing seasonal, nourishing foods and cooking methods that support the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, we can boost our well-being and thrive during this transformative time of year. So, head to your local farmers’ market, gather the fall harvest, and savor the delicious and healthful flavors of the season.