Spleen-Nourishing Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup dried mung beans: Cooling and detoxifying, they support the spleen's function.

1/2 cup pearl barley: Strengthens the spleen and promotes digestion.

1/2 cup dried red dates (jujube): Boosts energy and supports spleen health.

1/4 cup goji berries: Rich in antioxidants, supports spleen and liver.

1 medium carrot, sliced: Nourishes the spleen and stomach.

1 small sweet potato, cubed: Strengthens the spleen and helps digestion.

1 cup pumpkin, cubed: Tonyfies the spleen and regulates Qi (energy).

6 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Nourishing and easy to digest.

1-2 slices of fresh ginger: Warms the body and aids digestion.

1 tbsp soy sauce (optional): Adds flavor and aids digestion.

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Rinse the mung beans and pearl barley thoroughly. Soak them in water for about 2 hours, then drain.

Rinse and pit the dried red dates if necessary.

In a large pot, add the mung beans, pearl barley, and 6 cups of broth. Bring to a boil.

Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30 minutes.

Add the sliced carrot, sweet potato, pumpkin, and ginger to the pot.

Continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Add the Red Dates and Goji Berries:

Stir in the red dates and goji berries. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Add soy sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavours.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Enjoy the soup warm as a nourishing meal on its own, or serve it with a side of steamed rice for a more filling dish.

This soup can be consumed regularly, especially during the colder months or when feeling fatigued or sluggish.

Tips:

Mung beans and barley help detoxify and cool the body, which is beneficial for the spleen.

Red dates and goji berries provide natural sweetness and are packed with nutrients that support spleen and overall vitality.

Carrot, sweet potato, and pumpkin are easily digestible and provide natural sugars that the spleen processes for energy.

This recipe is versatile; you can add other spleen-nourishing ingredients like shiitake mushrooms or tofu for added texture and nutrients.

For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and consider adding more root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.