Harvest Season Elixir Nourishing Traditional Chinese Medicine Soup in the Deep Autumn

As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, the deep autumn season heralds a time of transformation and renewal. It is a period when nature's bounty is at its peak, and the body and mind are in need of replenishment. In this article, we delve into the art of crafting a traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) soup, known as the Harvest Season Elixir, to help you embrace the essence of the season and bolster your well-being.

In TCM, autumn is associated with the lung and large intestine, organs that are crucial for the exchange of oxygen and nutrients, as well as the elimination of waste. The cool and dry weather of autumn can lead to lung dryness, which may manifest as a cough, dry skin, and a lack of energy. To counteract these imbalances, a nourishing and warming soup is just the ticket.

The Harvest Season Elixir is a symphony of flavors and medicinal properties, thoughtfully blended to support lung health, enhance immunity, and invigorate the body. Here's a recipe to guide you through the process of creating this autumnal treasure:

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken or 2 to 3 chicken thighs, bones included

- 1 to 2 pieces of ginger, sliced

- 1 to 2 pieces of goji berries (about 20-30 goji berries)

- 1 tablespoon of Astragalus Root (Huang Qi)

- 1 tablespoon of Codonopsis Root (Dang Shen)

- 1 tablespoon of Chinese dates (about 10-12 dates)

- 5 to 6 slices of Chinese yam (Shanyao)

- 5 to 6 slices of jujube (Zao Shu)

- 1 tablespoon of Dried Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi)

- 1 teaspoon of Licorice Root (Gan Cao)

- 10 cups of water

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by washing the chicken thoroughly and placing it in a large pot. Add the sliced ginger, goji berries, and Astragalus and Codonopsis roots to the pot.

2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer the chicken over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Skim any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, add the Chinese dates, yam, jujube, Dried Tangerine Peel, and Licorice Root. Continue to simmer for another hour, or until the yam is tender and the flavors have melded together.

4. Season the soup with salt to taste. You can also add a pinch of white pepper if desired.

5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove the bones and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

6. Return the chicken to the pot and gently reheat the soup. Serve hot, sipping it slowly to savor the rich flavors and health benefits.

Health Benefits:

- Goji Berries: Known for their immune-boosting properties, goji berries are rich in antioxidants and are believed to enhance longevity.

- Astragalus Root: This herb strengthens the immune system and is thought to be beneficial for respiratory health.

- Codonopsis Root: Often referred to as the great restorer, this root is used to boost energy and improve overall well-being.

- Chinese Dates: High in vitamins and minerals, these dates are a natural sweetener and are believed to nourish the heart and blood.

- Chinese Yam: A staple in TCM, yam is used to nourish the lungs and kidneys and to strengthen the body's defenses against colds and flu.

By preparing and enjoying the Harvest Season Elixir, you not only treat yourself to a warm, comforting meal but also engage in a time-honored tradition that connects you with the natural world and the wisdom of ancient healing practices. Embrace the coolness of the deep autumn and let this elixir nurture your body and soul.