Nourishing Kidneys and Spleen A Traditional Chinese Soup Recipe for Childrens Health

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the concept of balancing the body's Yin and Yang is paramount. One of the key focuses for children's health is to ensure that both the kidney and spleen are functioning optimally. The Kidney-Spleen Nourishing Soup is a classic TCM recipe designed to strengthen these vital organs, promote overall growth, and support the immune system. Here's a detailed look at the ingredients and preparation of this wholesome and nurturing soup.

Ingredients

- Chicken breast: 1 whole

- Goji berries: 50g

- Astragalus root: 15g

- Codonopsis root: 15g

- Chinese yam: 200g

- Dried dates: 10 pieces

- Ginseng: 5g

- Sea cucumber: 50g (optional)

- Rock sugar: to taste

Preparation

1. Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Rinse the chicken breast thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Soak the goji berries, astragalus, codonopsis, and ginseng in water for at least 30 minutes to rehydrate them. Peel and cut the Chinese yam into small pieces. Remove the seeds from the dried dates and wash them. If using sea cucumber, soak it in water for 24 hours, changing the water every 4-6 hours to remove any impurities.

2. In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces, goji berries, astragalus, codonopsis, and ginseng. Bring the water back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam that appears on the surface of the water with a spoon.

3. Let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, adding the Chinese yam after 30 minutes. The yam should be soft when done. If you're using sea cucumber, add it at this point and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.

4. Once the ingredients are cooked, add the dried dates and continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the sweetness with rock sugar if needed.

5. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool down. Strain the soup to remove the solids and serve it warm. This soup can be consumed daily, and it's best if consumed within 24 hours of preparation to ensure maximum freshness and nutritional value.

Benefits of Kidney-Spleen Nourishing Soup

The Kidney-Spleen Nourishing Soup is rich in nutrients and offers several health benefits for children, including:

- Enhancing Immunity: The combination of ingredients in this soup helps boost the immune system, making children less susceptible to common illnesses.

- Strengthening the Kidneys: The kidney is the foundation of health in TCM. This soup helps to nourish the kidneys, promoting growth, development, and overall vitality.

- Supporting the Spleen: The spleen plays a crucial role in digestion and absorption of nutrients. This soup helps to strengthen the spleen, ensuring that children receive the nutrients they need for healthy growth.

- Improving Digestion: The Chinese yam and dried dates in the soup are known for their beneficial effects on digestion, helping to alleviate constipation and improve overall digestive health.

In conclusion, the Kidney-Spleen Nourishing Soup is a valuable addition to a child's diet, offering a balance of nutrients that support their growth and well-being. By incorporating this traditional TCM recipe into their daily routine, parents can help ensure that their children enjoy a healthier and more vibrant life.