Boost Your Spleen and Stomach How to Make Delicious White Rice Soup

Boost Your Spleen and Stomach: How to Make Delicious White Rice Soup

In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach are considered to be the foundation of good health. White rice soup, known as baimian tang in Chinese, is a comforting and nourishing dish that is believed to help strengthen the spleen and stomach. Not only is it a soothing remedy for an upset tummy, but it's also a flavorful addition to any meal. Here's how to make delicious white rice soup that's both beneficial and satisfying.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of white rice

- 6 to 8 cups of water

- 2 to 3 slices of fresh ginger

- 1 piece of dried tangerine peel (about 1 inch)

- 1/2 cup of goji berries (optional)

- Salt to taste

- Optional: a pinch of white pepper or a few slices of scallion for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak the Rice: Begin by rinsing the white rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps the rice to cook more evenly and absorb more water, resulting in a softer texture.

2. Prepare the Ginger and Tangerine Peel: Peel the ginger and slice it into thin strips. The fresh ginger adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the soup. For the dried tangerine peel, rinse it under warm water to remove any impurities.

3. Cook the Soup: In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the soaked rice, ginger slices, and tangerine peel to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup cook for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until the rice is completely soft.

4. Add Goji Berries (Optional): If you're using goji berries, add them to the soup after the rice has been cooking for about 20 minutes. Goji berries are believed to boost energy and vitality, and they add a slightly sweet taste to the soup.

5. Season and Serve: Once the rice is soft and the soup has reached your desired consistency, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt. If you prefer a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of white pepper. For extra flavor, garnish with a few slices of scallion before serving.

6. Enjoy Your Soup: Serve the white rice soup warm, either as a meal on its own or as a side dish. The gentle, soothing nature of the soup makes it an ideal choice for those who are feeling under the weather or simply looking to nourish their body from the inside out.

Health Benefits:

- Spleen and Stomach Support: White rice is easily digestible, making it a good choice for those with spleen or stomach issues. The combination of rice and ginger is believed to help alleviate digestive discomfort and support the functions of the spleen and stomach.

- Nutritional Value: While white rice soup is not high in protein or fiber, it does provide essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The ginger and tangerine peel add their own health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

- Hydration and Comfort: The warm broth is hydrating and comforting, making it a perfect choice for cold weather or when you're feeling under the weather.

Making white rice soup is a simple yet rewarding process that can bring both comfort and health benefits to your table. Whether you're looking to soothe an upset stomach or simply want a nourishing meal, this traditional dish is a timeless favorite that's sure to satisfy.