Revitalize Your Health with Grandma's Time-Tested Blood and Qi-Boosting Soup Recipe

In the realm of traditional Chinese medicine, the power of food as medicine is deeply respected. One such culinary creation that has stood the test of time is Grandma's Blood and Qi-Boosting Soup, also known as Xue Qi Tang. This savory broth is a treasure trove of nutrients, designed to replenish the body's blood and vital energy, or Qi, during the menstrual cycle and beyond. Let's delve into the making of this therapeutic soup that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (preferably organic)

- 1 handful of goji berries

- 1 handful of red dates (dried)

- 1 handful of Chinese yam (shredded)

- 1/2 cup of ginseng slices

- 10 slices of dried Chinese angelica root (dang gui)

- 10 slices of dried rehmannia root (shu di huang)

- 1/2 cup of wolfberries (goji berries)

- 1/2 cup of dried longan (dragon eye fruit)

- 1 teaspoon of rock sugar (optional)

- 1 tablespoon of cooking wine

- 10 cups of water

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and remove any feathers or impurities. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

2. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes to remove any impurities. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the cooking wine, rock sugar, goji berries, red dates, ginseng slices, Chinese angelica root, and dried rehmannia root. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Add the cleaned chicken pieces back to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid.

5. Let the soup simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender. Add the shredded Chinese yam and dried longan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, if necessary.

7. Once the soup has reached the desired consistency and flavor, it's ready to be served. This blood and Qi-boosting soup can be enjoyed warm, either as a meal or as a soothing drink before bed.

Benefits of Grandma's Blood and Qi-Boosting Soup:

- Boosts Blood: The combination of goji berries, red dates, and dried Chinese angelica root helps to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply, which is essential during the menstrual cycle.

- Enhances Qi: Ginseng and goji berries are well-known for their ability to boost the body's vital energy, making the soup a great tonic for those feeling fatigued or rundown.

- Improves Digestion: The addition of Chinese yam and longan helps to improve digestion and promotes overall gut health.

- Relieves Menstrual Pain: Dried rehmannia root and Chinese angelica root have been used traditionally to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.

Grandma's Blood and Qi-Boosting Soup is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a testament to the power of nature's ingredients to heal and nourish the body. By incorporating this traditional recipe into your diet, you can enjoy the benefits of ancient wisdom and support your body's natural healing processes.