Soothing Your Stomach and Nourishing Your Lungs A Culinary Journey with Traditional Chinese Healing Foods

In the heart of traditional Chinese cuisine, there lies a treasure trove of culinary delights designed not only to satisfy the palate but also to nurture and heal the body. Among these, dishes that aim to soothe the stomach and nourish the lungs hold a special place. These recipes have been passed down through generations, each one a testament to the harmony between food and health. Let's embark on a culinary journey to explore some of the most revered dishes that offer both taste and therapeutic benefits.

1. Chicken Soup with Astragalus and Goji Berries

Chicken soup, a staple in many cultures, takes on a medicinal twist when prepared with astragalus and goji berries. Astragalus, known as huang qi in Chinese, is a powerful adaptogen that strengthens the immune system. Goji berries, or gou qi zi, are renowned for their ability to nourish the liver and kidneys. This soup is a comforting and replenishing meal, especially during the cold months when the lungs are most vulnerable.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole organic chicken

- 10-15 slices of astragalus root

- 50 goji berries

- 10 slices of ginger

- Salt to taste

- Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation:

1. Wash the chicken and place it in a large pot with water.

2. Add astragalus slices, goji berries, ginger, and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours.

4. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.

2. Braised Pork with Chinese Dates and Licorice

Braised pork with Chinese dates and licorice is another classic dish that combines savory flavors with healing properties. Chinese dates, or Shan Zao, are a staple in Chinese medicine, known for their ability to nourish the heart and calm the mind. Licorice, or Gan Cao, is used to harmonize flavors and support the body's natural healing processes.

Ingredients:

- 500g pork belly, sliced

- 10-15 Chinese dates

- 5-10 slices of licorice root

- 2-3 slices of ginger

- 1 cup of soy sauce

- 1/2 cup of cooking wine

- 1 teaspoon of sugar

- Water to cover

Preparation:

1. In a large pot, combine pork slices, dates, licorice, ginger, soy sauce, cooking wine, sugar, and water.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours.

3. Serve warm, either alone or over steamed rice.

3. Steamed Sea Cucumber with Scallops and Astragalus

Sea cucumber, or Hai Sui, is a delicacy in Chinese cuisine, prized for its health benefits. It is often paired with scallops, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, to create a dish that is both luxurious and healing. Astragalus is added to support the immune system and enhance the dish's nourishing properties.

Ingredients:

- 1 sea cucumber, cleaned and sliced

- 200g scallops

- 10-15 slices of astragalus root

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil

- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch

- 2 tablespoons of chicken broth

Preparation:

1. Marinate the scallops with salt, sesame oil, and cornstarch for 10 minutes.

2. In a steaming basket, place the sea cucumber slices, scallops, and astragalus slices.

3. Steam for 10-15 minutes.

4. Serve with chicken broth.

Conclusion

The art of cooking in Chinese tradition is not just about creating delicious dishes but also about promoting health and well-being. By incorporating these nourishing and healing foods into your diet, you can enjoy the flavors of the East while taking care of your body's needs. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, consider not just what you're eating, but how it's nurturing your body from the inside out.