Chinese Herbal Soup Recipe:
Nourishing Tonic Soup with Ginseng, Astragalus, and Goji Berries
Ingredients:
Chicken or Pork Bones: 1 lb (preferably organic)
Dried Ginseng Root: 1-2 pieces (Panax ginseng or American ginseng)
Dried Astragalus Root: 2-3 slices (Huang Qi)
Dried Goji Berries: 1/4 cup (Gou Qi Zi)
Chinese Red Dates (Jujube): 4-5 pieces (Da Zao)
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms: 5-6 pieces, soaked and sliced
Ginger Root: 3 slices (fresh)
Garlic Cloves: 2, crushed
Water: 8 cups
Salt: to taste
Green Onions: 2 stalks, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Soak the Dried Ingredients: Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for about 30 minutes until softened. Drain and slice. Rinse the ginseng, astragalus, goji berries, and red dates under cold water to remove any dust.
Chop the Fresh Ingredients:Slice the ginger root and crush the garlic cloves.
Blanch the Meat:
Blanching the Chicken or Pork Bones:In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the meat and blanch for 3-5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the meat under cold water.
Start the Soup:
Combine Ingredients in a Pot:In a large pot, combine the blanched meat, ginseng, astragalus, goji berries, red dates, shiitake mushrooms, ginger, garlic, and water.
Simmering the Soup:Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours. The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Season and Serve:
Season the Soup: Add salt to taste and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
SEE ALSO: How to Cook Corn Soup Chinese Style
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results:
Preparing the Herbs: Ensure that all dried herbs are rinsed to remove any dust. Soaking them is not necessary except for the shiitake mushrooms, which need to be softened before slicing.
Simmering Time: For a richer flavor, consider simmering the soup for up to 4 hours. If using a slow cooker, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Benefits of the Ingredients:
Ginseng (Panax ginseng/American ginseng): Known for its ability to boost energy levels, enhance mental clarity, and improve immune function. American ginseng is cooler in nature, making it a good choice for those who prefer a milder tonic.
Astragalus (Huang Qi): This herb is traditionally used to support the immune system and enhance vitality. It’s also believed to improve circulation and promote healing.
Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi): Rich in antioxidants, goji berries are known for their role in supporting eye health, enhancing immune function, and providing a sweet, slightly tart flavor to the soup.
Chinese Red Dates (Da Zao): Often used to nourish the blood, improve digestion, and calm the mind. They add natural sweetness to the soup.
Ginger: A warming herb that aids digestion, improves circulation, and provides a subtle spicy kick to the soup.
Common Substitutions:
Meat: You can substitute the chicken or pork bones with beef bones or go entirely vegetarian by adding tofu for protein.
Astragalus: If astragalus is unavailable, you can use Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) for a slightly different flavor and similar immune-boosting properties.
Ginseng: If you don’t have ginseng, you can use codonopsis (Dang Shen) as a milder, less expensive alternative.
Potential Side Effects and Contraindications:
Ginseng: Should be used cautiously by those with high blood pressure or during pregnancy. It’s also advisable for nursing mothers to avoid it unless guided by a healthcare professional.
Astragalus: Generally safe, but those with autoimmune conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use, as it may stimulate the immune system.
Goji Berries: May interact with blood-thinning medications, so it’s best to consult a doctor if you’re on such medication.
Variations and Options:
Herb Combinations: Experiment with adding other herbs like Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) for blood-nourishing properties or dried lotus seeds for a calming effect.
Additional Ingredients: Add vegetables like carrots, daikon radish, or lotus root for added flavor and nutritional benefits. For a heartier soup, add cooked noodles or rice.
Tips for Success:
Preparing the Herbs: Ginseng and astragalus are best used in their dried form, but fresh herbs should be washed and chopped just before use to preserve their potency.
Adjusting the Recipe: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the simmering time to 1.5 hours and increase the water by an additional 2 cups.
Storing the Soup: This soup’s flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. For freezing, cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
Chinese herbal soups have been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. These soups are often consumed for their healing properties, believed to balance the body’s energy (Qi) and promote overall well-being. Each ingredient in a Chinese herbal soup is chosen for its specific medicinal benefits, making these soups not just a meal but also a therapeutic experience. They are commonly consumed during the colder months to nourish the body, boost immunity, and maintain health.
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