Damp-Removing and Warm-Stomach Health Soup
This spring, thunder was absent during Awakening of Insects, and only a few muffled rumbles were heard during Spring Equinox, indicating frequent clashes between cold and warm air masses. This means prolonged periods of fluctuating temperatures and heavy humidity. Such weather makes people prone to neck and back pain, limb numbness, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis or similar chronic conditions. Additionally, these inconsistent temperatures often lead to digestive issues, causing gastric problems to flare up easily. This article introduces two home-based health soups that offer auxiliary therapeutic effects.
Silk Tree Branch and Fresh Chicken Soup
Has a slightly herbal aroma with a fresh, mild taste, beneficial for nourishing essence, dispelling wind-dampness, and unblocking joints.
Ingredients: 40 grams of winter silk tree branches, 1 whole chicken, 3 slices of ginger.
Preparation: Soak and rinse silk tree branches. Clean the chicken, remove internal organs and tail. Place all ingredients including ginger into a clay pot, add 3 liters (about 12 bowls) of water, bring to boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat for 3 hours. Season with appropriate salt and sesame oil. Serves 3–4 people.
White Pepper Pork Stomach Soup
Rich aroma, effective in dispelling cold-dampness and warming the gastrointestinal tract.
Ingredients: 15 grams of white pepper, 1 pork stomach, 3 slices of ginger.
Preparation: Wash the pork stomach thoroughly with salt or cornstarch. Crush white pepper and stuff it into the stomach, tie tightly at both ends. Place with ginger into a clay pot, add 3 liters of water, bring to boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat for 3 hours. Season with salt and sesame oil. The pork stomach can be removed, sliced, and served with soy sauce. Serves 3–4 people.