Chinese Date Herbal Dessert
While we’re trying to keep our bodies, and especially our lungs, healthy throughout the challenges of this season’s weather, it’s important to treat ourselves to a sweet treat that we enjoy… but aren’t all treats ‘unhealthy?!’ No!
🌿 With this Chinese date herbal dessert, we can satisfy that sweet tooth craving while also nourishing our Qi, Blood, and organs.🍲
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have significantly impacted air quality, leading to respiratory issues for many residents. Ingredients like American Ginseng, Longan, Ginger, and Goji Berries are particularly beneficial for the ‘Shen’ (spirit/mind) and lung health as they help to boost immunity, open up the chest, reduce fatigue, and support respiratory function during these hard times, or, for day-to-day struggles.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, the ingredients in this recipe can help support lung health by nourishing Qi (vital energy) and Blood, clearing heat and phlegm, and strengthening the immune system. Incorporating these ingredients and recipes into your diet can help keep your body up with the season and some of the unpleasant issues that can come with it.
Chinese Red Dates/Jujube (Hong Zao)
In TCM, these dates are loved for their ability to tonify the Qi and spleen, and nourish the blood which are essential for lung function and overall harmony. Additionally, they help to calm the Shen (spirit), offering a soothing effect that can ease anxiety and promote relaxation.
Chinese Yam (Huai Shan)
Known for its ability to nourish the Lung Qi and Yin, Chinese Yam supports the health by tonifying the Qi, helping to open up the chest, making breathing smoother and more efficient, especially during the dry winter months or with poor air quality .
Longan (Gui Yuan)
This fruit that can usually be eaten as a snack, is great in TCM recipes and formulas for their ability to nourish the Blood and calm the spirit. Longan can be especially beneficial for individuals experiencing mental fatigue or stress, providing a gentle calming effect while supporting healthy lung function.
American Ginseng
Though we have many types of powerful ginsengs, American Ginseng is used for its ability to tonify Qi, nourish the Yin, and generate fluids. Its cooling properties make it particularly effective in relieving stress and anxiety, helping to create a calm and clear chest, free from the tightness that stress can cause. It is also anti-inflammatory making it a great additional to promote overall well-being.
Goji Berries (Gou Gi Zi)
These red ‘superfood’ berries are known for their ability to nourish the Liver and Kidneys. By supporting these vital organs, Goji Berries help in maintaining vitality, ensuring that our essence is boosted. They also have a reputation for brightening the eyes, which can be a bonus!
Please enjoy this recipe and know you’re fueling your body in a delicious way! 🍲
INGREDIENTS
8 c Water
50 g Chinese Red Dates/Jujube (Hong Zao)
20 g Chinese Yam (Huai Shan)
25 g Longan (Gui Yuan)
10 g American Ginseng
5-10 Figs (Dry or Fresh)
10 g Goji Berries (Gou Gi Zi)
1 medium piece Ginger, sliced thinly (Sheng Jiang)
Rock Sugar, to taste (Bing Tang)
Pinch of Salt
INSTRUCTIONS
*If you use any dried ingredients, soak in room-temperature water for 30 minutes
Place water, red dates, yam, longan, American ginseng, figs, and ginger in a pot and bring to a boil on medium-high.
Once brought to a rolling boil, lower to medium-low, cover and let simmer until the ingredients are soft, but not mushy (~20-30 minutes).
Add goji berries, rock sugar, and salt to taste. Let simmer covered for 15 more minutes.
Turn off the heat, let sit covered for 15 minutes and serve warm!
photo and recipe inspiration to Daily Cooking Quest
