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PANguin

Spring · from 4 Feb

Start of Spring

立春

Nourish Liver Yang, protect against wind-cold.

Next: Rain Water on 18 Feb — 14 days

Tailor to a constitution

Red date soy milk with steamed sweet potato
Start of Spring · Breakfast · Qi Deficiency

Red date soy milk with steamed sweet potato

Hot soy milk simmered with red dates, with a plate of floury steamed sweet potato: simple, filling and energising.

  • 25 min
  • Serves 2
  • Steam
  • Easy
WarmingReplenishes qiStrengthens the spleen

Why it suits you: Qi Deficiency brings tiredness and a weak appetite, and the Start of Spring is still cold, so breakfast should be warm and easy to digest. Red dates replenish qi and sweet potato strengthens the spleen.

Method

Prep 5 min · Cook 20 min
  1. 1Scrub the sweet potatoes, cut into large chunks with the skin on and steam over high heat for 20 minutes until soft.
  2. 2Meanwhile simmer the soy milk with the red dates for 10 minutes without letting it boil over; sweeten lightly if you like.
  3. 3Serve the hot soy milk with the sweet potato.

Cautions

  • Sweet potato can cause wind; if you get acid reflux, keep to one at a time.

The TCM view

Red dates are sweet and warm, replenishing qi, nourishing blood and calming the mind. Sweet potato is sweet and neutral, strengthening the spleen and easing the bowels; soy milk is sweet and neutral and restores strength. Sweet flavours nourish the spleen, as spring asks.

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Seasonal principle

Spring is the time of the Liver. Focus on gentle movement and eating foods that help the Liver Qi rise. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can stagnate Qi. It is important to dress warmly to protect against the lingering winter cold, especially around the neck and joints. Engage in light stretching exercises to promote the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body.

In season now

In season around Start of Spring: Chives, Coriander, Ginger, Dates, Honey

Tap an ingredient for its nature, uses and nutrition.

Qi Deficiency

Low energy, tires easily and catches colds

Enjoy: Chinese yam · Millet and pumpkin · Red dates · Chicken and beef · Shiitake and soybeans

Go easy: Raw, cold food and iced drinks · Crash dieting · Greasy, heavy meals

Not sure of your constitution?

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Based on traditional Chinese medicine for general wellness education — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, are severe or unusual, please see a doctor or registered Chinese medicine practitioner.