Codonopsis steamed chicken with garlic spinach
Chicken steamed with codonopsis and red dates into sweet, clear juices, served with a quick plate of garlicky spinach.
- 35 min
- Serves 3
- Steam
- Easy
Why it suits you: The sensitive (allergic) constitution is easily upset by the seasons, and Qingming brings pollen and damp, so strengthening the lungs, spleen and defensive qi helps. Codonopsis boosts qi, chicken nourishes gently, spinach feeds the blood, and nothing here is a common allergen.
Method
Prep 15 min · Cook 20 min- 1Soak the codonopsis for 15 minutes. Marinate the chicken with the soy sauce, cornflour, ginger and a little oil for 15 minutes.
- 2Spread the chicken on a plate, top with the codonopsis and red dates and steam over boiling water on high heat for 15 minutes until cooked.
- 3Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds and drain. Heat the oil, fry the garlic until fragrant, add the spinach, stir-fry quickly and season with salt.
- 4Serve the chicken with its juices alongside the spinach and rice.
Chef's tips
- Spread the chicken out in one layer so it cooks evenly.
The TCM view
Codonopsis is sweet and neutral, boosting qi and strengthening the spleen and lungs. Chicken is sweet and warm, warming the middle and replenishing essence. Red dates are sweet and warm, nourishing blood and calming the mind. Spinach is sweet and cool, nourishing blood and moistening. Firming defensive qi alongside the blood helps sensitive types build resilience.
