Rain Water · Dinner · Sensitive (Allergic)
Braised chicken with lotus seeds & pumpkin
Floury lotus seeds and sweet pumpkin gently braised with chicken — simply seasoned, mild and easy on sensitive systems.
- 50 min
- Serves 3
- Braise
- Easy
WarmingStrengthens digestion & qiSupports defensive qi
Why it suits you: Sensitive types react easily, so meals should be simple and gentle. Rain Water is damp and changeable; lotus seeds and pumpkin strengthen digestion and chicken builds qi to support your defences — all while avoiding common allergens.
Method
Prep 15 min · Cook 35 min- 1Soak the lotus seeds for 1 hour (or from the morning). Deseed the pumpkin and cut into large chunks, skin on.
- 2Cut the chicken into pieces, mix with a little of the salt and the cornflour, and leave for 10 minutes.
- 3Heat the oil, fry the ginger until fragrant and brown the chicken lightly on both sides, then add the lotus seeds, red dates and 300 ml water.
- 4Bring to the boil, cover and braise on low heat for 15 minutes. Add the pumpkin and braise for 10–12 minutes more, until tender and the sauce has reduced a little.
- 5Season with the remaining salt. Meanwhile, blanch the pak choi for 1–2 minutes and serve with rice.
Chef's tips
- No soy sauce or wine needed — salt and ginger are enough, ideal for family members with sensitivities.
- Buy lotus seeds with the germ already removed so they don't taste bitter; otherwise push the germ out with a toothpick.
The TCM view
Lotus seed is sweet, astringent and neutral; it supports the spleen and calms the heart. Pumpkin is sweet and warm and builds middle qi; chicken and red dates are sweet and warm and build qi; a little ginger settles the stomach. Strong digestion underpins defensive qi. Mild overall, with no seafood, nuts or soy sauce.
