Recipes for the Stomach

The Stomach is a pivot because it is in the mid-region of the body. In TCM, the central positioning of the Stomach also affects the psyche. The Stomach is responsible for centering oneself in life. Hence, a weak Stomach produces a worrisome individual and vice-versa. The Stomach is most sensitive to excess Dampness. Dampness that stays for a long time in the Stomach produces Phlegm that in turn creates symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, body heaviness, diarrhea and vomiting. Many types of fishes are conducive to the stomach. They heal ulcers, reduce mucus and promote Qi.

Note: All recipes serve 2

	Shiitake Mushrooms Soup
	Ingredients: American Ginseng 10g Chinese Wolfberry 20g Red Dates 10 pieces (without pits) Shiitake Mushrooms 75g (dried) Chicken 250g Fresh Ginger 4 pieces Roasted Pork/ Ham 50g Green Onion 2 strips Salt A little Water 6 rice bowls (1200ml) Instructions: 1. Cut the chicken and roasted pork into bite size pieces and scald them with hot water. Scoop out. 2. Soak the mushrooms with hot water until they expand and cut off the hard stalks. 3. Put all ingredients into a pot and simmer for 1 hour. 4. Add salt to taste. Comments: 1. Shiitake Mushroom is an excellent food to incorporate into a recuperative diet, especially for post-surgery. It is rich in absorbable nutrients and it helps the system to detoxify and ensure normal return of appetite. 2. Long term consumption of this recipe will help normalize cholesterol level and blood pressure. 3. For vegetarian, Shiitake Mushroom is an important dietary supplement to ensure adequate nutrients.

1. Mr Lee Jok Keng for concepts, general editing and comments on the recipes.
2. Mr Jack Shea of Shea Studio for food photography.