Nourish
by Alex Herman, Citizen student and resident Acupuncturist + Dr. of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Winter is my favorite season. I love it. Yes, I grew up skiing, but it would be my favorite even if I didn’t. I feel akin to the energy of winter. The quiet, coziness of it. The internal, reflective nature of it, and the generally more relaxed attitude of society juxtaposed to the excitement of summer. I love those days where the sun is shining and the ground is covered in snow, they’re the most beautiful and feel so crisp and clean. I love having a coat with pockets, so I don’t have to think about bringing a purse, and I love my mom’s butternut squash soup.
Eating according to the season is essential to health, harmony and comfort. Nature guides us in the right direction by producing fruits and vegetables at certain times of year that have properties that coincide with what we need and crave each season. Choosing recipes that utilize local, seasonal foods almost guarantees medicinal benefits.
The warming nature of butternut squash, along with the leeks and onions, makes this soup ideal for cold weather. The squash helps to nourish the spleen and stomach, which in Chinese Medicine, are in charge of digestion and the transformation of food into nutrients. Leeks strengthen bones and promote circulation, while the oats restore the nervous system and calm the mind.
Everything we need for a healthy, comfortable, winter in one delicious bowl!
Hope you love it as much as I do.
Butternut Squash Soup
Ingredients:
4 Leeks (clean and chop)
1 Large Onion (chopped)
4 TBSP butter/ghee
5 bags cubed butternut squash
½ C Oats
10 C chicken or vegetable broth
¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
Directions:
Combine butter leeks and onions in large pot, sauté until transparent.
Add squash, broth, oats and cayenne pepper, bring to a boil.
Turn down heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Puree until smooth.
What feels nourishing to you this winter season? Share in the comments below.
