Recipe for Power Soup – Step-by-Step Guide to Boost Energy
Introduction – TCM Recipe for Power Soup
When the weather turns chilly and germs seem to float in the air, our bodies often signal that they need extra care. Instead of immediately reaching for pharmacy supplements, why not turn to the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine? From this ancient practice comes the TCM recipe for Power Soup – a nourishing broth that has been used for centuries to support Energy, boost vitality, and help the body recover more quickly from illness. Fragrant with ginger, rich in herbs, and simmered with tender chicken, this soup is more than just a meal – it’s a natural way to strengthen your whole body.
What is Power Soup and Why You Should Make It
In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), Power Soup is a broth designed to strengthen Qi, the body’s vital energy. Its base is huang qi (Astragalus root), renowned for boosting vitality, along with chicken meat, which nourishes the blood and adds strength.
Health Benefits:
- Supports the body’s natural defense mechanisms
- Warms and energizes the body
- Speeds up recovery from infections
- Aids digestion and strengthens the stomach
Ingredients for Power Soup (serves 4)
- 1 whole free-range chicken (about 1.5 kg)
- 20 g huang qi (Astragalus root – link provided below)
- 3 slices fresh ginger
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 100 g celery
- 1 leek (white part)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 black peppercorns
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley for garnish
How to Make Power Soup Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Huang Qi Broth
- In a large pot, bring 3 liters of water to a boil.
- Add huang qi and ginger slices.
- Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to extract the herbs’ beneficial properties.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
- Place the cleaned whole chicken into the huang qi broth.
- Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and garlic.
- Simmer gently for about 1.5 hours, skimming off any foam.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Season
- After an hour, add carrots, parsley root, celery, and leek.
- Towards the end, season with salt and optional soy sauce.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the chicken, cut it into pieces, and return it to the soup.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander or parsley.
Serving Tips
- Best enjoyed hot as a main dish on chilly days
- Pairs well with jasmine rice or rice noodles
- Perfect as a restorative meal after illness or intense activity
My Experiences with Power Soup in China
I first discovered Power Soup during a trip to China 30 years ago. One winter in a small tea house in Beijing, an elderly woman offered me a steaming bowl. She said, “This is not just soup – it’s medicine in a bowl.” That moment taught me that in Chinese culture, food is deeply connected to health.
The soup smelled of ginger and a slightly sweet herbal aroma I hadn’t experienced before – the huang qi, treasured locally during cold seasons. After a few spoonfuls, I felt my body warm up, and fatigue from hours of sightseeing faded. It was truly remarkable – a meal that was also a form of medicine.
During my travels in Shanghai and Chengdu, I encountered this dish repeatedly. Each family had its own twist – more ginger, longer simmering, or served with rice noodles. Everywhere, the soup’s purpose was clear: strengthen Qi and protect against illness.
A visit to friends’ home stays etched in my memory most vividly. The soup was served first, the most important part of the meal. That’s when I realized that in TCM, dishes like this are not just food – they’re a lifestyle, a philosophy of caring for yourself and loved ones.
Since then, I’ve returned to this recipe whenever my immunity needs a boost. Each bowl takes me back to the scents of Chinese streets, the warmth of local hospitality, and the timeless wisdom that health begins in the kitchen.
FAQ – Common Questions About TCM and Power Soup
Can I skip huang qi?
Not recommended – huang qi gives the soup its immune-boosting properties. Without it, the soup is tasty but less potent.
Where can I buy TCM ingredients?
Astragalus root and other TCM herbs can be found in herbal stores, specialty pharmacies, or reputable online shops.
Is Power Soup suitable for children?
Yes, in a milder version – without soy sauce or strong spices.
How often can I drink this soup?
During infection, daily for several days. Preventively, 1–2 times per week.
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Want more tips? Discover how Traditional Chinese Medicine can naturally support emotional balance in Ask a TCM Doctor archive.
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