Shrimp and Seaweed Soup with Spinach is a deeply nourishing dish that harmonizes key principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support vitality and balance. Shrimp, known for its warming and yang-tonifying properties, strengthens kidney yang, boosts energy, and promotes vitality, making it particularly beneficial for those feeling cold or fatigued. Seaweed, such as nori or wakame, has a cooling and yin-nourishing nature, helping to clear heat, soften hardness, and support detoxification. Spinach, with its sweet and slightly cooling qualities, nourishes liver blood, supports detoxification, and promotes healthy circulation. Ginger enhances the dish with its warming and digestive-harmonizing properties, helping to dispel cold and improve qi flow.
This soup provides high-quality protein from shrimp, along with essential minerals like iodine and iron from seaweed and spinach, which support thyroid function and blood health. Sesame oil and optional sesame seeds add a dose of healthy fats, aiding nutrient absorption and supporting overall energy. This soup is light yet deeply nourishing, ideal for strengthening vitality, promoting detoxification, and supporting overall balance and well-being.
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 bunch spinach, chopped
- 1 sheet nori or 1/4 cup dried wakame (rehydrated)
- 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a pot and sauté ginger. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
- Add broth, soy sauce, and seaweed. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Energetics (TCM):
- Shrimp strengthens kidney yang and supports vitality.
- Seaweed clears heat and nourishes yin.
- Spinach supports the liver and blood health.
