Nourishing Your Spring with Wood Element Recipes - Part 1

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings, perfectly aligned with the Wood element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The Wood element governs the liver and gallbladder, organs that thrive on light, fresh, and vibrant foods. As we transition out of winter’s heaviness, it's the perfect opportunity to cleanse, rejuvenate, and energise our bodies with meals that support the Wood element. In this three-part blog series, we’ll explore simple yet delicious recipes that embody the spirit of Spring, helping you nourish and balance your body for the season ahead.

Part 1: Rejuvenate with Easy Miso Soup

A Simple and Soothing Start to Spring

Miso soup is a comforting, warming dish that's easy to make and perfect for aligning with the fresh energy of Spring. You may remember the delightful Japanese ladies who stayed with me this year...they had a small bowl every day as a start to their breakfast.

This soup offers gentle nourishment and supports digestion—a great way to start your day or enjoy as a light meal.

Recipe: Easy and Delicious Miso Soup (Wood Element Adapted)

Ingredients:

Broth: 4 cups water, 1 strip kombu (optional), or 1 tsp dashi powder
Miso Paste: 3 tbsp white or yellow miso paste I am actually using the brown rice from Ally's shop in town!
Vegetables: 1 cup baby spinach, 1 small zucchini (sliced), ½ cup snap peas, 1 green onion (chopped) Im using spring onion top from garden to keep it low fodmap
Protein: ½ cup silken tofu (optional)
Garnish: Fresh coriander, sesame seeds, nori strips, lime wedge (optional)

Instructions:

Simmer water with kombu; remove kombu before boiling.
Add vegetables and tofu; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Dissolve miso in a ladleful of broth, stir back into pot without boiling.
Add spinach and green onion; stir gently until spinach wilts.
Serve garnished with coriander, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.

Why Miso Soup?

This miso soup is light yet nourishing, featuring fresh green vegetables that support liver health. The gentle, probiotic-rich miso aids digestion, making it a wonderful way to align your meals with the Wood element's detoxifying nature.