Summer Blood-Moving TCM mushroom Stir-Fry Bowl
Key Benefits
Gently invigorates Blood and Qi
Supports Liver and Heart function (summer organs in TCM)
Keeps the body cool but not cold
Balances yin and yang with cooked and raw elements
Ingredients
Stir-Fry Base:
1 Tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 small beet, peeled and julienned
½ cup broccoli florets
½ cup bok choy or napa cabbage, chopped
½ cup zucchini, sliced
¼ cup red bell pepper, sliced
1 small handful wood ear mushrooms or shiitake, rehydrated if dried
Fresh Toppings:
¼ cup fresh herbs: cilantro, basil, or mint
½ cup cooked quinoa or millet
1 tsp white sesame seeds
Sauce:
1 Tbsp tamari or light soy sauce
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp honey or molasses
Optional: pinch of white pepper or fennel seed powder for a gentle warming lift
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger until aromatic.
Add beets, broccoli, mushrooms, and red pepper. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
Add zucchini and bok choy. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until just tender but still vibrant.
Add sauce ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
Serve over a bed of warm quinoa or millet. Top with herbs and sesame seeds.
Harmonizing Everyday Tonic Tea
Makes 3–4 cups
Key Benefits
Supports gentle Qi and Blood circulation
Calms the nervous system
Nourishes Yin and Blood
Aids digestion and emotional balance
Hydrating and safe for long-term use
Ingredients:
1 Tbsp goji berries (nourishes Blood, benefits eyes, mildly supports circulation)
1 tsp dried rose petals (calms Liver, soothes emotions, safe and gentle blood harmonizer)
1 tsp dried chamomile (calms the Shen, supports digestion, anti-inflammatory)
½ tsp dried orange peel (chen pi) (regulates Qi, gently relieves bloating)
½ tsp dried fennel or cardamom (lightly warming, aids digestion and reduces stagnation)
Optional: 1 tsp dried nettles (nourishes Blood and minerals, especially post-menstruation or postpartum)
Optional: 1 tsp chrysanthemum (cooling, brightens the eyes, pairs well in summer)
Instructions:
Combine all herbs in a teapot or mason jar.
Pour 3–4 cups of hot (just boiled) water over the herbs.
Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.
Strain, and sweeten with a touch of honey or molasses if desired.
Drink warm, or cool slightly for a summer-friendly version (but avoid iced tea if your digestion is weak).
This tea is a wonderful daily tonic to incorporate into your wellness routine. Whether you’re looking to support emotional well-being, boost Blood and Qi circulation, or simply enjoy a delicious and balancing herbal drink, this recipe offers a safe and effective path to inner harmony.
