Wool Socks for our Insides!

by Tanya Smith, Dr.TCM

As the weather turns colder, we reach for sweaters, scarves and wool socks to keep us warm. Did you know that you can also choose foods that will warm you up from the inside out?

Using warming foods (see the list below) and warming preparations such as slow cooking, baking and broiling will help your meal crank up your internal thermostat. It also makes sense this time of year to eat fewer raw and cold foods such as salads, iced drinks and raw fruit.

Warming Winter Stew

2 c water or vegetable stock
1/2 c short-grain brown rice, rinsed
1/2 c cooked aduki beans or chickpeas
1 carrot, chopped
1 stick celery, chopped
1-2 leaves kale, stem removed and finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan.
Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Reduce heat and simmer until brown rice and vegetables are cooked, 30-35 mins. Makes 3 cups.


Warming Foods List

* Try out black beans, aduki beans or lentils with quinoa, spelt or oats.
* Snack on sunflower seeds, walnuts or chestnuts.
* Fill your plate with parsnip, winter squash, sweet potato, onion, kale and garlic.
* Chicken, beef or lamb in a soup or stew makes a warming, satisfying meal.
* Make a dessert with cherry, citrus peel and date. Use molasses or rice syrup for sweeteners.
* Add warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon and cloves to your autumn meals.