Grounding Soup

According to Chinese 5 element theory, round and root vegetables strengthen the spleen and reproductive organs, nourish the liver, and aid digestion. This soothing soup has a notable calming, easing effect, and should be eaten often by anyone with a sensitive nervous system. The soup also helps promote lactation, and balance blood sugar. It is especially good during the cooler months, as it is considered a warming soup.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sweet onion, peeled and chopped
• 1 leek, white and green parts, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped fine
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium parsnip, peeled and chopped
• 1 small turnip or rutabaga, peeled and chopped
• 1 small pumpkin, or butternut or kabocha squash, peeled and chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 quarts vegetable stock, or spring water
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
• Sea salt
• Chopped parsley (optional)

Preparation:

In large soup pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, leek, garlic, celery and carrot, and sauté until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add potato, sweet potato, parsnip, turnip, pumpkin and bay leaf. Stir vegetables, and then add vegetable stock.

Bring to a boil, cover the pan, reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Add thyme, and sea salt to taste. Cook an additional 5 minutes.

Remove bay leaf, and puree soup with a vertical blender.

To serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. This soup keeps well for several days.

Makes about 3 quarts, or 6 servings.

Copyright 2007 by Jen Hoy

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