The Hero's Journey Ayurveda

Pitta & Kapha Pacifying

In preparation for spring, I have a list of recipes to try that will be supportive and nourishing as we navigate aggravated Kapha in the environment and the emergence of Pitta. This recipe is adapted from a Banyan Botanicals recipe and it incorporates the six tastes, which makes it more tridoshic.

While this recipe is quite simple on its own, you can customize it to make it more appropriate to different seasons or just add a little something different. During the winter months, this can be a great soup by adding in tomato and onion to increase the warming qualities. You can also consider adding chick peas, subbing out the quinoa for farro, or adding in some sautéed mushrooms.

Please note, you do not need to use an Instant Pot here. You can use a pot on the stove and cook until the grain is tender.

Ingredients

• 8 cups of chicken broth (or bone broth, mushroom broth – your preference!)
• 1/2 cup of quinoa (or other preferred grain)
• 5 stalks of celery, chopped
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 leek, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger (I use the ginger paste you can purchase in the produce aisle at Shoprite – you can grate your own piece!)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• Salt
• 2 tsp coriander, ground
• Lemon
• Red pepper flakes (or black pepper)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill)

Directions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté. Add olive oil or ghee, and add the chopped leek, celery, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for a couple minutes until soft.
2. Add the turmeric and coriander. Mix and continue to sauté another minute or so.
3. Add the broth, quinoa, and salt.
4. Turn off Sauté and attach the lid of the Instant Pot. Cook on Manual for 12 minutes. Use caution around the seal – be sure it is set to seal prior to turning on Manual. Steer clear of the seal when you are venting it later.
5. After the 12 minutes is up, you can release the vent. Again, use caution.
6. Add your chopped kale, juiced lemon, and red pepper flakes. Taste your broth and add salt or other spices as desired.
7. Garnish your bowl with fresh herbs.

Enjoy!