A yummy bowl of soft vermicelli noodles, paired with yin-vigorating veggies. We swapped the classic fish sauce for a creamy & delicious honey-walnut sauce.
As a family of vegetarians, these bowls are a fan favorite in our household, as we often crave the harmonious blend of fresh herbs, savory vegetables, and protein-rich tofu, especially in the summertime.
Our variation of this traditional Vietnamese staple is particularly great for nourishing "yin" deficiencies in the body, to address "brittle, dry and warm" symptoms. This can include everything from a dry mouth and dry skin to hot flashes - even issues with memory & focus.
From a Western standpoint, nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are beneficial for promoting hydration and fluid balance in the body. They are often used in sports drinks or to address dehydration; however, it's important to consume these nutrients, known as electrolytes, on a daily basis through organic whole foods, to address constitutional patterns that may be leading to yin-deficiency symptoms.
Several ingredients in this bowl are hard hitters for helping to balance this warm & dry pattern in the body:
Mung bean sprouts are a common ingredient in vermicelli bowls, prized for their crunchy texture and subtle nutty flavor. From a TCM perspective, mung bean sprouts are considered cooling in nature, making them an excellent choice for balancing the body's internal heat, especially during warmer seasons. They are rich in nutrients like vitamin C, folate, and fiber, supporting digestive health and immune function.
Tofu, a versatile soy-based protein, is a cornerstone of many Vietnamese dishes. In TCM, tofu is valued for its ability to nourish the body's yin energy, promoting hydration and moisture balance. From a Western nutrition standpoint, it is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and growth. Tofu is also rich in minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium, supporting bone health and energy production.
We swapped out the traditional fish sauce for peanut sauce, and then put a spin on it, using walnut butter instead.
Walnuts are known to be a brain-boosting nut. In TCM, they help to moisten dryness, support the kidneys, nourish qi and blood, and also resolve phlegm (a combo of patterns that are underlying many degenerative diseases affecting cognitive abilities). Walnuts are high in healthy fats, as well as iron and magnesium, bringing an essential hydrating element to dried-out constitutions.
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