Recipe

Spinach and Sprouts

Accompanying article: Menopause

Here's a simple dish that goes with any meal and that is deliciously medicinal. Both of these vegetables moisten, lubricate and therefore counteract dryness and heat and are good for menopausal discomfort. This dish, according to traditional Chinese medicine, also is prescribed for headaches, dizziness, high blood pressure and constipation.

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 garlic clove, pressed or diced
1 bunch spinach, stems removed, leaves washed but not dried
1 cup bean sprouts
Naturally fermented soy sauce or sea salt to taste

Warm oil in a wok or wide skillet. Add the garlic, cook over medium heat until it is aromatic and turns light gold, about 1 minute. Add the spinach, bean sprouts and soy sauce or salt and lightly cook for about 3 minutes or until the spinach is bright green and limp and the sprouts are translucent. Season with pepper. Remove to a serving bowl and serve warm or at room temperature. Serves 2 to 3.

May you be well nourished,

Rebecca Wood