Taste of TCM

It's important to eat intelligently and in harmony with nature to maintain a healthy body. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) understands that all foods have a unique healing essence that travels to one or more specific organs, nourishing and helping to heal them. According to TCM theory, autumn is the season associated with the Metal element and the Lung. There are many foods that benefit this organ system, including pears, persimmons, almonds, white mushrooms, and rock sugar candy (this form of sugar is available at most Asian food stores).

Traditional Pear Compote

The essence of pear is cold and it travels to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, cooling them down. The following recipe is very good for autumn coughs. If the cough is deep and accompanied by phlegm, a handful of almonds can be added to the recipe. Particularly effective are bitter almonds, also available at Asian food stores.

Ingredients

• 6 pears (any variety), chopped
• 1/3 cup of rock sugar candy
• 1/4 cup of water

Directions

• Place all ingredients in a 2-quart covered pot in a double boiler. (If you do not have a double boiler, place the covered pot containing the pears in another larger pot with several inches of water in it. The larger, outside pot is the one that comes into contact with the heat source.)
• Double boil on low to medium heat for approximately 40 minutes until the pears are soft. Stir gently and serve warm in a bowl.

Makes about 4 servings.