Winter recipe for Spleen and Kidney Yang: Moroccan Chicken Stew.

As the days grow shorter and colder, our bodies naturally crave warmth and nourishment. When we embrace Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) ways, Winter is the season to strengthen and support our Kidney and Spleen Yang energy. The Kidney and Spleen are the body’s reserves for energy production and the immune system. One of the best ways to support Kidney and Spleen Yang is by incorporating warming, aromatic spices into our meals. This Moroccan Chicken Stew is a perfect example—rich in flavour and gentle on digestion, it features spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric that help to warm the body from the inside out, awaken the Spleen, and boost our energy reserves.

I'm a degree qualified and AHPRA registered TCM Practitioner and have been in private practice since 2003. I've selected some recipes to give you inspiration for seasonal eating according to Chinese Medicine. I hope you enjoy them!

Moroccan-Spiced Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs (skinless)

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1.5L bone broth (chicken or vegetable)

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee

• Fresh coriander to garnish

Method:

1. In a large pot or slow cooker, heat olive oil or ghee.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant.
3. Add chicken thighs and brown lightly.
4. Stir in red and yellow peppers.
5. Sprinkle in cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika (if using).
6. Pour in bone broth and season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4 hours.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

This Moroccan Chicken Stew isn’t just a comforting meal for chilly days—it’s also a wonderful way to support your Spleen and Kidney Yang during Winter. By incorporating aromatic spices and slow-cooked goodness, you’re aligning with seasonal rhythms making it easy on your body to digest, build energy levels and strength.

For additional support using Acupuncture or Chinese Medicine to energise yourself, reach out here to make an appointment if you're on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

For further reading about TCM Dietary Therapy and Seasonal Eating click on these links:

Chinese dietary tips for Autumn

TCM dietary hints for Winter

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