Late Summer Nourishment: A TCM-Inspired Recipe to Strengthen Digestion and Ground Your Energy

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), late summer is considered a distinct fifth season—a transitional period between the yang energy of summer and the yin energy of autumn. This time is ruled by the Earth element and the Spleen and Stomach, the organs most responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall energy (Qi) production.

When the Earth element is in balance, we feel centered, nourished, and strong. When it's weakened, symptoms like bloating, fatigue, loose stools, brain fog, and worry can appear.

Late summer is the perfect time to support your digestive system with warm, simple, and grounding foods. One of the most beloved TCM dishes for this season is Congee, a savory rice porridge that’s easy to digest and deeply nourishing.

Late Summer Spleen-Strengthening Congee (Rice Porridge)

Why Congee? Congee is a staple in TCM healing diets. It’s gentle on digestion, hydrating, and easy to modify based on your constitution and the season. For late summer, we add ingredients that tonify the Spleen, dry Dampness, and nourish Qi.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice (or use a mix of white and millet for extra Spleen support)

• 8–10 cups water or low-sodium chicken/vegetable broth

• 4–5 slices fresh ginger

• 1 medium sweet potato, cubed (strengthens Spleen Qi)

• 1/2 cup cooked adzuki beans (drains Damp, supports digestion)

• 1–2 Chinese red dates (Da Zao – tonifies Qi and Blood)

• Pinch of salt

• Optional toppings: chopped scallions, sesame oil, soft-boiled egg, sautéed greens, toasted pumpkin seeds

  
  

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and place it in a large pot with the water or broth.

2. Add ginger, sweet potato, red dates, and a pinch of salt.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more water if needed.

4. When the congee reaches your desired consistency (it should be creamy and soft), stir in the adzuki beans and simmer another 5–10 minutes.

5. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite nourishing additions.

TCM Notes:

• Sweet potato and millet tonify Spleen Qi and are perfect Earth element foods.

• Adzuki beans help clear Dampness, a common issue in late summer humidity.

• Ginger warms the middle Jiao (digestive center) and prevents cold Damp accumulation.

• Red dates nourish Qi and Blood, harmonizing the formula.

Lifestyle Tips for Late Summer:

• Eat meals at regular times to support Spleen function.

• Favor warm, cooked foods over raw or cold dishes.

• Avoid heavy, greasy, or overly sweet foods that create Dampness.

• Get grounded with gentle movement like walking, yoga, or tai chi.

• Prioritize rest and simplicity—Earth season is about centering and replenishing.

Nourish your digestion, stabilize your energy, and prepare your body for the seasonal shift ahead. This gentle, comforting recipe is a delicious way to stay balanced through late summer.

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