In Chinese medicine theory, the kidneys
are associated with the winter season, the time when
life forces move to the core of our body and we rest
and store up energy for the spring. This is apparent
with the hibernation of animals and trees going dormant.
Winter lifestyle adjustments to increase health are
often recommended by acupuncturists including dietary
suggestions. It is also believed that different foods
and herbs function in different locations in our bodies.
And, in general, roots, being the deepest part of plants,
help to gently strengthen our kidney system. The following
recipe uses five root crops baked to a scrumptious golden
brown. It is absolutely delicious, especially served
with dark leafy greens and a nice piece of fresh Alaskan
salmon. A great warm winter meal!
1 small yam
1 medium beet
1 medium turnip
2 carrots
4-5 small yellow potatoes
10 whole garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp tamari
Preheat the
oven to 350 degrees. Cut all vegetables into ½
inch pieces.
Place in large (9 x 13 inch) baking pan with garlic
cloves. Thoroughly mix vinegar, oil and tamari in a
bowl and drizzle over the vegetables. Cover with aluminum
foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, stir vegetables
and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until
browned. No need to add salt as the tamari is salty
enough.
