The nutritional value of food lies in its clever pairing. When paired well, it not only helps the human body absorb its nutrients effectively, multiplying its nutritional value, but also reduces its side effects, making it more beneficial to human health.
Pig Liver ———— Spinach
Pig liver and spinach both have the function of nourishing the blood. One is meat, the other is vegetable, they complement each other and are absorbed together, making them especially effective for treating anemia.
Beef ———— Potato
Beef is highly nutritious and helps strengthen the spleen and stomach. However, beef can be coarse and sometimes irritate the gastric mucosa. When cooked with potatoes, it not only tastes better, but the potatoes' rich vitamin U also protects the gastric mucosa.
Mutton ———— Ginger
Mutton nourishes Yang and provides warmth, while ginger dispels cold and keeps the body warm. When paired together, they enhance each other's warming effects. They can also expel external pathogens and relieve abdominal pain caused by cold.
Chicken ———— Chestnut
Chicken nourishes the spleen and produces blood, while chestnuts strengthen the spleen. A healthy spleen facilitates better absorption of chicken's nutrients, which in turn enhances blood production. The effect is even better when old hen soup is simmered with chestnuts.
Duck ———— Chinese Yam
Old duck can replenish the body's fluids and nourish Yin, as well as clear heat and relieve coughing. Chinese yam has a stronger effect in nourishing Yin. When eaten with duck, it can reduce greasiness and enhance the lung-nourishing effect.
Crucian Carp ———— Rice Vinegar
Crucian carp itself has the effect of draining water. Most human swelling, except for nephritis, is caused by dampness. Rice vinegar has the function of removing dampness. When eaten with crucian carp, its effect of removing dampness is enhanced.
Tofu ———— Radish
Tofu is a source of plant-based protein, and eating too much can cause indigestion, known as "tofu stagnation." Radish, especially white radish, has strong digestive properties. When eaten with tofu, it helps the body absorb most of its nutrients.