A Dove is Worth Nine Chickens
Pigeon meat is salty, neutral in nature, and non-toxic. It is known for its benefits in nourishing yin and strengthening yang, replenishing the liver and kidneys, boosting qi and blood, and dispelling wind and detoxification. In winter, regularly consuming pigeon meat is excellent for strengthening the body, preventing and treating high blood pressure and vascular sclerosis, and alleviating neurasthenia caused by excessive mental exertion. Hence, the common saying, "A dove is worth nine chickens."
For individuals with average health, squab can be consumed on its own, such as in clear stewed pigeon, crispy aromatic pigeon, or five-spice fried pigeon. For the elderly, the weak, those with dual deficiencies of qi and blood, or women with blood deficiency and amenorrhea, you can try Ginseng and Angelica Pigeon Soup: Take one squab, add 30g of Codonopsis root (or 15g of Ginseng), 15g of Angelica sinensis, a few red dates, and simmer with water and seasonings to make a soup. For those with qi deficiency and kidney deficiency, you can prepare Astragalus and Goji Steamed Pigeon: Use one squab, add 15g of Astragalus root, 10g of goji berries, and appropriate seasonings like ginger, salt, and wine. Steam and consume.
Additionally, you can also steam squab with other ingredients according to individual needs, such as Glehnia root, Gastrodia elata, or Eucommia bark.