Nourishing Postpartum Recovery with Coconut Ginger Healing Soup

Bringing a new life into the world is a magical and transformative experience, but it can also take a toll on a mother's body. Postpartum recovery is a crucial time for healing and self-care, and what better way to support that process than with nourishing, comforting food? Today, I'm so excited to share a fantastic recipe for Coconut Ginger Healing Soup (thanks to my good friend for sharing- it's so good!) from the popular food blog, Ambitious Kitchen, and explore why its ingredients are ideal for postpartum recovery. Plus, I'll show you how to prepare soup cubes to freeze and gift to a new mom, making it a thoughtful and practical gesture of support.

Coconut Ginger Healing Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (I used avocado oil bc of allergies)

• ½ cup diced green onion

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated turmeric

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth (or 8 if you like it broth-y)

• 1 (15 ounce) can light coconut milk

• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce ( I replaced this with Coconut Aminos to avoid soy)

• 1 tablespoon red chili paste (if you like a little heat)

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs

• ¾ cup jasmine brown rice (or sub jasmine white rice)

• 1-2 teaspoons fish sauce

• 1 lime, juiced

• To garnish:

• ⅓ cup diced green scallions

• ⅓ cup chopped cilantro

• ¼ cup torn mint

• ¼ cup torn basil

• 3-4 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts (skipped this bc of allergies also)

Instructions

Add 1 tablespoon sesame oil to a large dutch oven or pot and place over medium high heat. Add in the green onion, carrots, ginger and turmeric; saute for 3-5 minutes. During the last 30 seconds-1 minute of cooking, add in the garlic and saute until fragrant. Slowly add in the chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce and red chili paste until well combined. Add in the chicken thighs, brown rice and stir, making sure the chicken is covered with the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally so the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan at any point.

After 25-30 minutes, use a slotted spoon to remove chicken from the pot and transfer to a cutting board, but keep the heat in the pot as the rice will need to continue cooking. Use two forks to shred chicken then add back to the pot. If you like a brothier soup, now is the time to add more chicken broth. Cover soup with lid, continuing to simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until rice is tender. Finally to finish, add fish sauce and lime juice and simmer for just a few more minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Pour into bowls, then garnish with a little of each of the following: scallions, cilantro, mint, basil and peanuts. Serves 4-6. Enjoy.

Why These Ingredients Are Great for Postpartum Recovery

1. Coconut Milk: Rich in healthy fats, coconut milk provides nourishing calories that help replenish a new mom's energy reserves. It also contains lauric acid, which can support the immune system.

2. Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, ginger can help alleviate nausea and indigestion, common postpartum discomforts. It also aids in healing and recovery.

3. Turmeric: This golden spice is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and has been associated with reduced postpartum pain and swelling.

4. Sweet Potatoes: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, sweet potatoes offer sustained energy and essential nutrients to aid in recovery.

5. Red Curry Paste: It adds a burst of flavor and some spicy kick to the soup. Capsaicin, found in chili peppers, can stimulate endorphin production, providing a mood boost.

6. Garlic and Onions: These aromatic ingredients provide flavor and immune-boosting properties, essential during the postpartum period.

Freezing Soup Cubes for Gifting

One of the most thoughtful ways to support a mom in her postpartum journey is to prepare and freeze portions of this Coconut Ginger Healing Soup. To do this:

1. Allow the soup to cool completely.

2. Pour it into these souper cubes, so they freeze in convenient, single-serving portions. (1 cup)

3. Once frozen, remove the cubes and place them in a labeled, airtight container or freezer bag. Don't forget to include reheating instructions.

4. Gift these soup cubes to the new mom, making it easy for her to enjoy a comforting, nourishing meal whenever she needs it.

Postpartum recovery can be a challenging but beautiful time in a mother's life. Offering support through food is a wonderful way to show you care. The Coconut Ginger Healing Soup is a perfect recipe for this purpose, as it combines delicious flavors with healing ingredients. Preparing and gifting soup cubes is a thoughtful gesture that can make a significant difference in a new mom's postpartum journey, providing comfort and nourishment during this special time.