11/08/2025
A good Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recipe for November, which is the transition from late autumn to early winter, is Warm Pears with Ginger and Walnuts.
This recipe helps counteract the dryness of the season, soothe the lungs, and support the kidneys with warming, nourishing ingredients.
Warm Pears with Ginger and Walnuts (TCM-inspired)
This dish combines moistening pears with warming ginger to help with common autumn/winter complaints like dry coughs or a scratchy throat.
Ingredients
2-4 Asian or regular pears (peeled, cored, and quartered or halved)
3-4 slices of fresh, peeled ginger
2 cups water (or enough to cover the pears in a small pot)
1-2 tsp raw honey, maple syrup, or molasses per pear, to taste
A handful of walnuts
1 tbsp black sesame seeds (optional, for kidney support)
Instructions
Combine the pears, ginger slices, and water in a small pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are soft.
Remove from heat. Stir in your choice of sweetener.
Serve the warm pears in a bowl. Top with walnuts and black sesame seeds before eating.
TCM Benefits for November
Pears: Moistening properties counteract the autumn dryness, soothe the throat, and nourish Lung Yin.
Ginger: A warming spice that improves circulation, aids digestion, and helps ward off colds.
Walnuts and Black Sesame Seeds: These nuts and seeds nourish the Kidneys, an organ associated with the upcoming winter season, and help promote longevity and healthy skin.
Warm Preparation: Cooking foods longer and at warmer temperatures (like simmering a stew or soup) is recommended in November to provide internal warmth and support digestion as the weather gets colder.
