Spinach-Mung Detox Soup

We all know, how stress can take the life out of us! When we start feeling out of control, start skipping meals, mind starts racing, have difficulty getting sleep – our bodies are giving us early symptoms of vata imbalance. This is the time to slow down, take time to rest, enjoy nature and savor warm soothing soups!!

It’s proved by science, that we all first eat with our eyes…look at this vibrant inviting green color!! I assure you it tastes equally good as it’s boastful appearance!

Let’s get started – (serves 2-3 people)

• 1- 2 tsp unrefined Sesame Oil (or Olive Oil)
• 1 tbsp Date paste
• 1 tsp fresh minced Ginger
• 2 cloves minced Garlic
• 1/2 -1 tsp crushed Black Pepper
• 1 pinch of Red Chilli Flakes (optional)
• 2 tsp Cumin pwd
• 1/4 tsp Cardamom pwd
• 1 tsp Spice Mix ( 21 day salute or allspice)
• 1-2 tsp Lemon/Lime juice
• 2 tbsp Nut Paste (pumpkin seeds and walnuts)
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup chopped Leeks (or onions)
• 1/2 cup chopped Celery
• 1 cup cooked Yellow Split Mung Beans
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped Spinach
• 1/2 cup diced Carrots
• 2-4 cups Water (you can also use vegetable stock)

Take a stock pot, add the oil and saute the chopped veggies along with all the seasonings except spinach. Saute for 5-10 mins, your kitchen will be filled with appetizing aromas!!. Now, add the spinach and water to the mixture. Saute for few more mins. At the end add the mung beans and simmer until everything gets well incorporated.

Blend to a soup like consistency. When ready to serve garnish with parsley, tomatoes. Small cubed avocados go well with this soup!

During the vata season, Ayurveda tells us to eat cooked greens in moderation and stay away from eating raw salads. Eating raw salads during vata season tends to increase the dryness quality in our bodies which eventually leads to constipation and bloating.

I do cut back on my green smoothies during the fall season and have them occasionally. In my own observation, my body does embrace cooked greens in soups more than having them raw in smoothies or salads. The key is to listento your body, – it knows what’s best for you!

Enjoy this beautiful season. Happy Healthy Eating!! _/\_