Warming, grounding, and perfect for strengthening qi during autumn.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, autumn corresponds to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians and is associated with dryness. Foods that moisten, warm, and strengthen digestion help maintain balance:
- Acorn squash strengthens Spleen & Stomach qi, grounding energy.
- Turkey sausage nourishes qi and yang gently.
- Brown rice supports digestion and provides steady energy.
- Onion, red pepper, fennel, basil, and parsley move qi, dispel cold, and add aromatic warmth.
🥗 Ingredients
- 2 acorn squash (about 2½ lbs), halved, seeds removed
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (plus extra if needed)
- ½ lb ground Italian turkey or chicken sausage (sweet or hot)
- 1 tsp dry Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ tsp crushed fennel seed (optional)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 package precooked whole-grain brown rice
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh basil (or 2 Tbsp parsley)
- Shredded or shaved Parmesan (optional)
🍳 Instructions
- Cook the squash: Grease a microwave-safe dish. Place squash halves cut-side down. Microwave on High for 8–9 minutes until fork-tender. Let cool slightly.
- Preheat oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and spray lightly.
- Cook sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Cook sausage, Italian seasoning, and fennel until browned, crumbling into small pieces. Transfer to a bowl.
- Sauté vegetables: Add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onion and red pepper with salt and pepper for 6–8 minutes, covering briefly to soften. Add to sausage.
- Combine filling: Scoop squash flesh, leaving ¼-inch shells. Mix squash flesh, parsley, basil, and rice with sausage mixture. Stir well.
- Bake: Fill squash shells, tent with foil, and bake 20 minutes or until heated through. Add Parmesan and extra herbs in the last few minutes.
🌿 TCM Tips & Variations
- Extra Yin Support: Add chopped pear or lotus root to soothe lung dryness.
- More Warmth: Sprinkle in fresh ginger or a dash of cinnamon.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute mushrooms or tempeh for sausage to keep it grounding and nourishing.
