Chinese Yam

Botanical Source

The tuber of Dioscorea oppositifolia L., a plant of the Dioscoreaceae family.

Nature, Flavor & Meridian Tropism

Sweet in flavor, neutral in nature. It acts on the Spleen, Lung and Kidney meridians.

Functions & Indications

Tonifies qi and nourishes blood, invigorates the spleen, lung and kidney, consolidates essence and relieves leukorrhea.

It is applicable to poor appetite and chronic diarrhea due to spleen deficiency, cough and asthma caused by lung deficiency, spermatorrhea, excessive leukorrhea, frequent urination and consumptive thirst from deficient heat resulting from kidney deficiency.

Pharmacological Research

It invigorates the spleen and stomach to improve digestion, nourishes the kidney and consolidates essence, lowers blood glucose and helps delay aging.

Edible Methods of Chinese Yam

Chinese yam can be cooked in various ways including steaming, boiling, stewing, stir-frying, cold mixing, making porridge, soup and desserts. These cooking methods well preserve its nutrition and health benefits.

1. Steaming (Best for retaining nutrients and original flavor)

• Steamed Chinese Yam: Peel the Chinese yam, cut into sections and steam for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with honey or sugar for a soft, glutinous and sweet taste.
• Steamed Chinese Yam with Pumpkin: Arrange sliced Chinese yam and pumpkin alternately on a plate, steam for 20 minutes and drizzle with osmanthus honey. It helps invigorate the spleen and moisten the lungs.

2. Porridge & Soup (Mild and nourishing, easy to digest)

• Chinese Yam & Millet Porridge: Dice the yam and cook together with millet. Ideal for breakfast to nourish the spleen and stomach.
• Chinese Yam & Peanut Pork Rib Soup: Blanch pork ribs first, then simmer with Chinese yam, peanuts and corn for 1 hour. Season with salt. It tonifies qi and blood and strengthens bones.
• Chinese Yam, Lily & Tremella Soup: Simmer the ingredients for 40 minutes and add rock sugar. It moisturizes the lungs and soothes nerves, perfect for dry weather.

3. Stir-frying (Crisp and refreshing, quick home cooking)

• Stir-fried Chinese Yam with Wood Ear Mushrooms: Blanch sliced yam first, then stir-fry with wood ears, green and red peppers, scallions and garlic. Season with salt and vinegar.
• Stir-fried Chinese Yam with Pork Slices: Marinate pork slices and stir-fry briefly, then add yam slices and light soy sauce. A tasty daily dish.

4. Cold Salad (Light and low-fat, great for summer)

• Cold Mixed Chinese Yam: Blanch thick yam slices for 5 minutes and rinse with cold water. Toss with minced garlic, coriander, chili oil, salt and vinegar for a refreshing side dish.

5. Desserts & Snacks (Soft and sweet, suitable for all ages)

• Chinese Yam & Red Date Pancakes: Mash steamed yam, mix with chopped red dates and flour, then pan-fry until golden. Good for the spleen and stomach.
• Sweet & Sour Chinese Yam: Blanch yam sections, coat with starch and fry until golden. Mix with homemade sweet and sour sauce and stir well.
• Chinese Yam & Black Sesame Paste: Mix Chinese yam powder with black sesame, walnuts and wolfberries, then stir with hot water. It nourishes the kidney and consolidates essence.

Tips

1. Prevent skin irritation: Wear gloves when peeling yam, as the mucus may cause itching.
2. Avoid discoloration: Soak cut yam in water with a little vinegar to prevent oxidation.
3. Dietary contraindications: People with bloating due to excessive dampness, fever or constipation should eat less.