Walnut Porridge

[Composition] Juglans regia L. (walnut), Oryza sativa L. (polished round-grained rice)

[Usage] First, remove the skin of the walnuts and grind them into a paste. Then, boil an appropriate amount of japonica rice in water. When the rice is nearly cooked, add the walnut paste and continue cooking until done. Consume on an empty stomach in the morning and evening.

[Functions] Moisturizes the skin and enhances complexion, blackens hair and beard.

[Indications] Gray hair, premature aging.

[Commentary] Empress Dowager Cixi often consumed walnuts and maintained a youthful appearance even in old age. Walnuts have the functions of tonifying the Kidneys and consolidating essence, warming the Lungs and moistening the intestines, dredging the meridians, nourishing the blood vessels, and blackening the beard and hair. Regular consumption makes people robust, turns the hair black, and makes the bones and flesh delicate and glossy. Japonica rice can strengthen the sinews and bones and nourish the stomach and intestines. In this formula, the nourishing effects of walnuts are enhanced by the vital energy of japonica rice, creating a mutually beneficial combination that tonifies the middle and replenishes qi, nourishes the Kidneys and blood, moistens the intestines and invigorates the stomach, thus moisturizing the skin and blackening the beard and hair.

Q1: How to make walnut porridge with japonica rice?

A1: To make walnut porridge with japonica rice, first remove the skin of the walnuts and grind them into a paste. Boil an appropriate amount of japonica rice in water, and when the rice is nearly cooked, add the walnut paste, then continue cooking until done. Consume on an empty stomach in the morning and evening for best results.

Q2: What is a walnut porridge recipe without walnut skin?

A2: A walnut porridge recipe without walnut skin involves peeling the walnuts to remove the bitter brown skin before grinding them into a paste. This yields a smoother texture and milder flavor. Then, follow the standard method: boil japonica rice and add the walnut paste when the rice is nearly cooked, stirring until well combined.

Q3: What are the benefits of eating walnut porridge for breakfast?

A3: Eating walnut porridge for breakfast offers several benefits, including moisturizing the skin, enhancing complexion, and blackening hair and beard due to its nourishing properties. It is particularly indicated for addressing gray hair and premature aging. Consuming it on an empty stomach in the morning helps maximize absorption of nutrients from the walnuts and japonica rice.

Q4: Can I use brown rice instead of polished rice for walnut porridge?

A4: Yes, you can use brown rice instead of polished rice for walnut porridge, though the texture and cooking time will differ. Brown rice requires longer boiling and more water to soften properly, so adjust accordingly. The walnut paste can be added once the brown rice is nearly cooked, maintaining the same overall method and benefits.

Q5: Does walnut porridge with japonica rice help with hair health?

A5: Yes, walnut porridge with japonica rice is traditionally used to blacken hair and beard, making it beneficial for hair health. The walnuts provide essential fatty acids and antioxidants that nourish hair follicles, while the rice supports overall vitality. Regular consumption, especially on an empty stomach, may help slow premature graying and improve hair texture.