Job's Tears Whitefish Stew

Job’s tears is a popular allergy remedy in Asia that tastes like barley but does not contain gluten (a protein that may cause inflammation). Job’s tears have also been shown to suppress allergic reactions and balance the immune system of mice.

Spinach and mushrooms are amazing sources of folate (vitamin B9). A folate deficiency can contribute to atherosclerosis and dementia. Medications used for rheumatoid arthritis can deplete vitamin B9 in the body, so stock up on folate-rich veggies to replenish this vital nutrient!

Garlic and onions contain powerful antioxidants that reduce free-radical damage and scar tissue on the arteries. It has also been shown to reduce homocysteine levels in the blood, a marker that indicates inflammation.

2 cups (500 mL) chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, chopped 8 cups (2 L) vegetable stock 1 cup (250 mL) Job’s tears (yi yi ren), soaked in water overnight and drained 2 Tbsp (30 mL) finely chopped fresh ginger root 14 oz (400 g) white fish (halibut, black cod, pollock) 1 cup (250 mL) fresh sliced shiitake mushrooms 6 cups (1.5 L) baby spinach or bok choy 1/4 cup (60 mL) lime juice 1 cup (250 mL) chopped basil or cilantro 1/2 tsp (2 mL) grey or pink sea salt (or to taste) 3 spring onions, finely chopped

Place onion, garlic, stock, Job’s tears, and ginger in stockpot and bring to a rolling boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour.

Place fish and shiitake mushrooms on top of ingredients and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Add all remaining ingredients. Simmer for 5 minutes and then remove from heat.

Ladle into individual serving bowls and garnish with spring onion. Serve hot.

Serves 12.

Each serving contains: 151 calories; 13 g protein; 3 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 19 g total carbohydrates (4 g sugars, 2 g fibre); 359 mg sodium

Option:

Add a dash of fish oil to each bowl before serving. Make sure the soup has cooled enough to prevent damaging the omega-3 fatty acids in the fish oil.

Note: Job’s tears are found in many health food stores and Asian supermarkets.

Job’s tears are often mistakenly labelled as Chinese pearled barley in Asian markets. If you are a celiac, it is important to avoid buying in bulk due to potential contamination with gluten. Slow cooker convenience

This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Throw all the ingredients—except the green vegetables, herbs, and lime juice—into the slow cooker and cook for a minimum of two hours on high. Add the greens and lime juice at the end and enjoy!

source: "Whole Foods to Repair and Renew", alive #360, October 2012