This deeply nourishing broth is ideal for the postpartum season and winter time when the Vata dosha is out of balance it blends Ayurvedic principles of well-spiced, seasonal ingredients to support strengthening the immune system. The recipe features a powerful combination of warming spices, calming botanicals, and mineral-rich vegetables—designed to gently rebuild and balance the body.
Why This Broth Is Beneficial
- Warming & Grounding: Spices like ginger, turmeric, cloves, fenugreek, and cumin help calm excess Vata, support circulation, and gently energize the system.
- Mineral & Vitamin Boost: Nettle, mullein, marshmallow root, and purple potatoes provide abundant vitamins and minerals for postpartum replenishment.
- Soothe Digestion: Marshmallow root and fennel seeds can help calm the gut; asafoetida (hing) and cumin ease bloating.
- Postpartum Hydration: A well-seasoned broth provides essential fluids to support lactation and overall recovery.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- Fats & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons ghee (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 cloves black garlic, peeled and mashed
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh turmeric, grated (or ½ teaspoon ground turmeric)
- Vegetables & Roots
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks organic celery, chopped
- 1 cup purple potatoes, diced (approx. 2 small/medium potatoes)
- Herbs & Botanicals
- 1 tablespoon dried mullein (or 1 mullein tea bag)
- 1 tablespoon dried nettle leaves (or a small handful fresh nettle, if available)
- 1 tablespoon dried marshmallow root (or 1 marshmallow root tea bag)
- 1 pinch saffron threads (optional, but recommended)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (fresh)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (fresh)
- Water & Seasoning
- 6–8 cups spring water (or filtered water)
- Juice of 1 lemon (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Spice Enhancements
Choose any or all of these to layer in additional warmth, flavor, and digestive support:
- ½–1 tsp fenugreek seeds (methi), lightly toasted & crushed
- ½–1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera), bloomed in ghee
- ½ tsp fennel seeds (saunf), crushed and added at the end
- 1 whole star anise, simmer 10–15 minutes, remove before serving
- 1–2 tsp coriander seeds, lightly toasted & crushed
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing), added with the aromatics
- 2–3 cardamom pods, gently crushed, simmered, then removed before serving
Instructions
- Warm the Base: In a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt the ghee (or coconut oil). Optionally bloom whole seeds—like cumin or fenugreek—or a pinch of asafoetida to enhance their flavors.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped shallots and cook until translucent. Stir in mashed black garlic, grated ginger, and grated turmeric; cook 1 minute to release aromas.
- Add Vegetables & Spices: Stir in carrots, celery, and purple potatoes. If using cloves, star anise, or cardamom pods, add them now. Coat everything thoroughly.
- Incorporate Healing Botanicals: Add mullein, nettle, and marshmallow root. If using saffron, crumble it slightly and sprinkle in.
- Simmer with Water: Pour in 6–8 cups of spring or filtered water, enough to cover vegetables by 1–2 inches. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 30–45 minutes.
- Season & Finish: Stir in fresh parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add lemon juice for a fresh note. Adjust salt, spice, or lemon to taste.
- Serve Warm: Strain out solids for a clear sipping broth, or keep them for a more substantial soup. Ladle into bowls or mugs and enjoy.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
- Total Time: 40–60 minutes
Nutrition & Postpartum Support
- Healthy Fats: Ghee may aid tissue repair and hormone balance.
- Digestion Soothers: Marshmallow root, fennel, and asafoetida help reduce gas or bloating.
- Iron & Minerals: Nettle is rich in iron and other trace minerals—key for postpartum energy.
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Turmeric, cloves, and fenugreek can help reduce swelling and support immune function.
Optional Variations
- Vegan/Non-Dairy: Replace ghee with coconut or olive oil.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally GF; double-check any tea bags or herbal mixes.
- Extra Protein: Add a spoonful of split yellow mung dal or red lentils. Adjust water and cook time accordingly.
- Herbal Boost: Stir in a spoonful of Anima Mundi blends (e.g., digestive or adrenal) to individual cups.
Final Notes
Tailored to warm, nourish, and replenish during postpartum, this broth can also serve as a hearty base for dals, stews, or soups. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a certified herbalist when adding new botanicals. May each sip bring you gentle, holistic support in your journey to recovery.
