If a man has no tea in him, he is incapable of understanding truth and beauty.”

– Japanese proverb

Overview

Lu Cha, or Green Tea, is packed with high polyphenol content, anti-mutagenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s great to stimulate digestion, central nervous system and boost energy. It also works amazingly as a quick and easy soup broth! Best part about this soup is it comes together in 10 minutes or less, but tastes like you have been working on it for hours!

Ingredients

1 pack of buckwheat soba noodles

1 bok choy, or a small handful of leafy greens (spinach, kale, swiss chard, etc.)

2 umeboshi plums

1 tsp wasabi paste

1 cup hot brewed jasmine green tea or genmaicha 

⅓ pack of tofu, cut into small cubes

1 tsp Tonic Broth (optional)

1-2 tbsp soy sauce

1 green onion, finely chopped

Serve with (optional): egg, salmon, bonito flakes, sesame seeds, sesame oil, nori seaweed strips 

Chinese Therapeutic Actions

Channels: Spleen, Kidney, Heart, Liver

Properties: Sweet, Bitter, Cooling

Key Constituents: Phytochemicals (including Polyphenols (Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), Epicatechin gallate, Epicatechins, Flavonoles) and Caffeine) Flavonoids (Kaempferol, Quercetin, Myricetin), Antioxidants

Functions: Harmonizes the Stomach, Directs Rebellious Stomach Qi Downward, Dispels Dampness, Clears the Head, Enhances Alertness

Directions

Prepare soba noodles according to directions on the packet. 

Arrange soba noodles, greens, tofu, ume plums and wasabi paste in a bowl. 

Pour hot tea “broth” into the bowl. The greens and tofu will cook with the heat of the broth.

Top with green onions, nori flakes, sesame seeds, bonito flakes, etc. (And any other toppings you like!)

Add soy sauce to taste.