Early Spring Recipe

Season: Early Spring
Focus: Gentle detox, liver support, clearing winter stagnation
Key Ingredients: Silkie chicken bones, dandelion root, burdock root, parsley, lemon peel

“Spring doesn't ask for perfection—only that we release the old and let the new flow in.”

Why This Recipe Works

As the seasons shift and fresh greens begin to appear, our bodies naturally crave lighter, cleansing foods. This gentle Silkie-based herbal broth supports that process with ingredients chosen to stimulate liver function, reduce inflammation, and encourage lymphatic flow.

Unlike heavy winter stews, this broth is more delicate—designed to sip on its own or use as a base for other spring meals. The Silkie bones contribute easily absorbed minerals, amino acids, and immune-enhancing compounds like carnosine. Herbal additions such as dandelion root, burdock, and lemon peel offer bitterness and astringency, which are key to waking up the digestion and metabolism after winter.

Ingredients

Base:

• Bones from 1 Silkie chicken (or 1 small whole Silkie)

• 10–12 cups water

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 small onion, halved

• 2 garlic cloves, smashed

Herbs & Enhancements:

• 1 tbsp dried dandelion root (or 2 tbsp fresh chopped)

• 1 tbsp dried burdock root (or 2 tbsp fresh chopped)

• Zest of 1 organic lemon (or strips of peel)

• Small handful of fresh parsley (stems are fine)

• Optional: 1 tsp fennel seeds (for digestive ease)

• Optional: 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Combine and Simmer:

   • In a large pot, add bones, water, vinegar, onion, garlic, and roots.

   • Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 3–4 hours.

2. Add Aromatics:

   • In the final 30 minutes, add lemon peel, parsley, and optional fennel and bay leaf.

3. Strain and Store:

   • Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve.

   • Store in glass jars or freeze for later use.

Serving Suggestions

• Sip warm in the morning with a pinch of sea salt

• Use as a base for spring soups with greens or root vegetables

• Pair with light proteins and fresh sprouts for a cleansing meal

Notes:

• Bitterness = detox: Dandelion and burdock gently stimulate bile flow, aiding digestion and liver function.

• Customizable: Add tulsi, lemongrass, or calendula for calming or floral notes

• Storage Tip: Keeps 5–7 days refrigerated or up to 3 months frozen

This broth is an invitation to slow down, lighten up, and support your body’s natural seasonal rhythms. Next in the spring series: **Silkie Stir Fry with Garden Veggies.