Inspired by Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet
Drawing from the 16th-century apothecary of Hamnet’s Agnes, this broth is a tribute to the "forest witch" and healer. It is a grounded, medicinal ritual in a cup, filled with the scents of the hearth and the wild woods.
Functional Focus: Immunity boost, anti-inflammatory support, and nervous system grounding.
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Prep time: 10 mins
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Simmer time: 30 mins
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Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients
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2 cups Mixed Wild Mushrooms: Shiitake, Maitake, or Oyster (torn by hand).
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4 cups Organic Vegetable Broth: Or filtered water for a lighter tea-style broth.
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Fresh "Forest" Herbs: 3 sprigs of Thyme, 1 sprig of Rosemary, and 4 Sage leaves.
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2 Garlic Cloves: Smashed to release their healing oils.
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1-inch Ginger Knob: Sliced thin.
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The Secret: 1/2 cup Dandelion Greens or stinging nettle (representing Agnes’s wild foraging).
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Pinch of Smoked Sea Salt: To bring in the scent of a wood-burning fire.
Instructions
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The Infusion: In a heavy pot, combine the broth, garlic, ginger, and forest herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer.
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The Earth: Add the mushrooms and simmer for 20 minutes until the broth is dark and fragrant.
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The Wild: Stir in the dandelion greens or nettle during the last 2 minutes of simmering until wilted.
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The Ritual: Season with smoked sea salt. Strain for a clear "healing tonic" or leave the ingredients in for a rustic, hearty meal.
Crunchy Mama Tip: Pour this into a handmade, rustic ceramic mug. Wrap your hands around the warmth and breathe in the forest herbs before your first sip to truly ground your energy.
