Lunch: Molasses Five-Spice Roast Chicken

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Molasses Five-Spice Roast Chicken

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1 whole Chicken
1 1/2 tsp. Chinese five-spice powder
3 medium sweet potatoes
2 tbsp. dark molasses
2 tbsp. ketchup
1 tbsp. honey
1 tbsp. soy sauce
1/2 tsp. salt
fresh chives

Instructions

Preheat oven to 450 ° F. Remove giblets and neck from chicken. If you like, rinse chicken with cold running water and drain well; pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder inside cavity.
With chicken breast side up, tuck wing tips under back of chicken. With string, tie legs together.
Line medium roasting pan (15 1/2" by 10 1/2") with foil. Place chicken, breast side up, on small rack in center of foil-lined pan. Wash and dry potatoes; pierce with fork. Place potatoes around chicken in pan.
In cup, combine molasses, ketchup, honey, soy sauce, salt, and remaining five-spice powder. Brush half of molasses glaze all over chicken. Cover pan with loose tent of foil. Roast chicken 30 minutes.
Remove foil; brush remaining glaze over chicken. Roast 30 minutes longer or until temperature on meat thermometer reaches 175 ° to 180 ° F and juices run clear when thickest part of thigh is pierced with knife.
Transfer potatoes to cutting board; keep warm. With tongs, tilt chicken to allow juices from cavity to run into roasting pan. Place chicken on warm platter; let chicken stand 10 minutes before carving. Slice potatoes into 3/4-inch-thick slices; arrange on platter with chicken. Garnish with chives. Skim and discard fat from drippings in pan. Serve pan drippings with chicken and potatoes.

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