Lunch: Beef, Mushroom and Green Bean Stir-Fry

Recipe by Woman's Day Kitchen The vegetables in this dish not only lend nutrition, but color and crunch as well. Feel free to substitute sugar snap peas or snow peas for the green beans, but don't skimp on the fresh ginger—the powdered version won't hold

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Beef, Mushroom and Green Bean Stir-Fry

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

6 oz. thin rice noodles
2 tbsp. canola oil
8 oz. shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded
8 oz. green beans
1 piece fresh ginger
1/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp. honey
1 tbsp. cornstarch
Black pepper
1 lb. sirloin steak

Instructions

Place the noodles in a large bowl. Cover with boiling water and let sit for 15 minutes; drain and return them to the bowl.
Meanwhile, heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook, tossing, for 2 minutes. Add the green beans and cook, tossing, until the green beans are just tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the ginger and toss to combine. Transfer the vegetables to the bowl with the noodles (reserve the skillet) and toss to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey and 1 Tbsp water. In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch and 1/4 tsp pepper. Add the beef and toss to coat.
Add the remaining Tbsp oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2 minutes. Add the soy sauce mixture and cook just until slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Serve with the noodles and vegetables.

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