PCOS Meal Planner

Lunch: Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño Mustard

Recipe by Edward Lee Simultaneously salty, sharp, spicy, and sweet (in other words, completely irresistible), these nuggets are chef Edward Lee's way of saying, "You can have a casual meal without compromising true culinary endeavor." The tradition of se

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño Mustard

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 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon packed light brown sugar, divided
1/4 cup warm water (110-115 °F)
1 cup warm milk (110-115 °F)
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped country ham (3 oz; preferably Newsom's or Benton's), divided
1/3 cup finely chopped sharp Cheddar, divided
6 cups water
4 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons finely chopped seeded fresh jalapeños
1 tablespoon mild honey
1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted
1 to 2 tablespoons pretzel salt or coarse salt

Instructions

Stir together yeast, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, and warm water in a large bowl and let stand until foamy, 5 to 8 minutes. (If mixture doesn't foam, start over with new yeast.) In a separate bowl, stir remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar into warm milk until dissolved.
Add 2 1/2 cups flour and milk mixture to yeast mixture and stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a soft dough forms, adding up to 1/2 cup additional flour, a little at a time, if necessary. Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times to form a smooth ball. Transfer to a clean bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a draft-free place at warm room temperature until doubled and bubbles appear on surface, about 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 400 °F with rack in upper and lower thirds. Line two 4-sided sheet pans with parchment paper.
Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 equal pieces. Lightly dust your hands with flour, then gently roll and stretch 1 piece of dough to form a 12-inch-long rope. Flatten dough and arrange so a long side is nearest you, then roll out to a roughly 12- by 4-inch rectangle with a lightly floured rolling pin. Gently press one fourth of ham and cheese into lower third of rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border along bottom edge. Stretch bottom edge of dough up over filling and press tightly to seal, then roll up as tightly as possible to form a rope. Cut rope into 12 pieces and transfer to a sheet pan. Make 3 more ropes with remaining dough, ham, and cheese and cut into pieces, transferring to sheet pans. Let rest at room temperature, uncovered, 30 minutes (dough will rise slightly).
Bring water (6 cups) to a boil in a 4-to 5-quart saucepan. Reduce heat and stir in baking soda. Cook pretzel bites in batches in gently simmering water, turning once, until slightly puffed, about 20 seconds. Transfer with a slotted spoon to sheet pans.
Bake until puffed and golden-brown, about 15 minutes (cheese may ooze slightly).
Meanwhile, stir together mustard, jalapeños, and honey.
Brush warm pretzel bites with butter and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Serve warm or at room temperature with jalapeño mustard for dipping.

Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño Mustard

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 4

Amount Per ONE Serving
Calories 0 kcal
Fat 0 g
Carbohydrate 0 g
Protein 0 g

Managing PCOS can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Join our supportive community to connect with others who understand what you're going through, share tips, and get encouragement. Here's how you can get involved:

Subscribe to our Newsletter: Receive PCOS-friendly recipes, tips, research updates, and more delivered straight to your inbox. Stay informed and empowered with the latest information and support.

Join our Telegram Channel: Stay updated with the latest tips and advice on managing PCOS.

Follow us on Facebook: Engage with our community, participate in discussions, and get support from others.

PCOS Coach AI: Access our 24/7 AI PCOS Coach and Meal Planner for personalized guidance and support anytime you need it.

Register to learn what this meal can do for you

Create a new plan every week and get full access to our premium planner

JOIN FREE

Comments about this recipe "Country Ham and Cheddar Pretzel Bites with Jalapeño Mustard"


Register or log in to add a comment

Tired of ineffective PCOS advice?

Break the cycle with the PCOS Meal Planner - your personalized guide to eating better, feeling better, and managing PCOS symptoms. Take control today!

Image of a woman who is cooking a PCOS friendly meal in a pot

About the PCOS Meal Planner

Forget the frustrating cycle of weight loss attempts, endless medications, and living in discomfort. Introducing the PCOS Meal Planner. A meal planning guide that goes beyond temporary fixes to offer a comprehensive strategy, empowering you to ignite a transformation towards lasting health and happiness. Step into a world where you control your PCOS, not the other way around.

Unlock Your PCOS Freedom Now.

Recent Blog Posts

Can going onto Metformin make my boobs bigger?

Explore the relationship between Metformin and breast size in PCOS treatment. Understand the facts and myths about this common medication.

PCOS and Jicama (Mexican Turnip): A Nutritious Addition to Your Diet

Discover how jicama, a low-glycemic root vegetable, can benefit women with PCOS. Learn about its nutritional value and delicious ways to incorporate it into your diet.

The Truth About Carbs: Understanding Their Role in a PCOS-Friendly Diet

Discover the facts about carbohydrates and their impact on PCOS. Learn how to incorporate healthy carbs into your PCOS-friendly diet for optimal health.

How to Take Iron Supplements Without Getting Constipated

Learn effective strategies to prevent constipation when taking iron supplements, including tips on Sangobion usage and natural remedies.

Laser Hair Removal for PCOS: Effectiveness, Benefits, and Considerations

Explore laser hair removal as a solution for PCOS-related hirsutism. Learn about its effectiveness, benefits, and what to consider before treatment.

PCOS Diet Plan to Get Pregnant

Discover a PCOS-friendly diet plan to boost fertility and increase your chances of getting pregnant. Learn about nutrition for conception with PCOS.

Mediterranean diet for PCOS - Pros and Cons

Explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of the Mediterranean diet for managing PCOS symptoms. Learn how this eating plan can impact your health.

Best foods for PCOS-related leaky gut

Discover the top foods to heal leaky gut and manage PCOS symptoms. Learn how to improve gut health naturally.

The Gut-PCOS Connection: How a Low GI Diet Can Support Digestive Health

Discover how a low GI diet can improve gut health and manage PCOS symptoms. Learn about the gut-PCOS connection and practical tips for better digestive health.