Lunch: Fried Chicken Wings with Pickled Daikon

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Sesame Seeds, Lemon, Honey

Health benefits of Fried Chicken Wings with Pickled Daikon

Sesame seeds help with progesterone balance. Lignans found in in sesame seeds help to prevent excess estrogen production. Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

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

1/2 cup gochujang (Korean red chile paste)
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon minced ginger (about one 1/4-inch piece)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
8 cups canola oil
1 1/2 cups ice water
1 cup cornstarch
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Pinch pepper
2 pounds chicken wings (about 14 pieces), split and tips removed
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
2 scallions, chopped on an angle, for garnish
Pickled Daikon, recipe follows

Instructions

Whisk together the gochujang, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic and lemon juice in a small saucepan until completely blended and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens to the consistency of pudding, for 7 to 8 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Preheat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the oil reaches a temperature of 350 degrees F.
Meanwhile, whisk together the ice water, cornstarch, flour, salt and pepper in a large bowl until no lumps remain. Add the chicken and toss to coat.
Using a spider or slotted spoon, lift the chicken pieces out of the batter one at a time, letting the excess batter drip back into the bowl, and drop into the oil. Fry in two batches, 7 to 8 wings at a time, until lightly brown, for 7 to 8 minutes each batch. Adjust the heat so that the oil remains at 350 degrees F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack.
Using a pastry brush, generously paint each wing with the gochujang sauce. Be careful not to smother the wings in sauce or they will lose their crispy texture.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions. Serve immediately with Pickled Daikon.
Put the daikon in a medium bowl and toss with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Let stand for 30 minutes, and then rinse with cold water and pat dry.
Put the sugar, vinegar, 1 cup water, the garlic and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Remove and discard the garlic.
Pack the daikon into a container with a tight-fitting lid, cover with the liquid and seal. Allow to marinate at room temperature for at least 1 day or up to 2, and then refrigerate. Serve as a side dish or accompaniment to any fried chicken dish.

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