Lunch: Honey-Cilantro Wings with Red Cabbage Slaw

Recipe by Judy Kim These sweet-and-spicy wings will make you forget all about your beloved buffalo sauce.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Honey-Cilantro Wings with Red Cabbage Slaw

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

Canola oil, for frying
2 lb. chicken wings, split at the joint, wingtips removed and discarded, room temperature
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 c. cornstarch
1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
4 tbsp. honey, plus more for drizzling
1 tbsp. sesame oil
3 c. shredded purple cabbage
2 large carrots, shaved with peeler
2 c. chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
1 tsp. grated garlic
1 tsp. grated fresh ginger
3 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce

Instructions

Pour enough oil into a deep large pot to reach four inches high. Heat oil to 350 degrees F. Rinse and dry chicken and season with salt and pepper, then toss with cornstarch. Shake off excess and transfer to a large bowl.
Set a cooling rack over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. When oil has come to temperature, add chicken in batches using a slotted spoon. (Do not overcrowd the pot or the oil temperature will drop.) Fry chicken until golden and crispy, 10 minutes. Continue cooking chicken in batches, ensuring temperature remains at 350 degrees F. Drain chicken on cooling rack and set aside.
Meanwhile, while chicken is frying, whisk together vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large mixing bowl. Toss together with cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. Transfer slaw to a large serving platter with chicken.
In a small bowl mix together garlic, ginger, 3 tablespoons honey, and soy sauce. Microwave 2 minutes. Drizzle all over chicken and serve remaining sauce for dipping.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

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