Lunch: Classic Buttercrunch Toffee

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Nuts, Walnuts

Health benefits of Classic Buttercrunch Toffee

Nuts are a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity.

Walnuts are an excellent addition to the diet for managing PCOS symptoms. These nutrient-dense nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. But what makes walnuts particularly beneficial for individuals with PCOS?

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Walnuts are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation is crucial for managing PCOS symptoms, as chronic inflammation can exacerbate hormonal imbalances. Omega-3s also support heart health, which is important since women with PCOS are at a higher risk of cardiovascular issues.

Magnesium

Walnuts are rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays a key role in regulating insulin levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Magnesium also helps reduce inflammation and supports muscle and nerve function. Adequate magnesium intake can help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is commonly associated with PCOS.

Fiber

The high fiber content in walnuts helps regulate digestion and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management, a crucial aspect of managing PCOS. Including walnuts in your diet can help prevent overeating and support digestive health.

Antioxidants

Walnuts are loaded with antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with PCOS, as oxidative stress can worsen symptoms and lead to further health complications. Antioxidants in walnuts support overall health and can help mitigate some of the negative effects of PCOS.

Incorporating Walnuts into Your Diet

You might wonder, "How can I include walnuts in my meals?" Here are some ideas:

• Snacks: Enjoy a handful of walnuts as a quick, nutritious snack.
• Salads: Add chopped walnuts to your salads for a crunchy texture and added nutrients.
• Oatmeal: Sprinkle walnuts on top of your oatmeal or yogurt for a healthy and satisfying breakfast.
• Baking: Incorporate walnuts into your baking recipes, such as muffins, bread, or cookies, for a nutritious twist.

Another common question is, "Can I eat walnuts every day?" Yes, you can include walnuts in your daily diet, but moderation is key. While walnuts are high in calories due to their fat content, these are healthy fats that provide numerous health benefits. Aim for a small handful (about 1 ounce) per day as part of a balanced diet.

Sustainability

Walnuts are also a sustainable food choice. They are grown in various regions and have a lower environmental impact compared to many other nuts. Choosing walnuts supports sustainable farming practices and provides a nutritious, eco-friendly option for your diet.

In summary, walnuts are a highly nutritious food that offers numerous health benefits for managing PCOS. Their omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, fiber, and antioxidants support heart health, reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote overall well-being. With their versatility and delicious taste, walnuts are an excellent addition to any diet focused on PCOS management.

Ingredients

1 pound cultured unsalted butter, such as Plugra, cut into small cubes, plus 1 tablespoon at room temperature
2 cups sugar
3 teaspoons sea salt
4 cups chopped walnuts
2 cups chopped milk chocolate
2 cups chopped dark chocolate
Special equipment: 13-by-18-inch rimmed baking sheet; a candy thermometer; a spider skimmer; long tweezers or a pair of chopsticks

Instructions

Generously grease a 13-by18-inch rimmed baking sheet with the 1 tablespoon softened butter, making sure to grease the corners of the pan. Set the prepared baking sheet aside on a heat-safe surface, like a large wood cutting board.
Place the remaining 1 pound butter, sugar and 1 teaspoon of the sea salt in a cast-iron skillet set over high heat and whisk occasionally until the butter melts. Reduce the heat to medium-high and cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture has slightly thickened and is tan in color, about 20 minutes. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue to cook while whisking constantly until the mixture has reached 305 degrees F (the hard crack stage), about 10 minutes.
Using thick oven mitts (the pan will be extremely hot) immediately pour the hot mixture into the prepared baking sheet, tilting it to get an even layer. (Note: Hot sugar syrup will burn and stick to your skin; be careful when pouring to avoid splattering.) Cool the buttercrunch until it is slightly set but still soft, about 5 minutes. Using a knife or bench scraper, score the buttercrunch into 1-inch squares. The score marks will close up while the mixture is still hot, so just keep making the score marks until they remain in place, then let the buttercrunch cool completely, about 1 hour. Break the buttercrunch into pieces along the score lines and place the pieces in a bowl.
While the buttercrunch cools, toast the walnuts: Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast them, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant and the skins are starting to flake, about 45 minutes. Remove the walnuts from the oven and set them aside to cool completely. Place the walnuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Transfer the chopped nuts to a medium bowl and sprinkle the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt over them, tossing to combine.
While the nuts toast, temper the chocolate: Bring a saucepan filled with 1 inch of water to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, add 1 1/2 cups of milk chocolate and 1 1/2 cups of dark chocolate to a large heat-safe bowl, and set it over the hot water (make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the simmering water). Melt the chocolate, stirring often, until completely smooth (you can also melt the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl at 50 percent power, stirring every 1 1/2 minutes until the chocolate is completely melted, 4 to 6 minutes). Remove the chocolate from the saucepan. Off the heat, stir in the remaining chopped milk and dark chocolate a little at a time until the chocolate being added no longer melts into the mass. Once this happens, the chocolate is tempered.
Line a large baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Set the 3 bowls side-by-side: buttercrunch, chocolate and then the walnuts. Set a spider skimmer next to the bowls with a pair of long tweezers (or chopsticks). Drop a few pieces of the buttercrunch into the chocolate. Use the skimmer to submerge them, then use the skimmer to scoop and lift the buttercrunch out of the chocolate, tapping the skimmer handle on the rim of the bowl a couple of times to drain the excess chocolate. While holding the chocolate in the spider, use your other hand and the tweezers to transfer the chocolate-coated pieces of buttercrunch in the bowl of walnuts. Set the pieces in one by one, and take care so they dont touch one another. Gently sprinkle the walnuts over the dipped buttercrunch pieces to cover them completely, then carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheet to set completely, about 20 minutes. Repeat with the remaining pieces of buttercrunch.
The Buttercrunch Toffee can be stored in an airtight container at cool room temperature (approximately 65 degrees F.), for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
NotesThis recipe was provided by a chef, restaurant or culinary professional and may have been scaled down from a bulk recipe. The Food Network Kitchens have not tested it for home use and therefore cannot make any representation as to the results.