Lunch: Camembert and Roasted Garlic

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Camembert and Roasted Garlic

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

2 bulbs of garlic, unpeeled with the tops sliced off
3 tbsp/1 1/2 oz/40g butter
Scant 1/3 cup/3fl oz/80ml extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 squidge of honey
2 fresh rosemary sprigs
3 bay leaves
7 to 9oz/200 to 250g Camembert, plastic wrapping and lid removed but still in its wooden box, at room temperature
1 French baguette, ripped into 4in/10cm pieces and sliced horizontally

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the garlic cut side down in a large roasting pan. Add the butter, oil, a pinch of salt, a couple of twists of black pepper, the honey, rosemary, and bay leaves and bake in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. After 30 to 35 minutes, put a large cross in the top of the Camembert and add it to the oven. Make sure the plastic covering and lid is removed, but it is still in its cardboard box. Add the French baguette to warm up too. Once the garlic is soft, the bread is extra crunchy, and the cheese is all soft and gooey, remove from the oven. Serve everything on a big sharing plate. Break off a piece of crusty bread, then squeeze out the tender flesh of the garlic along with a healthy dose of cheese and smear it liberally over the bread. Serve with a chutney or relish and a good glass of red wine.