Lunch: Hot and Sticky Noodle Bowls with Chicken, Chiles and Green Beans

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Hot and Sticky Noodle Bowls with Chicken, Chiles and Green Beans

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

12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken, white or dark meat
1 pound green beans, trimmed or Chinese long beans, cut into 3- to 4-inch pieces
3 tablespoons vegetable or peanut oil, plus more to reheat
Freshly ground black pepper
4 cloves garlic, chopped or sliced
2 red Fresno chiles or red long chiles, seeded and chopped or sliced
1 small onion, halved and sliced
1 inch ginger root, grated
1/2 cup chicken stock
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce or liquid amino
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt
1 pound spaghetti or whole wheat or whole-grain spaghetti

Instructions

Place the chicken in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm it up. When firm, thinly slice the chicken on an angle and reserve.
Bring a few inches of water to a boil and fill a medium bowl with ice water. Par cook the beans, 3 to 4 minutes, then shock in the ice water. Drain and pat the beans dry, and reserve for later use.
Heat half of the vegetable oil over high heat in large skillet. Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle with black pepper. Add the chicken to the hot pan and stir-fry until brown, then remove. Add the remaining vegetable oil, and heat it up. Then add the beans and stir-fry until they begin to brown. Add the garlic, chiles, onions and ginger, and stir-fry until tender-crisp, 2 to 3 minutes more. Add the stock, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, Sriracha and sesame oil. Toss to combine, and then turn off heat. Cool and store for a make-ahead meal.
To serve, bring the chicken mixture to room temp for a few minutes and heat a pot of water to boil for the noodles. Salt the water and cook the pasta to al dente.
Heat 1 tablespoon of the stir-fry oil in large skillet over high heat and quickly heat up the chicken mixture. Drain the noodles and toss with the chicken. Top with sesame seeds and scallions.

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