Lunch: Sour Orange Pork with Sweet Potato-Hash, Fried Eggs and Sofrito Hollandaise

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Sour Orange Pork with Sweet Potato-Hash, Fried Eggs and Sofrito Hollandaise

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 canola oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
12 cloves garlic, made into a paste
1 bone-in pork shoulder (about 4 pounds), trimmed of excess fat
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cups chicken stock
4 cups sour orange juice (or 3 cups fresh orange juice plus 1 cup fresh lime juice)
1/4 cup honey
Sweet Potato Hash, recipe follows
4 to 6 fried or poached eggs
Sofrito Hollandaise, recipe follows
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Whisk together 1/2 cup canola oil, oregano and garlic in a large roasting pan. Add the pork and turn to coat. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours.
Remove the pork from the refrigerator 30 minutes before roasting. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Sprinkle the pork all over with salt and pepper. Heat the roasting pan with the pork and marinade over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until dark brown. Add the chicken stock and cover. Place in the oven and let braise until a thermometer inserted into the center reaches about 195 degrees F, 3 1/2 hours. Let the pork rest in the braising liquid for 15 minutes.
While the pork is cooking, put the sour orange juice and honey in a large saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce to 2 cups (it will be a syrup consistency). Let cool to room temperature.
Shred the pork using 2 forks or your hands. In a medium saucepan, toss the shredded pork with the orange honey glaze and reheat over medium heat. Serve the pork on top of some Sweet Potato Hash, topped with the eggs and Sofrito Hollandaise. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cover the potatoes with cold water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain the potatoes and dice.
Heat about 1 tablespoon canola oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the country ham and cook, turning once, until golden brown on both sides. Remove to a cutting board and coarsely chop.
Toss the potatoes and ham with the cilantro, chipotles, honey and scallions, and mix gently until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Using a potato masher, gently work the mixture together-it should still be fairly chunky.
Heat the butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the potato mixture and press into the skillet with spatula. Cook, scraping and turning as the bottom browns, until it is hot and filled with crispy bits. Divide among 4 to 6 dinner plates.
Heat the oil in a small saute pan over high heat. Add the onions and poblano and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the sofrito from the heat and let cool slightly.
Place the vinegar and egg yolks in a medium stainless steel bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Whisk the yolks until pale yellow and fluffy. Slowly add the melted butter, a few tablespoons at a time, and whisk until thickened. Stir in the sofrito and sour orange juice. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm until ready to use.

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