Lunch: Cranberry-Orange Tart with Browned Butter Crust

For a pretty presentation, top the tart with sugared cranberries: Steep whole berries in simple syrup in the refrigerator 8 hours, then roll in sugar and let stand 1 hour to dry.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Cranberries

Health benefits of Cranberry-Orange Tart with Browned Butter Crust

Researchers believe that cranberries contain substances that prevent infection-causing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. However, store-bought cranberry juice is typically all sugar - so make sure to stick with straight cranberries.

Cranberries: The Unsung Hero in PCOS Management

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as one of the predominant hormonal disorders affecting many women across the globe. Finding effective and holistic methods to manage its array of symptoms is often a journey filled with trials and experiments. Amidst the vast spectrum of dietary recommendations, a certain ruby-red fruit emerges as a potential powerhouse: the humble cranberry.

Understanding Cranberries:

Native to North America, cranberries are tiny, tart berries packed with nutrients. They are most commonly known for their ability to support urinary tract health. However, their benefits extend far beyond that, making them a valuable addition to the diet of those managing PCOS.

• 1. Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries boast a high concentration of antioxidants, especially proanthocyanidins. These compounds can combat oxidative stress, which has been linked to insulin resistance, a common concern for those with PCOS.
• 2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory: Inflammation is often silently associated with PCOS. The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries can potentially aid in reducing systemic inflammation, indirectly supporting hormonal balance.
• 3. Supports Gut Health: A healthy gut can influence hormonal balance. The fibers and phytonutrients in cranberries promote a balanced gut microbiome, fostering good digestive health.
• 4. Low Glycemic Fruit: Dietary recommendations for PCOS often stress the importance of low glycemic index (GI) foods to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Cranberries fit the bill perfectly, allowing for a sweet treat without the blood sugar spike.

Incorporating Cranberries into Your Diet:

While cranberry juice is widely available, it's essential to opt for unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars. Fresh cranberries can be added to salads, smoothies, or baked goods. Dried cranberries, preferably unsweetened or minimally sweetened, can be a delicious addition to oatmeal, granolas, or as a simple snack.

PCOS management requires a multifaceted approach, and nutrition stands as one of its cornerstones. By integrating cranberries into a balanced diet, individuals with PCOS can harness their benefits, taking a flavorful step towards better health. As with all dietary changes, it's always a good practice to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure the best choices for individual health needs.

Ingredients

16 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 50 wafers)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon plus 1/8 teaspoon salt, divided
Cooking spray
3/4 cup fresh cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
4 teaspoons cornstarch, divided
5 large eggs, divided
2 tablespoons orange zest
1 cup fresh orange juice
2 large egg yolks

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 °. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat; cook 6 minutes or until golden brown, stirring frequently. Let cool 5 minutes.
Place wafer crumbs, brown sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in the bowl of a food processor; pulse to combine. Drizzle melted butter over top of crumb mixture; pulse to combine. Press crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch round removable-bottom tart pan coated with cooking spray. Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until crust is lightly browned. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Combine cranberries and 3 tablespoons water in the bowl of a food processor; process until smooth. Combine cranberry puree, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Whisk together 1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 egg in a medium bowl. Drizzle hot cran­berry mixture into egg mixture, whisking constantly until combined. Return mixture to pan over medium heat; cook, stirring constantly, about 3 minutes or until mixture thickens. Pour mixture through a fine wire-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing on solids with the back of a spoon; discard solids.
Combine orange zest and juice, remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, remaining 8 tablespoons butter, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Whisk together egg yolks, remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and remaining 4 eggs in a medium bowl. Gradually drizzle hot orange mixture into egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return mixture to pan over medium heat; cook 4 to 5 minutes or until mixture thickens, stirring constantly. Pour mixture through a fine wire-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids with the back of a spoon; discard solids. Spread orange filling into cooled crust, smoothing top. Spoon cranberry mixture over filling; smoothing top. Let tart cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours.

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