Lunch: Goat Cheese Squares with Raspberry Chile Chutney

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Apple Cider Vinegar

Health benefits of Goat Cheese Squares with Raspberry Chile Chutney

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 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-salt chicken broth
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup honey
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 canned chipotle chile in adobo sauce, left whole
1 (6-ounce) container fresh raspberries or 1 cup frozen (thawed)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 sheet frozen puff pastry (half of a 17.3-ounce package), thawed
Flour, for dusting
1 (5.5-ounce) log goat cheese, at room temperature

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add the chicken broth, bell pepper, honey, ginger, vinegar, and chipotle chile, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2 1/2 hours. Add the raspberries and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let the chutney cool slightly. Stir in the cilantro and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. (Chutney can be prepared 3 days in advance. Cool and store in the refrigerator).
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a 12-inch square. Cut the pastry into 2 to 3-inch squares. Put the squares on the prepared baking sheet. Using a small cookie cutter score a circle in the center of each square or using a paring knife, score a 1/2-inch border around the edge of each square. Bake the squares until puffed and golden, about 12 minutes.
Remove the scored, top section of the cooked pastry and fill with some of the goat cheese. Spoon a generous dollop of the chipotle-raspberry chutney on top of the goat cheese. Arrange on a serving platter and serve.

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