Lunch: Corn Dogs

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Corn Dogs

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

8 cups (2 quarts) peanut or grapeseed oil, for frying
1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups buttermilk, plus more if needed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 large egg, beaten
6 hot dogs
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions

Special equipment: a deep-frying thermometer and 6 wooden skewers
In a large Dutch oven, heat the peanut oil to 350 degrees F over medium heat. Line a large plate or baking sheet with paper towels.
In a large bowl, sift together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, honey and egg and stir to combine. The batter should be a little thicker than pancake batter; it should fall off a spoon but not run off of it. If necessary, add more buttermilk 1 tablespoon at a time.
Dry the hot dogs thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Insert a skewer into the cut end of each hot dog, pushing it almost all the way through to the tip. Sprinkle the cornstarch onto a small plate and roll the hot dogs on the plate to lightly dust them with cornstarch. Gently tap the hot dogs to remove extra cornstarch.
Pour the batter into a tall drinking glass. Holding a skewered hot dog at the bottom of the skewer, dunk the hot dog straight down into the glass of batter so that it is fully immersed in the batter. Slowly pull the hot dog back out, ensuring that it is fully coated on all sides and allowing some of the excess batter to drip back into the glass. Immediately place the battered hot dog carefully into the hot oil while still holding the stick (with tongs). Cook until deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes, turning the stick as necessary to ensure even browning. Place the cooked corn dog on the plate of paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining hot dogs.
NotesThe key for success here is to have a thick, but not too thick, batter. If the batter is not adhering to the hot dog, it is too thick. Add more buttermilk to the batter, just 1 tablespoon at a time, and re-dip the hot dog. A very small amount of buttermilk can make a world of difference.

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