Lunch: Honey-Turmeric Pork with Beet and Carrot Salad

Recipe by /contributors/alison-roman A little honey in the marinade helps these cutlets caramelize, guaranteeing they'll be nicely browned despite the super-short cooking time.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Honey

Health benefits of Honey-Turmeric Pork with Beet and Carrot Salad

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

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 1/4 pounds boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), fat trimmed to 1/4", cut into 4 pieces
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
1 1/2 teaspoons finely grated peeled turmeric or 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons (or more) fresh lemon juice, divided
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 small beets, scrubbed, thinly sliced
3 small carrots, preferably with tops, tops reserved, carrots scrubbed, cut on a diagonal
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons olive oil
Flaky sea salt

Instructions

Pound pork between 2 sheets of plastic wrap to 1/4" thick; season with kosher salt and pepper. Whisk garlic, turmeric, yogurt, honey, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl; season with kosher salt and pepper. Place cutlets in a large resealable bag. Add yogurt mixture, seal bag, and toss to coat. Let sit at least 10 minutes.
Remove cutlets from marinade, letting excess drip off. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high; cook 2 cutlets until browned and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer pork to a platter. Wipe out skillet; repeat with remaining cutlets and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
Toss beets, carrots, carrot tops (if using), chives, olive oil, and remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with kosher salt, pepper, and more lemon juice, if desired. Serve pork topped with salad and sprinkled with sea salt.

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