Lunch: Grilled Steaks with Sweet-Spicy Hoisin Sauce

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Grilled Steaks with Sweet-Spicy Hoisin Sauce

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

1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus more for rubbing
4 medium shallots, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
1/3 cup hoisin sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup chicken stock
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Six 1/2-pound strip steaks
2 large sweet onions, sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Light a grill. In a medium saucepan, heat the 1/4 cup of oil. Add the shallots, garlic, ginger, crushed red pepper and cilantro and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Add the hoisin, soy sauce and chicken stock, raise the heat to moderately high and boil until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the honey. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter until blended; keep warm.
Generously rub the steaks and onions with oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the steaks over high heat for 4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and medium-rare. Transfer the steaks to a carving board and let rest for 5 minutes. Grill the onions for 4 minutes per side, or until charred. Transfer the onions to a platter.
Thickly slice the steaks and arrange on the platter. Serve with the steak sauce.