Lunch: Green Chile Tomatillo BBQ Sauce

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Green Chile Tomatillo BBQ 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 pound tomatillos, husked (about 8 medium)
1 small onion, quartered
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Kosher salt
1 jalapeno pepper, diced
1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
1 bunch fresh cilantro, stems and leaves separated
2 tablespoons tequila
Serving suggestions: chicken, pork, shrimp or fish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Toss the tomatillos and onion pieces in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of the oil and a sprinkle of salt. Transfer the whole lot to a sheet pan, and roast in the oven until the vegetables blister and collapse, about 25 minutes.
Heat the remaining teaspoon of oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and cook the jalapenos and poblanos until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the honey, vinegar, coriander, mustard, roasted vegetables and cilantro stems and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the sauce is slightly reduced and the roasted onions are very tender, about 20 minutes.
Transfer the sauce to a blender with the cilantro leaves and 2 teaspoons salt and blend until smooth. Stir in the tequila and season with more salt if desired. Use immediately, or refrigerate in a nonreactive container for up to 2 days.

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