Lunch: Fresh Corn Muffins

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Fresh Corn Muffins

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 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup fine stone-ground cornmeal
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons rye flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup canola oil
1/4 cup honey
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup sugar
1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt
4 large eggs
1 cup fresh corn kernels (from 2 ears)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400° and line two 12-cup muffin tins with paper or foil liners. In a medium bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour with the cornmeal, rye flour, baking powder and baking soda. In another medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk with the oil and honey.
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle or using a handheld electric mixer, beat the butter, sugar and salt at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 1 to 2 minutes. Beat in the eggs 1 at a time, scraping down the side of the bowl as needed. Add the dry ingredients and beat at medium speed until evenly combined. At low speed, gradually beat in the buttermilk mixture until just incorporated, then fold in the corn.
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups. Bake for about 15 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of the muffins comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a rack to cool completely.

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