Aster Annual Calendar 2024

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HONEY

If you want a natural sweetener, go for honey

Fun Facts about Honey

  • Stone Age paintings from 8,000 years ago show ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans using honey.

  • Honey that is pulled early in July or August is characteristically light, while the lot harvested in September or October tends to be darker in colour.

  • Worker bees cover a distance equivalent to circling the Earth about four times to produce a pound of honey.

  • Honey contains hydrogen peroxide which forms a natural preservative and is among the few rare food that never spoils.

  • A single honeybee produces approximately 1/12th teaspoon of honey in their entire lifespan.

Here’s a guide on how to pick quality honey

Colour:

Honey comes in various colours, ranging from light to dark. The colour can indicate the floral source. Lighter honey is often milder in flavour, while darker honey tends to have a more robust taste.

Consistency:

Quality honey should have a smooth, uniform texture without any crystallisation or granulation. Crystalised honey is not necessarily bad, but some people prefer it in its liquid form.

Health Benefits of Honey

Rich in Antioxidants

throat

Treats Throat Infections

sugar

Healthy
Alternative to Sugar

metabolism

Regulates Metabolism

Two easy Honey recipes

Recipe 1: Healthy Honey Banana Smoothie Recipe Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup greek yogurt (unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup frozen berries (such as blueberries or strawberries)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
    Ice cubes (optional)

Directions:

  • In a blender, combine the ripe banana, greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
  • Add the frozen berries to the blender. This will add a natural sweetness and a burst of antioxidants.
  • If you desire extra nutritional benefits, add chia seeds to the blender. Chia seeds are a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and various nutrients.
  • Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add more milk.
  • Adjust the thickness by adding ice cubes if needed. Blend again until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness if necessary. You can add more honey if you prefer a sweeter taste.
  • Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately. You can garnish with additional berries or a drizzle of honey if desired.

Recipe 2: Healthy Honey Cake Recipe 
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup plain greek yoghurt

Directions:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • Whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and ginger in a medium bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, golden honey, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the ingredients melt into a smooth and luscious mixture, creating an aroma.
  • Add greek yogurt into the batter gently for a velvety blend, enhancing the creaminess and moistness in your honey cake.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Extend time if necessary, checking every 5 minutes. Avoid over-baking for a moist texture.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, and then drizzle the honey glaze over the top of the cake.
  • Sprinkle toasted chopped nuts over the honey glaze, and arrange sliced fruits for an added touch. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

For more easy and quick recipes with honey, watch these videos

For a healthy dessert recipe with Honey, watch this video.