Loving the BITE: Healthy Halloween Candy

Candy on the brain?  If you didn’t before, you probably do now.  But never fear, as we approach Halloween, and all the candy that comes with it, I have an easy recipe for a sweet treat that features an incredible SuperFood: Ginger.  Yes, this treat is a treat (I didn’t take out all the sugar or anything).  It is sweet.  But, the added sweetness doesn’t negate the wonderful goodness and nutrients found in the key ingredient.

If you’re gonna go sweet this next week, do it with some phytochemicals in tow…

Recipe of the week: Simple Candied Ginger

(adapted from http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/diy-recipe/diy-recipe-crystallized-ginger-069125)

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups sugar, plus extra sugar for coating
• 1 cup peeled and sliced ginger (use fresh ginger that’s firm, not spongy and slice it any way you like – both 1/8” coin-shaped or strips work well)

Instructions:

Combine water and 1 1/2 cups sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

Add ginger, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.

With a slotted spoon, transfer ginger to a wire rack (set over a pan or dish so your counter doesn’t get sticky).

Let stand until dry, and then roll slices in additional sugar.

Store in an airtight container for up to three months.

Comments:

Any readers who were kids or teens in the ‘80s most likely remember the urban myths about razors in the Halloween candy, right?  Of course, this led to less and less homemade Halloween handouts, and more over-priced, store-bought, junk candy.  Don’t get me wrong; at the time, I was happy to see the popcorn balls vanish and the Snickers fill my plastic pumpkin.  But now, many years, some experience and education, and one nutrition practice later, and I see the value in some good ol’ fashioned homemade treats.   So, while you might not hand these out at the door, you can at least keep these nutrient-packed, delicious treats handy at any parties, candy swaps, or office get-togethers.

Yes, I know it’s a lot of sugar.  But, the ginger underneath will give you these benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory nutrients called gingerols
• Anti-cancer nutrients that may inhibit colorectal cancer cell growth and cause ovarian cancer cell death
• Gastrontestinal relievers and aides
• Arthritis and arthritic-induced pain and swelling relief
• An immune boost!

Every once in a while, you should give into your sweet tooth, especially if the sweet treat treats your body sweet.  Then, cycle it off!

Fuel Your Ride.  Nourish Your Body. 

Tags: Candied Ginger Recipe, Healthy Halloween Candy, Nutrition