Nutty Date and Labneh Toast: A Nourishing Suhoor Meal

Embark on a culinary journey as we explore a recipe that's not just a treat to your taste buds but also a treasure trove of nutrients. This Nutty Date and Labneh Toast is perfect for Suhoor during Ramadan or as a revitalizing breakfast option. This dish harmonizes the hearty goodness of whole grains, the creamy delight of labneh, the natural sweetness of dates, and the satisfying crunch of almonds.

Ingredients (serves 1):

• 2 slices of whole grain bread
• 4 tablespoons of low-fat labneh
• 6 dates, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons of almonds, chopped
• A drizzle of honey (optional)
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. 1. Toast Your Bread: Start with toasting the whole grain bread to your preferred level of crispiness. Whole grain bread is not just a source of complex carbohydrates but also rich in B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin, and B6, essential for energy metabolism.

   2. Spread the Labneh: Apply a generous layer of low-fat labneh on each toast slice. Labneh, a Middle Eastern yogurt, is packed with probiotics, calcium, and phosphorus, promoting bone health and digestive wellness.

   3. Top with Dates and Almonds: Distribute the chopped dates over the labneh. Dates are a powerhouse of nutrients, offering potassium for heart health, magnesium for muscle function, and fiber for digestive health. Add the chopped almonds, which are rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects your cells from oxidative damage, and magnesium, vital for many bodily processes.

   4. Add Sweetness and Spice: Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness and sprinkle cinnamon for that extra flavor kick.

Nutritional Highlights:

• • Total Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: About 50g, including dietary fiber of roughly 8g, vital for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
  • Protein: Around 14g, essential for tissue repair and immune function.
  • Fat: Approximately 18g, mainly healthy unsaturated fats from almonds, supporting heart health.
  • Note: The exact nutritional content varies based on brand of products and quantity of ingredients.

Balancing Macros for Stable Blood Glucose Levels:

• Protein and Fat: The protein from labneh and the healthy fats from almonds slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.
• Fiber: Whole grain bread and almonds add dietary fiber, which not only aids in digestion but also slows down the overall digestion process, contributing to more stable blood sugar levels.
• Low Glycemic Index Ingredients: Choosing whole grain bread and incorporating nuts can help maintain a lower glycemic meal, which is beneficial for blood sugar control.
• Portion Control: Managing the portion size of dates and honey, both of which are higher in simple sugars, can help prevent sudden rise in blood glucose.

Tips for a Optimum Health:

1. Incorporate Variety: Pair this toast with a side of fresh berries or swap labneh with Greek yogurt for protein and antioxidants.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink water or herbal tea alongside your meal to aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.
3. Mindful Toppings: Adjust the amount of honey and dates based on your daily nutrition goals, especially if you're monitoring your blood sugar levels.

This Nutty Date and Labneh Toast offers a blend of delicious flavors and a bounty of nutrients, making it a perfect start to your day. Enjoy the richness of each bite, knowing you're nourishing your body with every delicious morsel.