The latter part of autumn tends to send our mood and vitality into a tailspin. But there's no question of letting ourselves go! We've come up with 3 menu ideas to fill you up with energy, to be cooked in Kokko of course! And yes, as you know, grilled, roasted or smoked, all dishes are magnified on the barbecue!
The transition from November to December is often synonymous with fatigue and low morale. The cause? Shorter and shorter days with little natural light, temperatures flirting with zero, winter fast approaching, and so on. And all that's without mentioning the second confinement, which has a negative impact on the physical and mental energy of many of us. So, to remedy the situation, it's first and foremost on your plate! By choosing the right foods, you'll fill up on vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and regain the energy you need to face this difficult period as peacefully as possible.
Kokko's all-fish menu to give you a boost
Excellent for your health, fish is too often overlooked. Yet it is rich in vitamins A, D, E, zinc, phosphorus, iodine and omega-3. These fatty acids are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and help prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease. Not to mention the fact that fish is rich in protein, which helps prevent hunger pangs between meals - particularly tempting when you spend most of your time at home, as we are forced to do at the moment.ANSES (Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire de l'Alimentation, de l'Environnement et du Travail) recommends eating fish twice a week, alternating oily and lean fish.
Starters : Mussel and tomato brochettes or razor clams in Kokko sauce
Main course: Salmon brochettes with lemon and butternut steak or smoked trout with spinach gratin
Dessert: Pineapple with rosemary or pineapple flavoured with caramelised ginger
Seafood is extremely rich in vitamins and trace elements. Particularly iodine, which is involved in the proper functioning of the nervous system and in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which influence numerous bodily functions. When the thyroid gland is dysregulated, it can lead to fatigue, stress, irritability and weight gain... Salmon and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty fish. Butternut, a seasonal vegetable, is rich in carotenoids, antioxidants that combat the free radicals responsible for cell aging. Not to mention its high fibre content, which helps regulate intestinal transit. Spinach is rich in vitamins and iron. Iron deficiency is often responsible for fatigue and loss of energy. To optimise its assimilation by the body, combine spinach with vitamin C, for example, by drizzling it with lemon juice. Finally, pineapple is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and helps prevent heartburn and bloating. Ginger, a powerful anti-inflammatory and fortifier, is ideal in winter to boost the immune system. As for rosemary, it acts both on the digestive system to relieve it, and on the nervous system to regulate it in cases of nervousness or fatigue.
Don't miss your dish our tips for successful barbecued fish!
Vegetarian menu at Kokko for top energy
If meat and fish don't appeal to you, don't worry, Kokko has put together a vegetarian menu for you!
Starters : Tandoori sweet potato skewer
Main course: Thai vegetable wok
Dessert: Wood-fired banana crumble
Rich in beta-carotene (a precursor of vitamin A), antioxidants and vitamin C, sweet potatoes are excellent for your health. As for tandoori, an Indian blend of spices such as garlic, chili, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, pepper and many others, it contains large quantities of polyphenols, the largest family of antioxidants. Polyphenols help fight a wide range of pathologies by slowing cell ageing and regulating cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure.
Soy sprouts, or mung beans, are a legume that can easily replace meat or fish, providing the necessary proteins and amino acids. Beansprouts are also a source of numerous minerals, such as copper, iron and zinc, which are essential for a healthy body. Finally, the banana, renowned for being packed with vitamins and satiating, prevents cravings outside mealtimes, notably because the sugars it contains are 'slow' carbohydrates that help regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, its high potassium content helps prevent and reduce hypertension. Accompanied by Goji berries and Cranberries, rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, this dessert is a real energy-booster and anti-fatigue cocktail.
Barbecue lovers vs. vegans: what if we could make up around the barbecue?
Mixed menu at Kokko to keep you in top shape
Meat or fish, you don't want to make a choice, so Kokko has prepared a mixed menu for you!
Starters : Oriental-style grilled mackerel or rabbit brochettes with honey and prunes
Main course: Scallops and lentils with sun-dried tomatoes or filet mignon stuffed with dried fruit
Dessert: Grilled bananas or caramelised pineapple
As well as being a source of omega-3, mackerel is an inexpensive fatty fish. Rich in protein and low in fat, rabbit is a lean meat. Most of thefatty acids it contains are good for your health, helping to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Rabbit is also packed with vitamins, particularly from the B group , such as vitamin B3, which boosts energy production. Prunes and dried fruits such as apricots, figs and almonds are also rich in vitamins and minerals, and are particularly recommended for boosting energy during periods of sluggishness. As for honey, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiseptic, it is renowned for boosting the immune system.
For dessert, choose a banana with its high magnesium content, which helps combat fatigue and nervousness, orpineapple, which is an excellent source of vitamin C and aids digestion.
Preparation tips: Whenever possible, choose fresh, seasonal produce (see December's list). Opt for organic fruit and vegetables, and look out for labels on meat, fish and seafood. To preserve the vitamins in your food, eat it as soon as possible after purchase, avoid storing it too long in the fridge, and opt for short, gentle cooking times. With Kokko, nothing is too complicated. master indirect cooking! Enjoy your meal!
