Erin Farmer

The Ultimate Gluten-Free Pantry Guide: Stock Your Kitchen for Success

When starting a gluten-free lifestyle, stocking your pantry with the right ingredients is essential. A well-prepared kitchen allows you to create delicious, satisfying meals while avoiding gluten. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential items to have on hand, plus some tips for finding and buying the best gluten-free products.

  1. Gluten-Free Flours:
  • Almond flour: A versatile option for baking and breading, providing a nutty flavor
  • Coconut flour: A low-carb, high-fiber alternative, excellent for sweet baked goods
  • Rice flour: A mild-tasting, all-purpose flour suitable for a variety of dishes
  • Tapioca flour: A starchy thickening agent, ideal for sauces, soups, and gravies
  • Oat flour: Be sure to choose certified gluten-free oats, as cross-contamination can be a concern
  • Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends: For ease, look for blends that can be substituted 1:1 for wheat flour in recipes
  1. Grains and Pasta:
  • Quinoa: A protein-packed, versatile grain that’s great for salads, pilafs, and porridge
  • Brown and white rice: A staple in gluten-free cooking, providing a base for many dishes
  • Gluten-free pasta: Look for options made from rice, corn, quinoa, or chickpeas
  • Gluten-free oats: Perfect for breakfast and baking, but always choose certified gluten-free
  1. Bread and Crackers:
  • Gluten-free bread: Many brands now offer delicious gluten-free bread in various flavors and textures
  • Gluten-free tortillas: Great for wraps, tacos, and quesadillas
  • Rice cakes and gluten-free crackers: Ideal for snacking, as a base for appetizers, or with soups and salads
  1. Pantry Staples:
  • Gluten-free soy sauce and tamari: Essential for Asian-inspired dishes
  • Gluten-free stock and broth: Look for brands that clearly state they’re gluten-free
  • Canned beans and legumes: A protein-rich addition to salads, soups, and stews
  • Nuts and seeds: Nutritious snacking options and perfect for adding crunch and flavor to dishes
  • Dried fruits: Great for snacking and baking, providing natural sweetness
  • Gluten-free condiments: Be mindful of sauces, mustards, and salad dressings, as some may contain gluten
  1. Baking Essentials:
  • Xanthan gum: A thickening agent that provides elasticity in gluten-free baking
  • Baking powder and baking soda: Double-check labels to ensure they’re gluten-free
  • Gluten-free chocolate chips: For your sweet tooth and all your baking needs
  • Gluten-free sprinkles and decorations: To add a touch of fun to your baked goods
  1. Snacks:
  • Gluten-free granola bars: Check labels for hidden gluten-containing ingredients
  • Popcorn: A whole-grain, naturally gluten-free snack
  • Gluten-free pretzels and chips: Satisfy your cravings with these gluten-free alternatives

A well-stocked gluten-free pantry is the key to a smooth and enjoyable gluten-free lifestyle. By keeping these essentials on hand, you’ll be ready to whip up delicious meals and snacks without worrying about gluten contamination. Remember to read labels carefully, as ingredients can change, and keep exploring new gluten-free products as they hit the market. With a well-prepared kitchen, your gluten-free journey can be a delicious adventure.

Gluten-free Meal Prep: Tips and Recipes for Healthy Eating

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you know how important it is to plan ahead and be prepared. One of the best ways to do that is by meal prepping. Not only does it save time and reduce stress during the week, but it also ensures that you have healthy, gluten-free meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and recipes for gluten-free meal prep to help you stay on track with your diet and feel your best.

Tips for Gluten-Free Meal Prep

Plan your meals ahead of time. Set aside some time each week to plan your meals and make a grocery list. This will help you avoid last-minute decisions and ensure that you have all the ingredients you need for your gluten-free meals.

Use gluten-free staples. Stock up on gluten-free staples like quinoa, brown rice, gluten-free oats, and gluten-free pasta. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes.

Cook in batches. Make a big batch of your favorite gluten-free dish, like soup or chili, and freeze the leftovers in individual portions. This will save you time and ensure that you always have a healthy, gluten-free meal on hand.

Invest in quality food storage containers. Look for containers that are microwave-safe and freezer-safe, and that come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different meals.

Prep your ingredients in advance. Chop vegetables, cook rice, and grill chicken in advance so that they’re ready to go when you need them. This will save you time during the week and make meal prep a breeze.

Gluten-Free Meal Prep Recipes

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Feta
Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
2 red bell peppers, sliced
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F.

In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.

Meanwhile, cook quinoa according to package directions.

Combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables in a large bowl. Add feta cheese and toss to combine. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
4 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons coconut oil
2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add coconut oil and sliced chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Add broccoli, red bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Add to the skillet and stir to coat the vegetables.
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Serve immediately.
In conclusion, gluten-free meal prep can be a game-changer for those following a gluten-free diet. By planning ahead, using gluten-free staples, cooking in batches, investing in quality food storage containers, and prepping ingredients in advance, you can save time and ensure that you always have healthy, gluten-free meals on hand. By using the tips and recipes provided in this blog post, you’ll be well on your way to successful gluten-free meal prep.

If you follow a gluten-free diet, meal prep can be a lifesaver. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure that you have healthy and delicious gluten-free meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes. In this blog post, we will share some tips and ideas for gluten-free meal prep that will make your life easier and your meals more enjoyable.

5 Best Gluten-Free Cereals for a Healthy Breakfast

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, finding the right breakfast cereal can be a challenge. Many popular cereal brands contain gluten, which can cause problems for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Fortunately, there are many gluten-free cereals on the market that are both healthy and delicious. Here are the top 5 gluten-free cereals you should consider for a nutritious breakfast.

Cheerios Cheerios are made from whole grain oats and are gluten-free. They are also low in sugar and contain 3 grams of fiber per serving. Cheerios come in a variety of flavors, including Honey Nut Cheerios, Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, and Multigrain Cheerios.
Chex Chex is another popular gluten-free cereal brand that offers a wide variety of flavors. Chex cereals are made from whole grains and are low in sugar. They also provide 2-3 grams of fiber per serving. Popular Chex flavors include Rice Chex, Corn Chex, and Chocolate Chex.
Rice Krispies Rice Krispies are a classic breakfast cereal that are naturally gluten-free. They are made from rice and contain no artificial colors or flavors. Rice Krispies are also low in sugar and provide 1 gram of fiber per serving.
Nature’s Path Nature’s Path is a brand that specializes in organic and gluten-free breakfast cereals. Their products include gluten-free versions of classic cereals like Corn Flakes, Oatmeal, and Granola. Nature’s Path cereals are made with whole grains and are free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
Magic Spoon Magic spoon is a newer brand that offers a range of gluten-free cereal options. Their cereals are made with wholesome ingredients and are gluten and grain free. Popular Magic Spoon cereals include Cocoa, Frosted, and Fruity flavors.

Gluten-Free Baking Made Easy: A Guide to Flour Options

Admit it, you love a good chocolate chip cookie or a big slice of birthday cake but your gluten allerges or Celiac’s disease is holding you back from enjoying these sweet treats. Well, fear not, you have some great at home options to bake the treats you crave!

There are many gluten-free flour options available for baking at home. Here are some popular ones:

Almond Flour: Almond flour is made from ground almonds and has a slightly nutty flavor. It works well in baked goods like cakes, cookies, and muffins.

Coconut Flour: Coconut flour is made from ground coconut and is high in fiber. It works well in baked goods like bread, muffins, and pancakes.

Rice Flour: Rice flour is made from ground rice and is a versatile flour that works well in a variety of baked goods like cakes, cookies, and bread.

Buckwheat Flour: Buckwheat flour is made from ground buckwheat and has a slightly earthy flavor. It works well in baked goods like pancakes, waffles, and bread.

Oat Flour: Oat flour is made from ground oats and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It works well in baked goods like muffins, cookies, and bread.

Corn Flour: Corn flour is made from ground corn and has a slightly sweet flavor. It works well in baked goods like cornbread and muffins.

Sorghum Flour: Sorghum flour is made from ground sorghum and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It works well in baked goods like bread, muffins, and cakes.

When using gluten-free flours in baking, it’s important to note that they behave differently than wheat flour, so recipes may need to be adjusted. It’s also important to make sure that all other ingredients used in the recipe are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Looking for Gluten-Free baked goods? Here’s some options!

When you have a gluten intolerance or even Celiac’s disease, it’s hard to come by snacks and baked goods that don’t cause allergic reactions and other symptoms.

So, what do you do if you crave baked goods? Well, here’s a few options that might work for you! From pizza to Asian and even sweets like cupcakes can be found at various national chains. You can find a gluten-free bakery or restaurant to suit your needs.

Panera Bread: Panera Bread offers a range of gluten-free products, including bagels, bread, and pastries.

Dunkin’ Donuts: Dunkin’ Donuts offers gluten-free donuts and muffins in select locations.

Starbucks: Starbucks offers gluten-free options such as gluten-free breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and protein bowls.

Sprinkles Cupcakes: Sprinkles Cupcakes offers gluten-free cupcakes in select locations.

The Cheesecake Factory: The Cheesecake Factory offers a gluten-free menu, including gluten-free cheesecake.

P.F. Chang’s: P.F. Chang’s offers a gluten-free menu, including gluten-free appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

Blaze Pizza: Blaze Pizza offers a gluten-free crust option for its pizzas.

It’s important to note that not all locations of these chain bakeries may offer gluten-free options, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific location before ordering. Additionally, while these options may be gluten-free, they may still be prepared in a kitchen that uses gluten-containing ingredients, so cross-contamination is still possible.

Living with Gluten Allergy: Understanding Symptoms and Finding Relief

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. For some people, gluten can cause an allergic reaction that can lead to a range of symptoms. In this blog post, we’ll explore the symptoms of gluten allergy and some ways to relieve them.

Symptoms of Gluten Allergy

Digestive Issues: Gluten allergy can cause digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.

Skin Problems: Skin problems like eczema, hives, and rashes can be caused by gluten allergy.

Fatigue: Gluten allergy can cause fatigue and lack of energy.

Headaches: Headaches, migraines, and brain fog are common symptoms of gluten allergy.

Joint Pain: Joint pain and inflammation can be caused by gluten allergy.

Ways to Relieve Gluten Allergy Symptoms

Avoid Gluten: The most effective way to relieve gluten allergy symptoms is to avoid gluten altogether. This means avoiding foods that contain gluten such as bread, pasta, and cereal.

Read Labels: When shopping for food, read labels carefully to make sure they are gluten-free. Many processed foods contain gluten, so it’s important to check the ingredients list.

Cook at Home: Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid gluten-containing foods.

Take Enzymes: Taking digestive enzymes can help break down gluten and reduce symptoms.

Probiotics: Probiotics can help improve gut health and reduce inflammation in the gut caused by gluten allergy.

Exercise: Exercise can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health, which can help reduce gluten allergy symptoms.

Stress Management: Stress can worsen gluten allergy symptoms. Practicing stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and improve symptoms.

Gluten allergy can cause a range of symptoms that can be uncomfortable and disruptive. However, there are ways to relieve these symptoms. By avoiding gluten, reading labels, cooking at home, taking enzymes and probiotics, exercising, and managing stress, you can reduce the severity of gluten allergy symptoms and improve your overall health. If you suspect you have a gluten allergy, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Oat milk gluten free? Well, maybe…

 

Oat milk is naturally gluten-free. However, it can be contaminated with gluten during processing. Therefore, it is important to check the label to make sure that the oat milk you are buying is gluten-free.

Some brands of oat milk are certified gluten-free by third-party organizations, such as the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG). This means that the oat milk has been tested and found to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.

If you are not sure whether an oat milk is gluten-free, you can always ask the manufacturer or retailer.

Here are 5 brands that are gluten-free:

Oatly Barista Edition Oat Milk – Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Non GMO, Vegan

Califia Farms – Oat Barista Blend Oat Milk, 32 Oz (Pack of 6), Shelf Stable, Dairy Free, Plant Based, Vegan, Gluten Free, Non GMO, High Calcium, Milk Frother, Creamer, Oatmilk

RISE Brewing Co. | Barista Blend Oat Milk | USDA Organic & Non-GMO | Vegan & Non-Dairy | 32 fl. oz. Cartons (6 pack)

Planet Oat Oatmilk Without Lactose or Dairy NonGMO, Original, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 6)

Chobani Oat Milk, Plain Oat Barista Edition, Shelf Stable Non Dairy Milk, Creamer, Vegan Friendly, Gluten-Free, 32 FL OZ (Pack-6)