Those with an allergy to gluten may feel as though they miss out on many different treats, although this does not have to be the case. In fact, there are many gluten free variations of all your favourite types of food, for those with a sweet tooth or those who prefer something more savoury. Here are 5 of the best gluten free recipes that you can try at home.
1) Master the Gluten Free Macaroon
Everybody knows and loves macaroons, they are a sweet treat that can be drizzled in chocolate or eaten just as they are. Coconut macaroons are completely gluten free, meaning you can make a whole batch of these tasty desserts for you and your friends and family.
Preheat your oven to 165 degree Celsius (gas mark 4) and line 3 large baking trays with parchment.
Beat 115g of unsalted butter in a bowl until smooth, before adding in 150g of sugar and 1/8th of a teaspoon of salt and beat again until blended.
Add 2 teaspoons of finely grated orange peel and 3 large eggs, one at a time.
Next, mix in 680g of sweetened, flaked coconut to create the desired consistency.
Using a tablespoon carefully place the batter onto your parchment around 3cm apart until each tray is full.
Bake the macaroons 1 tray at a time in the centre of the over for 25-30 minutes until golden and leave to cool before tucking in or drizzling with chocolate.
2) Rich and Creamy Gluten Free Sweet Potato Soup
There is nothing quite like soup to warm you during these winter months. This perfect blend of sweet potato and cheese creates a gorgeous rich and creamy gluten free soup.
Melt 2tbsp of unsalted butter in a pan and add 2 peeled, finely chopped shallots until browned.
Peel 4 large sweet potatoes and cut into thick slices before adding them into the saucepan with 125ml of dry white wine.
Reduce until half of the liquid is absorbed and then add enough water to cover the potatoes.
Cook until the potatoes are tender, around 20 minutes normally, although you may need to add more water.
Purée the potatoes in a food blender and add 2tbsp salted butter and 3tbsp of crème fraiche.
Finally, stir in 200g of Gouda cheese until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
3) Yummy Mushroom, Red Pepper and Rocket Salad
A gorgeous starter for guests, or even just as a lunchtime treat for yourself. This gluten free salad is yummy during the summer or winter!
Sauté 200g of mushrooms in butter or oil until tender (around 5 minutes) before combining with the 100g of fresh rocket, 200g roasted red peppers (from a jar).
Slice 1 medium sized red chilli, rip 50g of basil leaves and crush 2 garlic cloves to add into the mix. Add the rind of 1 lemon before tossing the salad well. Add the juice of half a lemon, 3tbsp of olive oil and top with some Parmesan cheese before serving.
4) Tantalizing Toffee Bananas
Quick, easy and completely delicious. Great served with gluten free vanilla ice cream or just on their own.
Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a small frying pan on a medium heat.
Add 3 tablespoons of dark brown sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
Halve 2 bananas, place them in the butter and sugar mix and cook for 2 minutes on each side until completely soft and caramelised.
5) Gluten Free Bread
Gluten free bread can be hard and complex without a bread machine, or without the proper recipe.
You can just substitute normal flour for gluten free flour although there are better ways if you know how. It may be an idea to attend a cooking class or school to get the best tips and advice on baking bread ready for those with gluten allergies.
Author Bio:
Emily Johnston is a fitness writer who understands that for some the gym is not such a fun pastime. This is why she enjoys writing as she can erase the myths, educate and help people get healthy in a fun non threatening way. She recommends if you need a little more gluten free advice in taking a cookery class to better inform you.