For many families, traditional recipes are the cornerstone of mealtime gatherings, passing down cherished flavours from one generation to the next. However, for those who follow a gluten-free diet, whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or personal preference, enjoying these classic dishes can sometimes be a challenge.
But fear not! With a little creativity and some smart ingredient swaps, you can recreate those beloved family favourites without compromising on taste or texture. Gluten is found in many everyday cereal grains; including wheat, barley and rye. Therefore, most bread and breakfast cereal products are off the menu. But did you know, gluten can also be found hiding in products such as soya sauce, ketchup, lager and even some ice creams?
In this blog post, we’ll explore some mouthwatering gluten-free twists on classic dishes that will keep everyone at the table, regardless of dietary restrictions, delighted and satisfied.
Pizza night
Who doesn’t love pizza night? To make a gluten-free version, start with a cauliflower or almond flour crust. These alternatives not only provide a delicious base but also add a nutritional boost. Top with your favourite sauce, a sprinkle of dairy-free or regular cheese and an array of veggies or meats. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbly, and you have a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a new favourite tradition.
Comforting mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food. To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa or legumes. For the sauce, whisk together gluten-free flour or cornflour with milk and cheese until you reach that familiar creamy consistency. Bake it topped with breadcrumbs made from crushed gluten-free crackers or pretzels for a crunchy finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Finger-licking fried chicken
The key to a successful gluten-free fried chicken lies in the breading. Traditional recipes call for wheat flour, but there are many pre-made gluten-free flour blends available that work wonderfully for fried chicken and that can achieve a similar, if not better, crunch and taste. These often include a mix of rice flour, potato starch, tapioca starch and xanthan gum, which provide a light and crispy texture.
Perfect pancakes
Your weekend breakfast just got better with fluffy gluten-free pancakes. Use a blend of gluten-free flours such as oat, buckwheat or a pre-made gluten-free flour mix. Add baking powder, a sprinkle of sugar and your wet ingredients to create a batter that yields light and airy pancakes. Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for a breakfast treat that will start your day off just right.
Hearty shepherd’s pie
A hearty shepherd’s pie is the ultimate comfort dish – especially in autumn and winter. Replace traditional flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder in your meat filling. Top with creamy mashed potatoes (made with gluten-free broth or milk) and bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a filling, savoury meal without any gluten.
Crumbly chocolate chip cookies
No round-up of family favourites would be complete without cookies. Swap out the plain white flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend in your cookie dough. Combine all the usual suspects like sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla, and fold in plenty of dark, milk or white chocolate chips. Bake until they’re just right – crispy on the edges and soft and chewy in the middle. These cookies will disappear as quickly as their traditional counterparts.
Gluten-free conclusion
Transitioning to a gluten-free diet doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to the flavours and recipes that have brought your family joy over the years. With these delicious gluten-free twists on classic family favourites, you can continue to celebrate mealtime traditions while catering to everyone’s dietary needs. Experiment with different gluten-free ingredients and find the perfect substitutes that work for you and your family. Happy cooking, and may your gluten-free feasts be as memorable as they are delicious!
