Did you know that May is Celiac Awareness Month? This Meatless Monday, cook with naturally gluten-free grains such as quinoa and teff.
Did you know that May is Celiac Awareness Month? While research into gluten-free diets is ongoing, those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity simply can’t digest gluten. So today, we’re featuring grain-based recipes that both meat- and gluten-free folks can enjoy.
Naturally gluten-free grains
A recent Jimmy Kimmel sketch poked fun at people for not knowing what gluten is, but it’s actually pretty simple. Gluten is a type of protein found in certain grains, such as barley, wheat, and rye. Gluten-free grains (and grainlike seeds), on the other hand, include:
- quinoa
- rice
- teff
- millet
- amaranth
- buckwheat
The best part—gluten-free recipes!
1. Quinoa Spring Salad
Quinoa is the undisputed queen of gluten-free grains. This protein-rich seed, along with nutty hempseeds and pistachios, makes for a filling meal-worthy salad. A tangy vinaigrette sweetened with maple syrup is the perfect finishing touch.
2. Vegetarian Paella
Rice may not be the latest superfood, but it is a reliable go-to grain. It’s also a traditional ingredient in paella, a well-known Spanish dish. This paella recipe is chock-full of colourful components such as red bell pepper and edamame. Plus, its smoky flavour is mild enough to suit all levels of spice tolerance.
3. Soba Noodles with Almond Sauce and Pan-Seared Tofu
As far as I’m concerned, anything with peanut (or almond) butter is a win. This soba noodle dish is no exception. Although not a grain, per se, soba noodles are naturally gluten free thanks to their buckwheat base. Look for labels that say “100% buckwheat” to avoid wheat additives. You’ll also want to choose gluten-free tamari soy sauce, as many conventional soy sauces do contain wheat (and therefore gluten).
4. Mediterranean Walnut Stuffed Bell Peppers
Make way for millet! Popular in India, this underappreciated grain is more than just birdseed. It brings a mild, slightly nutty taste and fluffy texture to these stuffed bell peppers, which are also flavoured by pomegranate seeds and herbs.
5. Teff Asparagus Quiche
This healthy-yet-indulgent quiche, made with almond and teff flour, is perfect for a family dinner. Teff may seem exotic, but it can be found at many health food stores. Spring-friendly asparagus, soft goat cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes also add some “yum” factor to the filling.
