Tag: gluten free recipes

Millet and Buckwheat Toasting Bread

Millet Buckwheat Toasting Bread

I have been a home bread baker for many years, and despite a Celiac diagnosis in 2017 I continue to experiment with different recipes, always looking for that gluten free loaf that will make me smile.

This hearty toasting bread is made with whole grains and seeds that give it great texture.  It is full of flavor, fiber and nutrition, a welcome change from typical gluten free store breads made with refined flour.

The recipe is somewhat involved, and I get that it’s not for everyone.  But for all who want to give it a try, I have broken it down into small steps that are easy to follow.  The ingredients are bulleted, so you can easily look all the way through and see what you need.  I also provide a complete ingredient checklist at the end of the recipe, which can be printed and used as a shopping list.

This post contains affiliate links

You might be interested to know that I used a grain mill in this recipe.  I like to buy millet and buckwheat in whole form and mill them at home when I need flour.  Since this bread contains millet and buckwheat in both whole and flour form, I only need to stock the grain.

Adapted from a recipe by Ellen Brown, yield 1 loaf

*Contains Oats – see notes

Step 1 Mill (see Notes at bottom)

Mill the following grains on the finest setting.  You may have to add in a few more grams of each to end up with the finished weight in flour.  If you don’t have a grain mill don’t worry!  Just measure the exact weight in millet and buckwheat flour.

  • 120 g. millet
  • 45 g. buckwheat

Read more about how I use my grain mill in gluten free baking.

————————————

Step 2 Soak

Boil water.  Add the following whole grains (not flour), cover and remove from heat.  Soak for at least 10 minutes or until you are ready with the other ingredients.

————————————-

Step 3 Proof the yeast

Grind Chia seeds in a coffee grinder.  Combine with the following in a small bowl and proof for 10 minutes.

  • 1 tbsp. Chia seeds, ground
  • 2-¼ tsp. Instant yeast
  • 6 tbsp. Warm water
  • 2 tsp. Honey

————————————-

Step 4 Whisk together Dry Ingredients

  • Milled flours from Step 1
  • 45 g. cornstarch
  • 65 g. potato starch
  • 47 g. tapioca starch
  • 32 g. gluten free cornmeal
  • ½ tsp. Xanthan gum
  • ½ tsp. Salt
  • 2 tbsp. Sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup gluten free rolled oats *(omit if avoiding oats – see notes)

————————————-

Step 5 Whisk together Wet Ingredients

  • Soaked grains from Step 2, drained and rinsed in cool water (so it doesn’t kill the yeast)
  • Proofed yeast mixture from Step 3
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 100 ml. Warm water (about 6 tbsp.)

————————————-

Step 6 Combine

Combine wet (Step 5) and dry (Step 4) ingredients together in the bowl of a stand mixer.  Beat with the paddle attachment for 3 minutes.

————————————–

Step 7 Rise

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.  Here I’m using a 1 lb. loaf pan.  Having made this loaf many times, I found that this size pan works best.  Transfer the dough into the prepared pan and smooth it out with a spatula that has been dipped in water.  Cover with oiled plastic wrap and let it rise for about an hour.

Ideally, the loaf should rise to the top of the pan.  It doesn’t always happen with a heavy, dense dough like this.  Especially in a chilly kitchen.  I have learned with experience that a proofing box is the way to success.  It took about 50 minutes for the dough to be ready to bake with my proofing box set to 80º.

—————————————

Step 8 Egg Wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp. Water
  • 2 tbsp. Pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tbsp. Sunflower seeds

Beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp. warm water and brush the top of the loaf (you won’t need the entire egg, so reserve the rest for breakfast).  Sprinkle the loaf generously with pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

 

—————————————

Step 9 Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°.  Set a pizza stone on the middle oven rack.  Place the loaf in the oven and throw a few ice cubes onto the bottom of the oven to create steam.  Quickly close the door and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 200°.  Crack the oven door about 1″ during the last 5 minutes of baking, to keep the loaf from deflating.  Note that you will not get a big oven spring with this loaf, this is normal.

—————————————

Step 10 Cool

This is the hardest part of the recipe!  Lift the loaf out of the pan by grasping the parchment paper on either side.  Transfer to a rack and remove the parchment.  Allow the loaf to cool to room temperature before slicing.  Overnight is even better, place it in a plastic bag (after it cools down) and wait until morning to slice.  It smells so good you won’t want to wait.  Do it though, or the bread may be gummy in the middle.

—————————————

 Step 11 Toast it!

This bread was made for toasting!  It is my favorite breakfast bread, and I especially love when the seeds get singed in the toaster.  As with most gluten free breads it is best when eaten immediately.  I always freeze the leftovers in slices that are individually wrapped and stored in a freezer safe bag.  So easy to grab one for breakfast in the morning!

 

FULL INGREDIENT LIST / SHOPPING LIST —> PRINT IT!   Millet Buckwheat Toasting Bread Shopping List

  • ☐ whole millet
  • ☐ whole buckwheat
  • ☐ Instant yeast
  • ☐ Chia seeds, ground
  • ☐ Honey
  • ☐ millet flour
  • ☐ buckwheat flour
  • ☐ cornstarch
  • ☐ potato starch
  • ☐ tapioca starch
  • ☐ gluten free cornmeal
  • ☐ Xanthan gum
  • ☐ Salt
  • ☐ Sesame seeds
  • ☐ certified gluten free purity protocol rolled oats
  • ☐ egg (for the egg wash)
  • ☐ Pumpkin seeds
  • ☐ Sunflower seeds

Notes ♪♫ Oats continue to be highly controversial when it comes to celiac disease.  Whether or not you consume oats is a personal choice.  As a courtesy to my readers, I will identify any recipes that include oats and suggest ingredient substitutes when possible.  I personally use Bakery on Main, their oats are gluten free and processed under a purity protocol.

Originally posted 06/30/2019     Rephotographed 10/22/2024

 

Print This Post Print This Post

Gluten Free Eggplant Timbale

Eggplant Timbale.

Also known as Timballo, or Timpano, this dish gets its name from the Italian word for “drum” and refers to how the contents are pressed into the pan to create the drum shape.  It is truly a dramatic presentation.

It has long been on my culinary bucket list to make this classic Sicilian pasta dish.  Labor intensive?  Yes, but is well worth the time and effort when you bring this stunning dish to the table.  Perfect for Italian Sunday Dinner!

There are many variations of Timbale throughout Italy.  The Sicilian style, like this one is traditionally wrapped in eggplant.  What else is in it- gluten free penne, meatballs, tomatoes and cheese.  Ordinary ingredients perhaps, but this recipe puts them all together in a most impressive presentation!  It looks and tastes amazing!  Like a classy, sophisticated lasagna.

It took me several hours total to prep the ingredients and assemble the dish, although I made the sauce and the meatballs a day ahead.

Don’t be intimidated by all the steps.  In this post I break the recipe down and make it easy for you to follow.  You can opt to do some of the prep in advance as I did, or all at once if time permits.  Remember to allow for a few hours rest in the refrigerator before baking, as this helps the Timbale to set up and hold its shape.

This dish is often baked in a springform pan, but for a small family, an 8” round baking dish pan works perfectly (although it was a little tricky flipping it over!).  For a larger family, use 2 eggplant and make extra sauce, then bake in a springform pan or make 2 of the 8” cake pans.

This is an incredible meal, and you will be surprised at how filling it is.  Even with this smaller version you may have leftovers for lunch.

4-6 servings

This post contains affiliate links.

INGREDIENTS:

Sauce

  • 28 oz. Can tomato sauce (reserve ½ cup for the meatballs)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp. Olive oil
  • 2 tsp. Brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. Basil
  • ½ tsp. Oregano
  • Fresh ground pepper, to taste

Meatballs

  • ½ lb. Ground beef
  • ¼ lb. Gluten free Italian sausage
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup gluten free rolled oats
  • ¼ cup potato flakes
  • ¼ cup gluten free seasoned breadcrumbs
  • ¼ tsp. Gluten free Italian seasoning

Eggplant

  • 1 medium eggplant
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cooking spray

Pasta

  • 4 oz gluten free pasta (I used Jovial penne)

Other

  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup gluten free seasoned breadcrumbs

PREPARATION:

First, make the marinara sauce.  Heat a heavy saucepan or deep skillet with 1 tbsp. Olive oil.  Add the diced onions and cook, stirring frequently until they are translucent.  Add the garlic and stir for 30 seconds.  Next add the tomato sauce, reserving ½ cup for the meatballs.  Stir in the sugar, basil, oregano and fresh ground pepper.  Cover and simmer on low for ½ hour, then remove from the heat and cool to room temperature.  Check out this post for more detailed instructions on making a marinara sauce.

Now I can just hear you saying, can’t I cheat and use jar sauce?  Of course you can, just be sure it’s gluten free and I’ll never tell! 😉

Next, we will make the meatballs.  Whisk together the egg, reserved ½ cup of tomato sauce and Italian seasoning.  In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, potato flakes and breadcrumbs.  Add the beef and sausage to the egg mixture and work it in with your hands.  Read more about making meatballs in this post.

When the meat is well combined, add the dry ingredients and continue working the mixture to distribute everything evenly.  Line a baking sheet with foil and mist with cooking spray.  Form 24 small meatballs (about 1-½ inch) and place them on the baking sheet with space in between.  Broil 3 minutes per side on high, then set them aside and cool to room temperature.  *Note that I only used one dozen meatballs in this recipe, you will need all of them if you make a double batch or use a larger pan.

For the eggplant, cut off a slice at the stem and one from the bottom so that you can stand it up on your cutting board.  If you prefer, peel the eggplant by running a sharp knife down the sides to remove the skin.  If you don’t mind the skin, leave it on, it will look beautiful in the finished dish.

Cut one small round off the top then slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin strips, about ¼” wide.  I used a mandoline so that my slices would all be the exact same thickness.

Cook the eggplant in a large grill pan brushed with olive oil.  Season the slices as you cook them.  The goal here is to cook the eggplant just to where the slices are bendable, they will finish cooking in the oven. Don’t crowd the pan, cook it in batches if needed and drain the slices on paper towels.

Finally, cook the pasta to 2 minutes less than the package directions.  I recommend Jovial Brown Rice Pasta for this recipe because it holds up well to boiling and baking.  After cooking, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.

And now (finally) we are finally ready for the assembly.  Mist your baking pan or springform pan generously with cooking spray.  Cut a circle of parchment paper to fit the bottom of your pan and place the small round of eggplant in the center.

Next begin layering the largest slices around the pan, letting them drape over the side, like this.  Save a few smaller slices to cover the top.

Whisk together 1 cup of sauce and ½ cup of ricotta cheese.  Fold in the pasta, half of the meatballs (about a dozen) and half of the grated cheese, then spoon the mixture over the eggplant and top with more sauce (you can reserve a cup of the sauce for serving).

Fold the eggplant slices inward, then use the smaller slices to fill in the center.  Cover with plastic wrap and gently press down on the mixture, so that it will set up in the shape of the pan.  Refrigerate for 2-3 hours before baking.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.  Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle with the remaining grated cheese and breadcrumbs.

Mist a sheet of foil with cooking spray and cover the pan.  Don’t make it too tight, you don’t want the foil to stick.  Bake for 30 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake 30 minutes more.  You should see bubbling on the sides of the pan.

Now for the unveiling.  You really could serve it just like this, and I took a lot of pictures in case of a faux pas when I flipped it over!

The easiest way to do this is to run a butter knife around the edges then cover the pan with a plate and quickly invert it.  Careful, the pan will still be hot.

TADA!!! There it is!  Peel away the parchment paper and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.  I like to garnish with fresh basil.

Slice into wedges and serve with more sauce and grated cheese.

Friends, what a meal!  This is not a dish that I will make often, but it is truly a joy for this home cook to say that I’ve done it!  And as for being gluten free, I promise no one will even know.  You do not have to give up delicious pasta dishes on the gluten free diet, and this recipe is a true testament.

Notes ♪♫ Always check ingredient labels.  You know that your pasta and breadcrumbs must be gluten free, but don’t forget to check the sausage.  How about that grated cheese?  I always buy a block of cheese and grate my own, so I don’t have to worry about additives.  For those who cannot have oats, you can add a bit more potato flakes and breadcrumbs to the meatballs.

Print This Post Print This Post

Rocky Point Red Clam Chowder

I was born and raised in RI and have lived here for most of my life.  This post celebrates a Rhode Island icon of my youth, Rocky Point Park.  The amusement park, which operated from the late 1840s until it closed in 1994 was a favorite childhood destination for its incredible thrill rides.  Shore Dinner Hall at Rocky Point was the place to go for clam cakes and chowder that were famously served to thousands at a time.

Copycat recipes abound for Rocky Point Red Clam Chowder.  Here is my gluten free rendition, and I think it is a fitting tribute to the original!

This post contains affiliate links.

Fresh clams are always available in RI, but if you don’t want to do all that prep, frozen raw clams are a great alternative.  They are so much better than canned, and worth seeking out.  Remember, clams cook quickly and should only be added to the chowder during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Ingredients: 

  • 4 oz. salt pork
  • 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 large, sweet onion, diced
  • 2 bottles (16 oz. total) clam juice
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
  • 16 oz. container frozen raw chopped clams, thawed
  • 1 can gluten free tomato soup
  • 1-1/2 tsp. paprika
  • black pepper to taste 

Preparation:

Peel and dice the onions and potatoes, dice the salt pork into 1/2″ pieces.

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or heavy stockpot over medium low heat.  Add the diced salt pork and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring constantly.  Take your time here, you want nicely browned pork bits and all the rendered fat that is going to flavor the chowder.

Remove the browned bits with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels and set aside for garnish.  Reserve the fat in the pan.

Add the onions and cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the potatoes, clam juice, and Old Bay seasoning.  Bring to a boil and simmer 15 minutes.

Finally, add the clams, tomato soup and the paprika.  Cook 5 minutes longer (just a simmer, not a rolling boil), season with black pepper and remove from the heat.  Let stand for 1 hour before serving.

Serve the chowder with a few of the reserved bacon bits for garnish, they really make the flavor pop!  And how about those Oyster Crackers?  Yes, they are from scratch, and they are gluten free!  You’re welcome.

I hope my fellow Rhode Islanders have enjoyed this bit of local nostalgia.  Try the recipe and let me know what you think!  You don’t have to be gluten free, or a local to love this chowder, it is fabulous!

Notes ♪♫ Many red clam chowder recipes call for a can of condensed tomato soup, but don’t reach for the Campbells!  It is not gluten free.  I used Health Valley tomato soup, certified gluten free and no salt added.  It is very good in this recipe, and I used the unsalted because there are so many other salty ingredients.  Always check labels for hidden gluten, and if the salt pork is too much sodium, you can sub a few slices of low sodium bacon.

Originally published 8/31/2018, Updated 5/30/21, Rephotographed 7/16/2024

Print This Post Print This Post

Burgundy Beef Tagliatelle

When you have comfort food on your mind, look no further than this hearty meal of sirloin tips, gently braised in a wine and mushroom sauce with gluten free noodles.

Years ago, I had something like this in a restaurant and never got it out of my mind.  It was easy to recreate at home, and I used Jovial gluten free tagliatelle noodles because they have the look and texture of egg noodles that you would traditionally see in a dish like this.  It came out amazing.  A hearty dinner that will satisfy big appetites!

This post contains affiliate links.

4 Servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. sirloin tips
  • 1 tbsp. white rice flour
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 of a large, sweet onion, diced
  • 1 tsp. Montreal steak seasoning, divided
  • 3/4 cup red wine (I used Barefoot Merlot)
  • 1 package white or baby bella mushrooms, cut into 1/4″ thick slices
  • 2 tbsp. butter, divided
  • 6 oz. gluten free egg tagliatelle pasta
  • 1/2 cup gluten free broth (beef, chicken or vegetable)
  • 1 tsp. arrowroot *See notes
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

Cut the sirloin tips into 2″ chunks, trimming any excess fat.

Heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a heavy skillet or Sauteuse with cover or Dutch oven.  Toss the beef with the white rice flour, and brown in a single layer over medium low heat.

Season with 1/2 tsp. Montreal steak seasoning.

In a few minutes you should have good color on the beef and be able to see some caramelization.

Now add the onions and let them cook down for 3 minutes.

Add the wine and stir gently.  Bring to a simmer, then cover the pan and place in a 225º oven for 3 hours.

In the last 1/2 hour of cooking, heat 1 tbsp. olive oil and 1 tbsp. butter in a stainless-steel skillet (not nonstick).  Cook the mushrooms over low heat, just until they release their liquid and season with 1/2 tsp. Montreal Steak Seasoning.  Whisk the broth and arrowroot together and stir into the mushrooms, simmering to thicken.

Return the beef to the stovetop and stir in the mushroom mixture.

Keep the heat on low and continue simmering the beef on the stovetop with the lid off.  Allow the liquid to reduce and thicken while you cook the pasta.

Cook the tagliatelle noodles to 2 minutes less than package directions.  When the noodles are ready, drain and add to the pan with a pat or 2 of butter.

Toss well to combine and cook for a minute longer.  Garnish with parsley and serve right from the pan!

This meal is so good, the pictures don’t do it justice!

Notes ♪♫ Arrowroot flour, also known as arrowroot starch or arrowroot powder is a staple in my gluten free pantry.  Whether I just need a teaspoon for thickening, or more for bread baking, arrowroot is a nice alternative to the usual corn, tapioca or potato starch.  It is superb for making a roux, no lumps ever!

Original post Oct 8, 2021                Rephotographed Jun 28, 2024

Print This Post Print This Post

Gluten Free Italian Sausage and Cabbage with Pasta

Cabbage!  It’s not just for St. Patrick’s Day.

🥬🥬🥬

Are you a once-a-year cabbage person? I always make the traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner for St. Patrick’s Day, but until recently that was the extent of my cabbage repertoire.  Then somewhere along the way, I expanded my horizons.

This humble veggie is a key ingredient in so many recipes and cuisines.  Check out my Asian inspired Chicken and Cabbage, Moo Shoo Pork and Chicken Chow Mein.  Or how about this Portuguese Cabbage Soup with Linguica?  Polish stuffed cabbage rolls, yes please!  But wait, I’m Italian.  Shouldn’t I have an Italian recipe with cabbage?  Well now I do, and it is AMAZING.

This post contains affiliate links.

You know I love braised dishes, where the ingredients slowly cook down and the flavors concentrate and intensify.  Usually, this process takes several hours or more, but not in this recipe.  With a little advance prep, you can have dinner on the table in 30 minutes.  So easy to make, with very little seasoning needed as the sausage flavors the entire dish.  And what a delicious meal it is.  So, let’s get started.

Dinner for two

Ingredients:

  • olive oil
  • 4 oz. sweet Italian sausage (I like Premio)
  • 2 cups sliced sweet onion
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 4 cups shredded savoy cabbage
  • crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp. thyme
  • 1 cup water, more as needed
  • 4 oz. gluten free pasta (I used Farabella Rigatoni) incredible!
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese (I used a combo of parmesan and Romano)

Preparation:

Boil salted water for the pasta.

In a 3 qt. stock pot, heat 1 tbsp. olive oil on medium low, remove casings from the sausage and begin breaking it up with a meat spatula.

Continue cooking until the meat is completely browned, then add the onions.

Stir frequently and cook for several minutes until the onions are translucent.  Then add the tomato paste to the center of the pan.

Let it toast for a minute, before stirring it into the sausage and onions.

Next, add all of the cabbage with the thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (more if you like).

Stir thoroughly to combine, then add about 1 cup of water.  You can use a ladle of the pasta water if it’s ready.

Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes, adding a bit more water if it seems dry.

Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions.  Drain and add it into the pan.  You can add a little of the pasta water as needed.  Toss well and continue cooking for 2 minutes longer to finish the pasta.  When ready to serve, remove the pan from the heat and drizzle with olive oil and half of the grated cheese.

Give it a good stir then transfer to a serving bowl and finish with a little more olive oil and cheese.

Doesn’t that look good?  It was really an excellent dinner and something you can make after St. Patrick’s Day if you still have cabbage in the fridge to use up.

You can even sneak this one by the kids, just don’t mention the veggies. 😉 Picky eaters will gobble up this yummy bowl of comfort food if you let the cabbage be your little secret!

Notes ♪♫ Is it gluten free?  The only ingredient substitution needed for this recipe was the pasta, and of course I had just the thing in the pantry!  This gluten free rigatoni from Farabella was a splurge, but it was incredible.  It tastes just like real pasta- so do check it out!  If you can’t find Farabella pasta near you it is available here on Amazon.

Print This Post Print This Post

Gluten Free Sandwich Thins

When I hear people say that the gluten free diet promotes weight loss, I have to shake my head! 🤦🏻‍♀️ The reality is that gluten free breads, pastas and cereals have as many or more calories and carbs than their wheat filled counterparts.

It got me to thinking, that back a few years “BC” (before Celiac) I had a great homemade recipe for the popular Sandwich Thin buns that everyone loved.  In this post I’ll show you how I recreated that recipe to a gluten free version for my lunch sandwiches.

This post contains Affiliate Links.

Mind you, I wanted my bread to be nutritious and wholesome, not just empty calories.  This recipe checks all my boxes- whole grains, small portions, great taste.  I used a muffin top pan to create perfectly shaped rounds that were all the same size, about 1.5 oz. each after baking.

The flour blend was a result of trial and error, largely based on my own taste buds as well as some sampling by my family.  Sorghum and brown rice are high on my list of favorites, and I use a combination of the two in many of my breads.  Dark teff grain has an earthy flavor that can easily overpower a recipe, but using just a little lends a wheat like flavor and color.  I also blended 3 starches together which worked great, but no corn starch as I don’t like it for baking (again, just my taste preference).

You might be interested to know that I used a coffee grinder for some of my ingredient prep.  Tiny grains like teff and chia seeds can be purchased in whole form, and ground into a flour just before baking for ultimate freshness.

You don’t need a special pan to make the buns, but this muffin top pan I used was a great for shaping and definitely helped with portion control.  The non-stick finish made for a very easy cleanup.  I liked it so much I ordered a second one!

 

 

 

 

Makes 12 buns

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp. yeast
  • 1 tbsp. chia seeds, ground
  • 1 tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 cup warm water

………………………………..

  • 90 g. whole grain sorghum flour
  • 130 g. brown rice flour
  • 40 g. tapioca starch
  • 40 g. arrowroot starch
  • 40 g. potato starch
  • 15 g. teff grain, ground
  • 1 tsp. gelatin
  • 1-1/4 tsp. xanthan gum
  • 3/4 tsp. salt

…………………………………….

  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup warm water

…………………………………….

  • 2 tbsp. 1% milk, for brushing
  • sesame seeds
  • poppy seeds

Preparation:

Grind 1 tbsp. chia seeds in a coffee grinder and combine it with 1 tbsp. yeast, 1 tbsp. sugar, and 1/2 cup warm water.  Stir and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Grind 15 g. of teff grain in a coffee grinder.

Whisk together with the other dry ingredients.

Whisk the egg, olive oil and milk into the yeast mixture.

With the paddle attachment, mix in the dry ingredients along with the last 1/2 cup of water.  Beat for 3 minutes to form a smooth, wet dough.

Have a bowl of warm water ready for dipping your spoon and fingertips.  Drop a scant 2 tablespoons of dough into each well, dipping the spoon into the water each time to help manage the sticky dough.

Dip a small spatula into the water and smooth out the dough, spreading it in a circular motion to fill in the rounds.  Don’t skip this step, gluten free dough does not spread by itself!  If you are not using a muffin top pan, spoon the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment and spread into 4″ rounds.

Cover with oiled plastic wrap and let rise for 30 minutes.  Preheat the oven to 400º.  After 30 minutes, brush the tops of the buns with milk and sprinkle with sesame and poppy seeds.

Bake for 15 minutes, or until the buns reach an internal temperature of 205º.

Remember, gluten free bread takes longer to cook than regular, and if not cooked through the center will be wet and tacky.  Check the internal temperature with a thermometer!

Cool completely on a rack.  Buns are best the day they are baked, and leftovers should be frozen as soon as they reach room temperature.  I like to slice mine and wrap them individually in plastic wrap to store in freezer safe bags.  So easy to grab a roll for my lunch!  Here’s the crumb shot.

Just the right size for a light sandwich.  As I was baking, the kitchen really smelled like bread.  If you are gluten free you know what a big deal this is.  And the taste did not disappoint!  I have been enjoying my sandwiches knowing that I’m not overdoing it on carbs.  This recipe is a must try!  Please pin, like and share the recipe and let me know what you think!

Notes ♪♫ I placed my muffin top pans on top of another baking sheet for insulation.  This prevented the bottoms of the buns from burning before the centers were cooked through.  It worked perfectly!

Originally published 03/23/2019                   Updated 01/21/2024

Print This Post Print This Post

Gluten Free Pumpkin Applesauce Muffins

Are you team pumpkin or team apple?  With these Pumpkin Applesauce Muffins, there’s no need to take sides!  You get the best of both fall flavors in every bite!

Think all gluten free baked goods are dry and crumbly?  Wait until you bite into one of these muffins, they are super moist and delicious.  What’s more, no one will guess that they are gluten free!

This post contains affiliate links.

Ingredients:

Dry ingredients

  • 285 g. (~2-1/3 cups) gluten free flour (I use and recommend Better Batter Original)
  • 1-1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1-1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 3/4 tsp. ginger
  • 1/4 tsp. cloves
  • 3/4 tsp. nutmeg
  • 3/4 tsp. salt

Wet ingredients

Get 30% off full price at Better Batter with code MGFC30

Preparation:

Whisk the dry ingredients together in one bowl.  In another bowl, whisk together all the wet ingredients.

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet, until all of the flour is moistened.  Cover and let the batter rest for 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350º.

Mist the muffin tin with cooking spray and spoon the batter into the 12 cups.

Use a small spatula to smooth out the tops, this will give the muffins a nice dome.

Bake for 30 minutes.  Test with a toothpick, it should come out dry.

Cool in the pan for 15 minutes then place on a rack until completely cooled before storing, about 2 hours.

Muffins will keep at room temperature for a day or two.  Reheat them in the microwave for 30 seconds.  I like to wrap leftovers individually and freeze them for a quick breakfast or snack.

Notes ♪♫ Don’t skip the 20-minute resting time.  This important step allows the flour to hydrate so that there will be no gritty texture in the finished muffin.  This is a great tip for gluten free baking in general, and will give better results for your breads, muffins and cakes.

Print This Post Print This Post

Gluten Free Pumpkin Vanilla Waffles

Today there are so many gluten-free pancake mixes out there, and it’s a treat to make a quick batch of pancakes or waffles, without the gluten!  I’m always trying to be creative and will often use a pancake mix as a base to which I can add layers of flavor and texture!  This fall inspired waffle has almond flour and flax for protein and fiber, coconut flour for sweetness, as well as pumpkin, banana and yogurt for moisture.  The waffles are dense and hearty, a filling breakfast.  One is enough for me, so I make a batch of 8 and freeze the leftovers.  So easy to pop into the toaster for a quick breakfast!

This post contains affiliate links.

While we all have our favorite brands, I love the Pancake and Biscuit Mix from Better Batter.  Try it and use my code MGFC30 for 30% off your non-sale purchase!

Ingredients:

Dry ingredients:

Wet ingredients:

  • 1/2 ripe banana, mashed
  • 2 tbsp. canola oil
  • 1 egg
  • 5 oz. vanilla Greek yogurt
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1-3/4 cups 1% milk
  • cooking spray

Preparation:

Whisk together the dry ingredients in one bowl, and the wet ingredients in another.  Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir together with a batter whisk until completely moistened.  At first it may appear that the batter is too thin, but it will thicken as the flax absorbs the liquid.  Let the batter rest 10 minutes while you preheat the waffle iron to 350º.

The recipe makes 8 waffles.  If you want to be very particular, you can weigh the batter and divide it in half so your waffles will all be uniform in size.  Coat the waffle iron with cooking spray and spread the batter evenly, using a spatula to get into the corners.  Close lid and cook for 6 minutes.

Remove the waffles and repeat with the remaining batter.  You can enjoy them immediately or cool on a rack to refrigerate or freeze for later.

My favorite way to serve waffles is topped with candied walnuts, just a drizzle of maple syrup and a side of fresh fruit!

Notes ♪♫ Whether you are making pancakes or waffles, remember that gluten free batter takes longer to cook!  For this recipe, the batter is extra dense, so I recommend a full 6 minutes per batch at 350º for a soft waffle, longer for crispy.  You can reheat them in the microwave if you like them soft or use the toaster to crisp them up.  I like to reheat mine in my air fryer, for 4 minutes at 400º.

Print This Post Print This Post

Ginger Bok Choy Egg Drop Soup

This Asian inspired soup is just the thing for a light dinner or first course.  If you love Egg Drop Soup, you will love this adaptation that combines the best of Egg Drop and Ginger Bok Choy.  Only a few ingredients are needed, and since it does not require all day simmering you can throw it together after work.  Stir in a beaten egg and rice noodles just before serving and it’s ready to eat!

This was quite a bit different than my usual soups, but the recipe is a keeper!  So good for those chilly nights, or when you’re feeling under the weather.

This post contains affiliate links.

4 servings

Ingredients:

Preparation:

Heat 1 tsp. sesame oil and 1 tsp. olive oil in a soup pot or Dutch oven.  Mince the garlic and ginger (I used an electric chopper) and add to the pot.  Cook for 30 seconds then add the sliced mushrooms.

Stir until the mushrooms release their liquid, then add the bone broth, 2 tsp. of tamari and 1 tsp. sesame oil (or more, to taste).  Season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer for 15 minutes.

Trim away the tough, lower part of the Bok choy, then rinse and halve the leaves.  Stir them into the soup to wilt and lower the heat to keep warm.

Cook the rice noodles in a separate pan according to package directions.  Just prior to serving, drizzle the beaten egg into the soup and swirl it around with a whisk.  Add the cooked rice noodles.

Ladle into bowls and serve with Chow Mein noodles for texture (optional), or a simple garnish of green onions if you want to keep it simple.

Notes ♪♫ I love these extra wide rice noodles from A Taste of Thai.  I was able to find them locally, but if not available in your area you can get them here at Amazon.  I use Coconut Aminos in my Asian recipes, but if you are not limiting salt, try Gluten Free Tamari.

Print This Post Print This Post

 

 

Gluten Free Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Today I made a gluten free version of another old favorite.  This yeasted sweet bread with swirls of brown sugar and cinnamon was adapted from a recipe originally appearing in Better Homes and Gardens.  Before my Celiac diagnosis I used to make it all the time.

Both adults and kids loved it, even the picky eaters!  I can’t tell you how pleased I was to be making this bread again, it turned out great!

This post contains affiliate links.

When you work with the right gluten free flour, this Cinnamon Swirl Bread is so easy to make!  If you are a fan of Better Batter like me, you probably have all of the ingredients in your pantry!

If you haven’t tried Better Batter yet, I cannot recommend their flour blends enough.  Use my code below for 30% off!  You will not be disappointed!

(When you shop Better Batter, be sure to use my code MGFC30 at checkout for 30% off your non-sale purchase)

Ingredients:

  • Dough:
  • 405g. Better Batter Artisan Blend flour *see notes
  • 1-1/4 tsp. instant yeast
  • 3/4 tsp. salt
  • 3 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
  • 1-1/2 cups warm milk (I used 2%)
  • 1 egg room temperature
  • 3 tbsp. granulated sugar
  • Filling:
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1-1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp. melted butter
  • Egg Wash:
  • 2 tbsp. egg whites
  • 1 tbsp. water
  • Finishing:
  • 1 tbsp. melted butter, for brushing

Preparation:

I used a 13 x 4″ pullman loaf pan for a long skinny loaf with smaller, diet friendly slices.  You can get the pan here.

Whisk together the flour and salt.  Combine the warmed milk, sugar and yeast in a separate bowl or measuring cup and let it stand 15 minutes.

Add the egg and softened butter to the bowl of a stand mixer and whisk to combine.  Add the milk mixture and whisk until well blended.

Switch to the paddle attachment and add the flour and salt to the bowl, mixing on low to combine.  Increase speed and beat for 5 minutes to form a dough, occasionally scraping down the sides with a spatula.  Dough will be sticky at this point.

Bring the dough together, cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Cut a sheet of parchment to fit the length of the loaf pan (this will help with rolling and transferring the dough).  Mist the parchment lightly with cooking spray and transfer the dough.  Roll and pat the dough into a rectangle, about 14 x 10” and 1/2″ thick.  (Note- after a 20-minute rest, this dough rolls like a dream, but if you have any sticking just mist your rolling pin with cooking spray.)

Brush the dough with 1 tbsp. melted butter.

Spread the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1″ border all around.

Starting with the long side, use the parchment to lift the dough and begin rolling it up.

Continue rolling and pinch the seam to seal.

Tuck in the ends like this and turn the dough seam side down.

Lift the dough (with parchment) into the pan, cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.  Dough will be puffy but not doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 350º and whisk together the egg whites and water.  Brush the loaf well with the egg wash.  Pierce the top of the loaf with a fork or docking tool to allow steam to escape.

Bake for 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 200º.  Remove from the oven and brush the top with 1 tbsp. melted butter.

Grasp both sides of the parchment to lift the loaf out of the pan to a cooling rack.

Slide the parchment out and let the loaf cool completely before slicing.

If you like, you can drizzle the top with icing made of 3 tbsp. powdered sugar and 1 tbsp. milk.  I made this loaf for company, and we served it with coffee, just like this.  It was a hit!

Slice and toast, or just add to your breadbasket!  It freezes beautifully, so you can wrap up the extra slices in plastic wrap, store in a freezer safe bag and it will be good for several months.

Notes ♪♫ I used and recommend Better Batter Artisan Flour Blend for this recipe.  This flour requires twice the liquid of typical recipes, so if you use another flour, you will need to adjust the liquid to flour ratio.  Start with half the milk (3/4 cup) and only add more if needed, 1 tbsp. at a time.

Print This Post Print This Post