Gluten-free Appetizers in the Air Fryer

Something different for Dinner

In today's blog post, we're diving into the world of gluten-free appetizers and unleashing the full potential of your air fryer. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with a delightful dinner featuring a medley of crispy and delicious gluten-free treats. From Ore-ida Golden Crinkles to Gluten-Free Pizza Bites, Fish Sticks, Cauliflower Bites, and Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks, we'll show you how to create a creative and scrumptious gluten-free feast!

Ore-ida Golden Crinkles

Who can resist the classic appeal of crispy golden fries? Ore-Ida Golden Crinkles are a gluten-free staple that pairs perfectly with any appetizer spread. Preheat your air fryer, pop in a batch of these delectable crinkle-cut fries, and watch them transform into irresistibly crispy bites of potato goodness. Once you taste these, you'll never use an oven to cook your french fries.

Gluten-Free Pizza Bites

Pizza lovers rejoice! With gluten-free pizza bites, you can savor the flavors of everyone's favorite Italian delight without worrying about gluten. These bite-sized snacks are bursting with gooey cheese and savory toppings, all wrapped in a gluten-free crust. Simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until they're golden and bubbling with cheesy perfection.

Fish Sticks

For seafood enthusiasts, gluten-free fish sticks are a must-try. Made with flaky white fish and gluten-free breading, these air-fried fish sticks are a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. The air fryer crisps them up beautifully while keeping the fish moist and tender on the inside. Serve them with a zesty tartar sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Cauliflower Bites

Elevate your appetizer game with gluten-free cauliflower bites. These crispy morsels of cauliflower goodness are coated in a flavorful gluten-free batter and air-fried to perfection. The air fryer transforms cauliflower into a delightful, crunchy treat that even the pickiest eaters will love. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for a truly addictive snack.

Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks

No appetizer spread is complete without the cheesy indulgence of mozzarella sticks. With gluten-free mozzarella sticks, you can enjoy this classic favorite without worrying about gluten. The air fryer works its magic, creating a perfectly crispy exterior that gives way to ooey-gooey melted cheese. Dip them in marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying bite.

Conclusion

With the help of your trusty air fryer, you can create a mouthwatering dinner featuring an array of gluten-free appetizers. From the beloved Ore-ida Golden Crinkles to the creative twists of Gluten-Free Pizza Bites, Fish Sticks, Cauliflower Bites, and Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the versatility and convenience of the air fryer to whip up a delicious and gluten-free feast that will leave your guests craving for more. So, fire up that air fryer and let the gluten-free culinary adventure begin!

Uncle Cheungs Closes

Chinese restaurant closes in Framingham

Uncle Cheungs Resturant in Framingham

Things I Learned

• Uncle Cheungs first Opened in 1983. Earlier this year they started selling sweatshirts celebrating 40 years of being in business.
• In the Celiac community, their Gluten-Free selection was very popular. Celiacs found the selection to be diverse, with a variety of options, making it easier to follow a gluten-free diet. The products were also seen as high-quality and affordable.
• Uncle Cheungs owners have been trying to sell the business and land since 2020. The owners wanted to retire and wanted to pass the business down to their children but none of them appear to really want to own the business.
• Uncle Cheungs owners own the building which they say helped them survive the 2020 - 2021 COVID-19 crisis that closed a lot of local businesses.
• New Business will be U Dumpling House which was incorporated in 2023
• According to layouts there don't appear to be many changes done to the dining room. It's not certain if U Dumpling House will have any Gluten-Free options.

Best Gluten Free Dish

Juliana's favorite order at Uncle Cheungs was Boneless Spare ribs, Sweet and Sour Chicken and Vegetable Fried Rice - all gluten-free.

Savor Cuisine

DCU Vendor has no Gluten-Free Options

I recently took my daughter to a dance competition at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts. We were looking forward to enjoying a meal at Savor Cuisine, the arena's food and beverage provider. However, we were disappointed to learn that there were no gluten-free options available.

When we asked a staff member about gluten-free options, they told us that they would have to look through a hard-cover notebook to see what was available. After a few minutes, we decided to eat outside of the DCU Center.

We were disappointed that Savor Cuisine did not have more gluten-free options available.

We understand that it can be difficult to accommodate dietary restrictions, but we believe that Savor Cuisine should do a better job of providing gluten-free options for their customers. In today's world, more and more people have gluten-free needs. It is important for businesses to be accommodating to these customers.

We would encourage Savor Cuisine to add more gluten-free options to their menu. Even a few simple items, such as a gluten-free burger, grilled chicken salad, or corn tacos, would make a big difference for customers with gluten-free needs. (Especially if they won't allowed outside food during an all-day dance competition.)

We also believe that Savor Cuisine should make it easier for customers to find out about their gluten-free options. The hard-cover notebook that they had didn't seem like a good reliable option. It would be much more helpful if the gluten-free options were listed on the menu or on a separate board.

Hope Things Change

We hope that Savor Cuisine will take our feedback into consideration and make changes to their gluten-free options. In the meantime, we will be looking for other restaurants in the area that offer more gluten-free options.

What to look for on gluten-free food labels

Things to Consider

With the increasing popularity of gluten-free diets, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of gluten-free foods. While many foods are naturally gluten-free, others may contain hidden sources of gluten. To ensure that you are making informed choices, it is important to know what to look for on gluten-free food labels.

Here are some key things to look for on gluten-free food labels:

• Certification: Look for a certification symbol from a recognized gluten-free certifying organization, such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). These symbols indicate that the food has been independently verified to meet strict gluten-free standards.
• Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for any potential sources of gluten, such as wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten can also be hidden in ingredients like malt, modified food starch, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. Be sure to read the entire ingredient list, as gluten can be listed under different names.
• "Gluten-free" label: Look for products that are labeled "gluten-free." This indicates that the product contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the threshold set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for gluten-free labeling.
• Cross-contamination: Check the label for any warnings about potential cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. Some products may be processed in facilities that also process wheat, barley, or rye, which can lead to cross-contamination.
• Nutritional value: Just because a product is gluten-free doesn't necessarily mean it is healthy. Be sure to check the nutritional value of the food, including the amount of sugar, fat, and calories. Look for gluten-free products that are also nutrient-dense, such as those made with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

It's important to note that gluten-free labeling standards can vary by country, so be sure to check the regulations in your area. In the United States, for example, the FDA regulates gluten-free labeling, while in Canada, gluten-free labeling is voluntary.

In conclusion, navigating the world of gluten-free foods can be challenging, but knowing what to look for on food labels can help you make informed choices. Look for certification symbols, check the ingredient list for potential sources of gluten, and be sure to check for any warnings about cross-contamination. Finally, remember that gluten-free doesn't necessarily mean healthy, so be sure to check the nutritional value of the food as well.

Quinoa Cooking

Use Quinoa to add taste to Gluten Free Foods

Quinoa is a gluten-free whole grain that is a great source of protein, fiber, and nutrients. It is a popular choice for people with celiac disease or other gluten intolerances, as it is a safe and healthy alternative to gluten-containing grains.

Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. This makes it a valuable addition to the diet for people who do not eat meat or other animal products. Quinoa is also a good source of fiber, which can help to improve digestion and gut health. Additionally, quinoa is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.

There are many ways to enjoy quinoa. It can be cooked and served as a side dish, used in salads, or added to soups and stews. Quinoa can also be used to make flour, which can be used in baking or to make gluten-free breads and tortillas.

If you are looking for a healthy and gluten-free grain, quinoa is a great option. It is a versatile and delicious grain that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Here are some tips for cooking quinoa:

• Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitter saponins.
• Cook the quinoa in a 1:2 ratio of water to quinoa.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through.
• Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving.

Here are some ideas for using quinoa:

• Serve quinoa as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
• Add quinoa to salads for a boost of protein and fiber.
• Make a quinoa breakfast bowl by topping cooked quinoa with fruit, nuts, seeds, and yogurt.
• Use quinoa to make gluten-free bread, tortillas, and crackers.
• Add quinoa to soups and stews for a heartier meal.
• With its many health benefits and versatility, quinoa is a great addition to any gluten-free diet.

Kumquat

Make Your Food Taste Better

If you are on a gluten-free diet, you may find that you are missing out on some of your favorite foods. But don't worry, there are many delicious and healthy gluten-free options available, including kumquat. In this blog post, we will explore the use of kumquat in cooking gluten-free meals.

Health Benefits of Kumquat

Kumquats are small, oval citrus fruits that are packed with health benefits. They are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation in the body. Kumquats are also low in calories and can be a great addition to a healthy diet.

Using Kumquat in Gluten-Free Meals

Kumquats can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and nutrition to gluten-free meals. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Kumquat and Avocado Salad

This salad is a perfect way to use kumquats to add a burst of citrus flavor to your meals. To make the salad, slice kumquats and mix them with diced avocado, arugula, and a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

2. Kumquat Marinade for Chicken

This marinade is a perfect way to use kumquats to add flavor to your chicken dishes. To make the marinade, blend kumquats, garlic, ginger, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil in a food processor. Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least an hour before grilling or baking.

3. Kumquat and Almond Flour Cake

This cake is a perfect way to use kumquats to add sweetness to your gluten-free desserts. To make the cake, mix almond flour, kumquat zest, eggs, honey, and baking powder. Top with sliced kumquats and bake until golden brown.

Conclusion

Kumquats are versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of gluten-free meals. They are packed with health benefits and can add flavor and nutrition to your dishes.

By using kumquats in your cooking, you can create delicious and healthy gluten-free meals that will satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling great. So why not give Kumquats a try and see what delicious dishes you can create?

Eggs in Cooking

Good Substitute for Wheat in some cases

For those who suffer from gluten intolerance, finding a substitute for flour can be challenging. However, one ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways is eggs. Eggs are a versatile and essential ingredient in gluten-free cooking and can be used in many different dishes to provide flavor, texture, and structure. In this blog post, we will explore three ways eggs can be used in gluten-free cooking.

Adding Texture to Baked Goods

When it comes to gluten-free baking, one of the biggest challenges is achieving the right texture. Without gluten, baked goods can become dense and heavy. However, eggs can help to provide the necessary lift and lightness. In fact, many gluten-free recipes call for extra eggs to help with this. For example, adding an extra egg to a gluten-free cake recipe can help to give it a lighter texture.

Binding Ingredients Together

Another challenge in gluten-free cooking is getting ingredients to stick together. Without gluten, it can be difficult to achieve the right consistency in dishes like meatloaf or meatballs. Once again, eggs can come to the rescue. Eggs can act as a binder, helping to hold ingredients together. In addition, eggs can also be used as a coating to help breadcrumbs or other coatings adhere to foods like chicken or fish.

Creating Creamy Sauces

A final way that eggs can be used in gluten-free cooking is by creating creamy sauces. Many traditional sauces rely on flour as a thickener, but this is not an option for those who are gluten-free. However, eggs can be used to create a similar effect. For example, hollandaise sauce is made by whisking egg yolks with melted butter and lemon juice. The eggs help to thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture.

Conclusion

Eggs are a versatile and essential ingredient in gluten-free cooking. Whether you're trying to achieve the right texture in baked goods, bind ingredients together in savory dishes, or create creamy sauces, eggs can help. By adding eggs to your gluten-free cooking arsenal, you can expand your range of dishes and enjoy a wider variety of flavors and textures.

Mass Mutual Center

Springfield, Mass center has limited Gluten Free options

The Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts is a popular venue for a variety of events, including concerts, sporting events, and conferences. For individuals who are gluten intolerant, finding suitable food options at the concession stand can be challenging. Unfortunately, the Mass Mutual Center has limited gluten-free options available at their concessions stand.

Concession stand at the Mass Mutual Center

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and can cause adverse reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It is essential for individuals with gluten intolerance to avoid foods that contain gluten to maintain their health.

When visiting the concessions stand at the Mass Mutual Center, individuals with gluten intolerance will find that their options are limited. The majority of the food options contain gluten, including hot dogs, hamburgers, and pretzels. The only gluten-free option available is a hot dog without a bun, which is not an adequate or satisfying meal option.

It turns out that hamburgers without buns are not gluten-free options since they toast the buns on the same grill they cook the buns on. Note: They do have gluten-free rolls but the cook warned of cross-contamination.

My daughter's only food option - other than salad was a hot dog without a bun. The hot dog was an option since it's boiled and has no contact with any rolls before serving.

Note: Outside food is not allowed at the Mass Mutual Center - which leads to minimal selection for kids with celiac.

The concessions menu board. Not a lot of good Gluten-Free options.

Disapointed

It is disappointing that the Mass Mutual Center does not offer a wider variety of gluten-free options for its patrons. Providing gluten-free options at concessions stands is becoming more common, and it would be beneficial for the Mass Mutual Center to follow suit. Offering gluten-free alternatives would not only help individuals with gluten intolerance, but it would also attract a wider range of customers who are looking for healthier food options.

In conclusion, the limited gluten-free options at the concessions stand at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts is a challenge for individuals with gluten intolerance. The only gluten-free option available is popcorn, which is not an adequate or satisfying meal option. It is important for the Mass Mutual Center to consider adding more gluten-free options to their concessions stand to accommodate individuals with gluten intolerance and to provide healthier food options for all of their customers.

Plan B Restaurant

Great Gluten-Free Options

Plan B Burger Bar is a popular restaurant chain with locations throughout the Northeast, including Springfield, Massachusetts. The restaurant specializes in delicious burgers, but they also offer a range of gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. Here are some of the gluten-free options available at the Plan B Burger Bar in Springfield:

Starters: The restaurant offers a range of gluten-free appetizers, including the Buffalo Cauliflower, which is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional wings.

Salads: Plan B Burger Bar has a range of salads that are gluten-free, including the Grilled Chicken Caesar and the Chopped Salad with chicken, avocado, and bacon.

Burgers: The restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free burger options, including the Classic Burger with a gluten-free bun and the Veggie Burger made with black beans, beets, and quinoa.

Sides: The restaurant also offers gluten-free side dishes, including Sweet Potato Fries, Tater Tots, and Brussels Sprouts.

Gluten-Free Burger at Plan B

Three Things We Learned

Last week we visited the restaurant in Springfield, Massachusetts for a Saint Patrick's Day dinner. Here are some things we learned on our visit:

Gluten-free options were plentiful on the menu. It's surprising that my daughter didn't want to try the gluten-free chicken wings appetizer even though she had a lot to pick from. In fact, in the appetizer section, there are 9 items and only 2 of them are not gluten-free. Even the kid's menu has gluten-free items - which is certainly unheard of in most restaurants that we have visited.

Note: The menu states that the item can be prepared gluten-free, which means you need to ask for the gluten-free version - don't assume that it will be made gluten-free.

She ordered a "build your own burger" and asked for a gluten-free roll for $1.99 extra. Iceberg lettuce bunless options, which cost nothing extra, are also available, but no twelve-year-old will want to eat that. A bunless option may be healthier, but it also lacks the texture and flavor that a bun can provide. Also, the cost of the gluten-free option was relatively small compared to the overall cost of the meal, so it was a reasonable request.

As Plan B does not sell beers from foreign countries, Guinness was not available on Saint Patrick's Day. However, Founders Breakfast Stout Nitro was available and was a pretty good substitute. Founders Breakfast Stout Nitro is an American-style oatmeal stout with a creamy, nitro finish. It is a much-loved beer among craft beer lovers and a great alternative to Guinness. It was a hit at Plan B on Saint Patrick's Day.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Plan B Burger Bar in Springfield, Massachusetts, is a great option for those looking for delicious gluten-free food. From burgers to salads, sides, and desserts, the restaurant has a range of options that are safe and delicious for those with dietary restrictions. So next time you're in the area, be sure to check out Plan B Burger Bar for a delicious and satisfying meal!

Pamela's Gluten-Free Waffles

How I make them great every day

If you are looking for a gluten-free breakfast option, waffles made with Pamela's Gluten-Free Baking and Pancake Mix are a great choice. This mix is specially formulated to give you the perfect texture and taste for your waffles. Here is a simple recipe to make delicious gluten-free waffles using Pamela's mix.

This is how I make my daughter's waffles - just about every morning.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Pamela's Gluten-Free Baking and Pancake Mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your waffle maker.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the Pamela's Gluten-Free Baking and Pancake Mix and eggs.
3. Add the water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the bowl and whisk until the batter is smooth.
4. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle maker and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve the waffles with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or syrup.

Making gluten-free waffles with Pamela's Gluten-Free Baking and Pancake Mix is easy and delicious. Enjoy a gluten-free breakfast with this simple recipe.