The Challenges of Gluten-Free Cooking

When it comes to cooking, there are many dietary restrictions that may be encountered along the way. One restriction that is gaining some degree of notoriety in recent years is the need for a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a substance that is commonly found in flour products that a decent sized portion of the population has a negative reaction to in some form or another. For these people, gluten-free isn't a choice - it is absolutely necessary.

Image by nc_hiker via FlickrGluten free cooking does impose many restrictions and often makes it quite difficult to enjoy something the vast majority of us take for granted-dining out. The good news from those who require gluten free foods is that more and more restaurants are beginning to acknowledge this condition and offer some selections that are gluten free.

Besides dining out, there are also challenges to finding new and tasty foods and combinations for cooking at home every night without falling into a rut of the same old foods that you know you can eat without worry. Consider cooking gluten free a challenge rather than a chore and you may find that the process is much more enjoyable.

There are many resources available for those who need to eat gluten free foods. Changes are being made and resources are being shared through the Internet that help not only adults that require special gluten free cooking and diets but also support for the parents of children who must have gluten free diets. Cooking for children in the best of circumstances is often difficult - especially if you have picky eaters! It is even more difficult when there are excessive dietary restrictions that often eliminate the possibility of our children enjoying childhood favorites. That is why it is so important to seek out the many resources and recipes that are available for gluten free cooking.

Image via WikipediaIf you require a gluten free diet and have no idea where to start or what you should be cooking you should check out the many websites and blogs online that address the issues and needs that are faced by those requiring gluten restrictions. (See some resources below.) You will probably be amazed at the wealth of information that is available. Also, if you have a Trader Joes or Whole Foods store in your area, most of them either offer or will order gluten free products for your cooking needs.

Gluten free cooking does not have to be the chore many of us think it must be and all gluten free food doesn't taste like cardboard. Take the time to get to know the wonderful gluten free recipes that abound and incorporate them one at a time into your cooking repertoire. You will be amazed at how wonderful you feel as well as how great the food tastes.

A Few Good Gluten-Free Cookbooks: