Gluten Free: A Cultural Lesson

As you can imagine, with my position as Director of Sales with Enjoy Life, I get to chat with many people that have food allergies, celiac disease, and a gluten intolerance. Generally speaking, the response I hear from these individuals is not overwhelming joy or undying appreciation, especially when first sentenced to prison…er, I mean, diagnosed. Just kidding! I must say that over the past months I have reached a place that not only am I content with the fact that I am gluten free (and it’s not an attempt to placate myself), but I am sincerely appreciative.

That is NOT to say that I don’t miss a warm from the toaster, gluten-filled, dripping with melted butter, sourdough English muffin, I do!  What I am saying is that by being gluten free, I have been motivated to try many new dishes and as a self-proclaimed foodie (my husband has threatened to utilize the parental controls to block the Food Network), I’m inspired to research world cuisine.  You would be amazed how many cultures naturally cook gluten free!

Socca Bread

My family loves socca bread, a chickpea and olive oil flat bread from Southern France.  I serve it stuffed with thinly sliced marinated chicken or grilled vegetables rolled in the center of the socca.  It makes my mouth water just telling you about it!

Pao de Queijo

Last summer while on vacation we discovered Casado from Costa Rica.  It is a traditional lunch that is exceptionally season and consists of rice, beans, plantains, marinated meat or chicken and a vegetable salad, simple, but delicious!  Also from down South, we came across Pao de Queijo, Brazilian cheese bread made from cassava. My son now begs for this as an afternoon treat.

Now don’t start thinking that I have jumped off the edge and started trekking around the world like Anthony Bourdain to feast on exotic insects.  I can assure you that is NOT going to happen any time soon, and generally speaking, I try to stick with the more tame (and not moving on my plate) gastronomic delights!  I would love to hear what amazing foods you have discovered from around the world; please share them with us!

ENJOY!

Patricia