Welcoming Gluten Free Guests
Food allergies and sensitivities are increasingly common. You probably have at least one friend or family member who has special dietary needs of some sort. It can be a bit intimidating to think of having to feed someone with food sensitivities, I know. No one wants to risk making a loved one sick. But, it really doesn’t have to be so stressful. With just a little information, and maybe a specialty baker in your back pocket, you can host a great party or dinner with confidence. This post will address gluten free guests specifically, but many of the ideas I’ll share are easily applied to other sensitivities as well.
Gluten is a protein found in some grains, such as wheat, rye, and barley. It is also extracted from the grains and used as an agent for thickening, protein, or texture. This means that it can be found in seasonings, soups, and condiments that you might not think to check. It won’t be enough to assume that your guest can just avoid the bread and be safe.
DO
Focus On Naturally Gluten Free Foods
Potatoes, rice, meats, and dairy foods are all naturally gluten free. Instead of serving pasta or pizza, try a taco bar or a baked potato bar. Even if you end up having some items that are not gluten free, your guests will be able to make their plates with the foods that work for them while still feeling included.
Read Labels
Seasonings, soups, and snacks can have hidden gluten. It is generally safest to find a product that specifically says “gluten free” somewhere on it, as the manufacturer has to meet certain standards to be able to put that label on the product. Foods that don’t come with nutrition labels, like fresh fruits and veggies, are naturally gluten free and safe to use. It it’s been packaged, it has the potential to have an additive that contains gluten. Always read the labels to be sure you aren’t accidentally exposing your guests to something that can make them sick.
Ask About Favorite Products
There are a ton of gluten free products on the market now. Not all of them are good. Your gluten free guests have likely tried a lot of different things and can tell you which products are tasty and which are not. If you are going to try to provide a gluten free alternative for your guests, like, say, hamburger buns, take the time to find out which company makes hamburger buns they will want to eat.
Don’t
Forget About Cross Contamination
Small amounts of wheat flour and crumbs can spell big trouble for someone who is gluten sensitive. Make sure you clean up well after baking conventional items and before prepping gluten free foods. Don’t put regular items and gluten free items on the same platters. Provide different serving utensils for regular foods and gluten free foods. When possible use condiments that can be squeezed for dispensing rather than big jars since a knife or spoon that has touched regular bread may contaminate the whole jar. Gluten free baked goods should be baked separately from regular treats and fresh parchment paper should be used to ensure the surface is not contaminated.
Make Assumptions
Potlucks are awesome, but when a lot of people are bringing food you’ll need to make sure everyone knows about food sensitivities and can provide a full ingredient list of anything they’re sharing. Have labels available so food can be clearly marked as gluten free or not gluten free. Consider having guests bring specific items rather than open potluck. Make sure you provide several items you know are gluten free so that if many items brought are not gluten free your guests will still have several things to choose from.
Make It Too Hard
At the end of the day, spending time with loved ones is way too important to miss. A simple meal with people you care about is always special. Gluten free baked goods are different and may be more complicated than you want to take on. That’s okay. There are many specialty businesses now that provide items for different dietary needs. Get to know the ones near you and take advantage of the help they offer. Keep it simple and enjoy the time.
Welcoming your gluten free friends to the table doesn’t have to be hard or stressful. There are so many options available in stores now and so many recipes available online to try. But, if you’re still intimidated by the idea, look for personal chef and catering options that can make the perfect meal happen without the stress. Legacy Homestead is one such option. We are passionate about making sure everyone can join the party safely and we will work hard to make a delicious meal that works for all your guests. Our homestead bakery is always working on new gluten free offerings, too. Whatever you choose, choose to spend the time together. Don’t miss an opportunity with loved ones because of special dietary needs. Time goes too fast and tomorrow is not promised. Have the party.
