With the holidays around the corner, I start to get a little anxious about food. I have celiac, which is a wheat/gluten food allergy. Since I’ll be a guest at the infamous Thanksgiving dinner, I have to be prepared. One small food choice can cost me 48 hours of ick.
The first thing I do is begin searching for gluten free recipes that I might enjoy. That’s right, recipes that “I” might like. I hate to be selfish but I have to like it first and foremost. Once I hone in on a few side dishes that I can make and take to the gathering, I pick up the phone. About 2 weeks before the event, I visit with the host about the menu. I don’t beat around the bush about anything. Simply put, “I have celiac. Would you mind sharing your menu with me?” It’s that simple. Some say that’s rude but when it comes to a food allergy, I don’t take chances. In the past I’ve winged it and I end up paying a big price for my own laziness. I’m my best advocate.
Usually the host is totally fine with sharing or planning a menu that might need tweaking. Here’s where it gets tricky. The turkey. Is it gluten free? I have to know. Not all turkeys are processed gluten free. Some have been injected with brine containing additives and/or preservatives which contain gluten. Look for Jennie-O, Norbest and some Butterball turkeys. READ THE LABELS!
If the host has no idea that if the turkey is gluten free or not, then I always offer to bring another small bird that is gluten free and already cooked. Really, this can a life-saver. The last thing I want to do is make add another expense or more work for the host. In addition to bringing another bird, I also offer to bring gravy, since gravy is usually prepared with flour. If the host insists on providing gravy, then I suggest the host use corn starch instead of flour to make it gluten free. What I end up getting is my own gravy boat! I feel special and I am very appreciative.
Ok so, I’ve got the bird and the gravy taken care of. That was easy. Now, I offer to bring a gluten free side dish and of course a gluten free pie. The host most always accepts gladly. At this point, all my bases are covered and the host is happy and so will my gut be. Yay!!!
With a little planning, chatting and cooking, every body is happy! No host wants to have someone in their bathroom sick or starving at their table because all the food is laced with gluten. This approach seems to work for me. The hosts in my life always provide gluten free options that are delicious. Taking control of your dinner destiny is huge when it comes to gluten. Be your own advocate.
Now go start planning your gluten free meal!
Lisa Garrett
info@eat2succeed.xyz