Chickpeas are So Versatile

Sometimes I think there is nothing more versatile than chickpeas. And yes, before you ask, people call them garbanzo beans as well. Same thing. Before I wrote about 5 gluten free ways to eat chickpeas, but today I want to share a method I forgot. FRIED.

That’s right. Process those soaked chickpeas in a food processor, make it into a loose batter, and you have the basis for vegan, gluten free FALAFEL. Just add onion, garlic, cumin, parsley, etc. to your preferred palate and get cookin’!

The Best Falafel Starts with RAW Chickpeas

Recently I visited Teta’s Grill in Flushing, Michigan. Sadly, they fry their falafel in a shared fryer with chicken fingers. So, no falafel for me*. Between that and a package of BFree Foods gluten free pita in my freezer, I felt determined to make my own gluten free falafel. (*Teta’s Grill can now make gluten free falafel in a separate fryer!)

At first I thought “How hard can it be?” I figured I would blend cooked chickpeas with spices and fry it. Um, yeah. Totally wrong. Big mistake. To make gluten free falafel from scratch, you gotta start with soaked, uncooked chickpeas.

Is Falafel Fried Or Baked?

From there, making gluten free falafel “batter” is a snap. Or a whirl in the food processor as the case may be. In full transparency, I researched a lot of recipes before coming up with mine. Some recipes called for baking, like this Easy Falafel Recipe by From My Bowl.

However, most suggested frying, like this Crispy Falafel Recipe from Cookie and Kate. I baked a few, for research sake. Now, if you want to avoid frying, you can. However, the resulting gluten free falafel won’t turn golden brown, nor will they be crunchy on the outside.

Deep Frying Falafel VS. Air Frying

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “I hate frying. It’s messy and I guarantee I will burn myself.” (Or maybe that’s just me?) Let me tell ya, I successfully fried these in small batches and did NOT burn myself. I used less oil by doing it in a small pot, and had more control over frying times and temps.

Trust me, if I can pull this off, so can you. I imagine you could use a deep fryer to make these. You might also be able to pull this off in an air fryer. I don’t have one, so you’ll have to check this recipe for Air Fried Falafel from Nutrition Refined for tips on that.

Proud Foodie Mama

Seriously, LOOK at these beauties. I feel like a proud momma over here. See how crispy they are on the outside? And the vibrant touch of green from the parsley on the inside? I may need a moment to collect myself over here. Seriously, when I took this picture, I sent it to friends like I was sharing a baby picture. Especially since this gluten free falafel recipe is the first time I ever fried ANYTHING. What can I say? I’m a (darn lucky) natural!

How Do You Serve Gluten Free Falafel?

Now, you have multiple options for serving these gluten free falafel. Obviously, you can eat them freshly cooked and shove them in your mouth like my husband and I did. However, should you choose to have a bit more manners than us, you can serve them in BFree Foods gluten free (and Top 8 free!) pita bread.

Can I Freeze Falafel?

This gluten free falafel tastes amazing in a buddha bowl too! This recipe makes A LOT, so just freeze and reheat for a quick meal! Allow the falafel to cool completely, and then I would place them on a cookie sheet and freeze them for an hour. After that, you can transfer them to a bag.

To reheat gluten free frozen falafel, I would follow Taste As You Go‘s suggestion and warm that in a 350 degree oven for 15-30 minutes.

What restaurant foods do you miss most? Do you fry foods at home, and if so, what? Leave me a note in the comments, and let me know what I should make next!

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Gluten Free Falafel

Ingredients

• 1 lb dry chickpeas soaked overnight
• 3/4 yellow onion finely chopped
• 1 oz parsley leaves
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

• Place chickpeas in large bowl, and add enough water to cover beans and soak overnight. 
• When ready to prepare gluten free falafel, finely chop onion. 
• Combine all ingredients in food processor and blend until a course meal is formed. 
• Transfer mixture to a very large bowl and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. This allows the starch in the chickpeas to leach out, allowing you to to form the falafel. 
• Using a one ounce scoop, create mounds of falafel “batter.” It will not be sticky like cookie dough, but instead fairly loose. Make balls and place on a cookie sheet. Do this until all the “batter” is formed. Scooping it all beforehand allows you to cook them quickly. 
• In a small to medium pot, pour in enough oil to create 3″ depth. (I use a smaller pot to do this, as it uses less oil.) Preheat oil to 350-375 degrees. I used a kitchen thermometer to gauge mine. 
• Depending on the size of your pot, place 4-6 falafel in the hot oil. Cook gluten free falafel two minutes per side, and then place on paper towel to absorb excess grease. Repeat with remaining falafel “batter” until all cooked. 
• Best served hot and fresh. However, they can be frozen and reheated in oven or microwave. Serve with tahini or garlic sauce.

**While I mention BFree Foods, this post is not sponsored by them. (They did however give me a free package of pita bread at the Chicago GFAF Expo.) All thoughts and opinions are my own. This post does contain affiliate links.**

Originally Published 2018

The post Gluten Free Falafel: Vegetarian Chickpea Balls appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

My Introduction to Lebanese Green Bean Stew

I remember when I was introduced to Lebanese Green Bean Stew. For years, I worked at Curves, which was a fitness facility for women. One of my clients, Liz, invited us to her Assyrian church for a a community meal. At first, I assumed I couldn’t actually eat anything there. When I realized that their Lebanese Green Bean Stew was gluten free, I was so excited. I’ve since left that job, but every time I have this dish, I think of her.

What’s in Lebanese Green Bean Stew?

This recipe contains only 5 main ingredients: green beans, beef, onions, tomatoes and spices. You might be surprised to learn what the secret spice that ties this dish all together. Cinnamon! It may sound strange to some, but trust me when I say Lebanese Green Bean Stew is not the same without it.

What Do You Serve with Green Bean Stew?

This dish is a hearty meal in itself. However, should you want to round this out with some sides, I have a few suggestions! My recipe for naturally gluten free falafel pairs nicely with this dish. Fry up a few while your Lebanese Green Bean Stew is, well, stewing.

If you’re looking for pita to add to the dinner table, I highly suggest this Gluten Free Pita from GF Jules. Of note, this recipe makes quite a bit of stew, and actually tastes better the longer is sets. Whoever gets leftovers the next day is one lucky person!

More Lebanese and Mediterranean Recipes

I highly recommend following Yumna from Feel Good Foodie. A fellow Michigander, she has many naturally gluten free recipes. I want to try her Mujadara and Chicken Shawarma. These are just some of the recipes you’ll find in her Ramadan collection.

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One Pot Lebanese Green Bean Stew

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion diced
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 14 oz cans diced tomatoes
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 2-3 cups water
• 1 lb green beans fresh, trimmed and cut into small pieces
• Cooked rice as a base

Instructions

• Cook the ground beef in a large pot or skillet. Once cooked, remove beef from pan and discard grease. Wipe pot to remove excess grease.
• Place pot back on stove and add 1 tbsp oil. Warm, and saute chopped onion over low-medium heat for 5 minutes. 
• Add garlic and spices and continue to cook 2 minutes or so. This allows the garlic to cook and the spices to toast and deepen their flavors.  
• To the pot, add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, water and green beans. I would start with two cups of water. If the stew becomes thicker than you prefer, add an additional cup of water at the end of cooking.
• Cook for 30 minutes, until the fresh green beans are soft. (You can use frozen, but I would put them in after already cooking the stew for 15 minutes.) 
• Serve stew hot, over a 1 cup serving of the Path of Life Mediterranean Quinoa blend. 

What stews do you love to cook? What are your favorite dishes to cook, using fresh grown items from your garden. Please feel free to drop recipe links below!

Originally published July 2018

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What Gluten Free Options Does Teta’s Grill Offer?

Teta’s Grill gluten free options include all meats except the gyro meat (which contains bread crumbs) and the breaded chicken fingers. (They fry their falafel and French fries in the same oil as breaded items. Therefore, they do not suggested those with Celiac Disease eat these items.) The pita and desserts are off limits too.

What Other Food Allergies Do They Accommodate?

Their menu goes beyond gluten free offerings, though. All meals are absolutely egg free. No mayonnaise used at all in this establishment! In addition, they use no butter or artificial ingredients. All entrees are cooked FROM scratch. (Bread is bought premade in Dearborn.) Everything is cooked fresh, and made to order.

Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Appetizers

I started my Teta’s grill gluten free dinner with Lentil soup. They slow cook lentils in homemade vegetable stock (no bouillon) for a Lebanese food that hits the spot. (If you’d ever like to try making it at home, I suggest this Red Lentil Soup recipe from The Kitchn.) 

I also ordered Teta’s Grill gluten free grape leaves. Rarely do I get get to eat these things. I cannot imaging the time and energy it takes to soften the leaves and wrap these. This requires patience i do not have. Therefore, grape leaves are definitely a treat!

Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Entrees

After consuming our Teta’s Grill gluten free appetizers, we dove into our entrees. My husband ordered the  Lamb Shish Kabob, while I ordered the Deboned Chicken. I do not exaggerate when I say my husband commented “this may be the best lamb I’ve ever eaten.”

I tried a bit of his lamb, and I agree that it was juicy and delicious! My deboned chicken was delicious as well. I cut mine up into small bites and mixed it into my rice, dipping it into their homemade, vegan garlic sauce. I let my husband enjoy the house made pickled turnip on my plate.

Just Like Mom Used to Make

The owner spent time talking to us about the story behind his restaurant. He named it after his mother. She was instrumental behind the yearly “our Lady Of Lebanon Mideast Festival.

He learned all he knew about cooking from her. My husband and I have visited this local festival many times. Knowing that his family remains connected to this great event made this meal experience even better.

How Teta’s Grill Prevents Cross Contact

While this picture isn’t the best, I hope you notice the different color knives. Teta’s Grill designates each color knife for different types of food. The green knives and matching green cutting boards are used only for vegetables. There’s a dedicated cutting board and knife for bread, so those gluten filled crumbs don’t inadvertently find their way into your food.

The yellow and red knives are for different types of meats. In addition, they change their gloves with every meal they prepare, to prevent any chance of cross-contact. I find this level of forethought simply fascinating.

The owner was very open, totally okay with me taking this picture, and proud to show just how clean and neat they maintain their kitchen. They have exemplary notices from the health department, and they even post them proudly for customers to see!

So, if you find yourself in Flushing for their Summer Festival or their Christmastime Candlewalk, stop in for a delicious Teta’s Grill gluten free meal. Just know that they close on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 pm, and are closed on Sundays. Let me know if you decide to stop in, and what you order!

Restaurant Address and Contact Information

Teta’s Grill
6429 Pierson Rd #13
Flushing, MI 48433
(810) 487-9799
Hours Open Mon/Wed/Fri 11 am – 8 pm, Saturday 2-8 pm, CLOSED Tues/Thurs/ Sunday
Website | Facebook | Instagram

All thoughts and opinions are my own. Teta’s Grill is one of many Michigan restaurants I’ve visited. You can a list of them on my  Michigan gluten free dining post. Please remember to always ask any restaurant about their food preparation practices. I was not paid or compensated in any way for this meal.

Originally Published July 2018

The post Teta’s Grill Gluten Free Lebanese Cuisine appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Why Hummus is a Great Addition to a Healthy Gluten-Free Diet

A typical (traditional) hummus recipe has a few obligatory ingredients, which are also part of a healthy diet. These include chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a power house of nutrition. One cup of chickpeas has 14 grams of high quality protein and 12 grams of fiber. Chickpeas are also high in folate, which helps in the production of red blood cells. This is ideal for those with Celiac Disease, because many suffer from anemia, or a lack of red blood cells.

Health Benefits of Tahini  / Sesame Seeds

Hummus also contains tahini. Tahini is sesame seed paste. Tahini is an excellent source of copper. One of copper’s main roles is to help incorporate iron into red blood cells. Copper is also an antioxidant and maintains structure of the blood vessels. Tahini is used in a multitude of Middle Eastern dishes. I’ve also found it to be great on salmon!

Why You Should Add More Lemon to Your Diet

Hummus also contains lemon juice. Which is also, surprise, a good source of folate! It’s also an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. My mother had an uncle that swore by the benefits of hot water and lemon every morning. If memory serves me right, he lived very happily well into his nineties.

So what are you waiting for? Make a batch for yourself and eat to your health! Wanting to fulfill your sweet tooth? Try these 7 Vegan Dessert Hummus Recipes, gathered by Vegans Baby.

Print

Hummus

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 c. cooked chickpeas one can
• 1/4 water from can of chickpeas
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cumin

Instructions

• Place chickpeas in mini food processor, along with water and garlic, and blend / puree until almost smooth.
• Remove lid and add olive oil, tahini and lemon juice. Replace lid and blend thoroughly.
• Remove lid and add salt, and cumin. Puree thoroughly.
• Using rubber scraper, scoop out hummus from mini processor and into bowl. Hummus can be eaten immediately, but it better after having chilled a few hours.
• Enjoy with vegetables, crackers or use as a spread on sandwiches!

Looking for other great chickpea recipes? Check out 4 of my favorite chickpea recipes, including brownies! I also highly recommend this Vegetarian Mock Tuna Casserole from VegetarianMamma!

**This post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

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Chicago is like the New York City of the Midwest. Huge buildings, big attractions, and throngs of visitors. Did you know one of its nicknames is actually the “Heart of America?” That’s because it is one of the biggest transportation centers in the country, as well as being near the geographic center of the U.S.

Downtown and Central Chicago Gluten Free Eateries

Dedicated Gluten Free Eateries

Wheat’s End Cafe

This 100% gluten-free restaurant is just lovely. With zero concern that my meal could possibly make me sick from ingesting gluten, I wholeheartedly ate without abandon. Lamb meatloaf, English muffins, and more. It was so amazing I wrote an entire article about it. Read it here!

BiBiBop Asian Grill

BiBiBop recently made big news when they changed their menu to be 100% gluten free. There are locations across the midwest, although none currently in Michigan. Find them in Chicago at DuPaul University, and in Schaumburg. 

Chesa’s Bistro and Bar

Chesa’s  Bistro and Bar is a soul food restaurant. Located on Addison St., it’s not too far from Wrigley Field.

Defloured Bakery

I discovered Defloured Bakery a few years ago, thanks to the recommendations of MANY friends. This quaint bake shop offers everything from cookies to muffins to S’mores bars. Yeah, you know I bought one! Located in Andersonville neighborhood, you’ll also find some adorable shops in the area, too!

Eateries with Gluten Free Protocols

True Food Kitchen

This chain location in Chicago is the closest True Food Kitchen to Michigan. Created by Dr. Andrew Weil, the menu focuses on foods that are anti inflammatory. I highly recommend the Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Read about my visit to their Houston location for more indepth information.

* Wildfire –

Again, I have not eaten at this establishment. However, I hear great reviews from many. Wildfire is part of the Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant chain. Many I know have stated that many of the restaurants in this chain have undergone training on preventing cross contact with gluten. 

Do Rite Donuts

This is the photo that blew up my Instagram account. That’s because there’s nothing quite like a Do Rite Donut. Gluten Free donuts are prepared in dedicated fryers, and stored in their own separate cases. They are first come, first serve though. So I recommend getting to one of their locations early!

Greater Chicago Gluten Free Eateries

Egg Harbor Cafe

It’s taken me a few trips to Chicago to finally make it here, and it was everything I dreamed it would be. Egg Harbor Cafe has multiple locations throughout Chicagoland. They have an extensive gluten-free menu and serve Sweet Ali’s pancakes and cinnamon rolls.

Dedicated Gluten Free Bakeries

Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery (Hinsdale)

Speaking of Sweet Ali’s, you gotta visit this place. (Check out my photos from my 2017 visit!) I met them years ago at the Nourished Festival, and I’ve been in love with them ever since. Their decorated cookies look amazing and their cinnamon rolls are to DIE for! They make vegan items as well, for those avoiding egg and dairy.

Schaumburg Gluten Free Eateries

Weber Grill (also available in downtown Chicago)

I ate here with friends a few years ago during a special event. They offered us many options, all tasting wonderful. What impressed me most was the manager and his openness to recommendations and suggestions. I would definitely eat here again.

Roti Mediterranean Grill

Roti Mediterranean Grill (also available downtown)
I first fell in love with Roti in 2014. They offer delicious gluten-free Mediterranean food AND gluten-free pita bread?! This fast casual restaurant is like Chipotle, only with chicken kabobs instead of burritos. They also serve gluten-free falafel. Locations include Chicago and Washington D.C., with new locations in the works.

Ben J Yehuda

Ben J Yehuda (also available downtown Chicago)

I discovered Ben J Yehuda through the Find Me Gluten Free app. As always, I asked additional questions to verify that they change gloves and use a dedicated gluten free fryer. Similar in concept to Roti, they offer schwarma, falafel, French fries and more.

“Meacham Mile” 

As you drive down Meacham in Schaumburg, lots of restaurants exist with gluten free options. Use the Find Me Gluten Free app to search for local restaurants. However, always remember to ask your own questions about food preparations before dining.

Other Gluten Free Chicago Dining Recommendations

• Some of my Instagram followers shared their suggestions on this post.
• Erica from Celiac and the Beast toured Chicago with Enjoy Life and shared her gluten free Chicago experience on her website.

Must-Visit Chicago Landmarks

Millenium Park
Millenium Park is home to sculptures, water fountains, gardens, outdoor pavilions and more. The most famous attraction is probably the Cloud Gate. It’s often referred to as the Bean, because it’s shaped like a kidney bean. This polished stainless steel structure reflects the city skyline.

True story, the person at the edge of the photo in the blue shirt is my husband. He was taking a picture of a family on vacation, using their camera. When he was done, we realized they lived in a city less than 20 miles from our house in Flint. Small world, huh?

Image from Wikipedia.com

The Chicago Theater
Confession – I’m a NPR junkie. My favorite show is Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me, and it is taped weekly at the Chase Auditorium. The theater has many other shows that you can take in. From musicians to comedians and more, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Of course there are many other famous places to visit. Shedd’s Aquarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, Navy Pier, and so much more. You can take in a baseball game at Wrigley Field (which serves Gilbert’s gluten-free sausages!) or simply take in the beauty of the coastline.

Trying to do Chicago on the cheap? Check out this list of FREE things to do in Chicago, from This Worthey Life.

Travel and Parking

As downtown Chicago is a busy place, I HIGHLY suggest getting a Ventra Card. This multi-use transportation card gets you on all the bus lines and some of the trains. The rates are very affordable and it makes getting around the city SO much easier. I also recommend using the SpotHero app to find close and affordable parking.

If you travel often, I recommend investing in an I-Pass. It’s a transponder that helps you pay tolls, as you drive. The transponder also works with toll systems in 15 other states, such as Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, New York and New York. The money you add to your I Pass account doesn’t diminish over time. 

What are some of your favorite gluten free Chicago dining options? Feel free to leave recommendations below. As always, if you choose to eat at a location, verify their practices before ordering. 

Originally Published June 2016

The post Gluten Free Chicago – Dining and Sights appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.