What is Gnocchi?

If gluten-free gnocchi is delicious, gluten-free sweet potato gnocchi is divine. “What’s gnocchi” you ask? I think of them as pillowy soft, grown-up tater tots. Technically, gnocchi is a pasta. While made with potato, it also contains flour. I first made this with a blend I received in a Savorfulll box years ago. This time, I’m making it with Cup 4 Cup flour.

I did not create this recipe on my own. I have recently fallen in love with the non-gluten free website, Dessert for Two. Don’t be dissuaded by the title. It contains more than dessert recipes. For example, author Christina Lane has a recipe for Pumpkin Gnocchi. If one can swap potatoes for pumpkin in pie, one can surely do so in gnocchi! Which is exactly what I did.

How Do I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes?

The night before I planned to recreate my gluten free sweet potato gnocchi, I wrapped my sweet potatoes in foil and baked them in the oven. Probably at 350 degrees. Probably for 30 minutes. I’m terrible at remembering some of these things. Sorry.

I’m sure you can do a Google search for how to make sweet potatoes and find a myriad of answers. To keep my sweet potatoes moist, I cooled them and stored them in previously mentioned foil. Why clean more dishes than you need to, am I right?

Secret Ingredient? Ricotta Cheese

Standard gnocchi contains potato, flour and egg. However, Dessert for Two’s Christina Lane also uses Ricotta cheese. In addition to the egg in the recipe, it helps the dough hold together.

It rolled so incredibly well. It required very little extra flour for rolling. Which if we’re honest, is one other reason gnocchi is great. It’s like reliving your childhood days of playing with Play-Doh. Except these are made with wheat-free ingredients and you actually get to eat it when you’re done.

How Do You Shape Fresh Gluten Free Gnocchi?

Roll gluten-free sweet potato gnocchi dough into 3/4 inch snakes, cut them into 3/4 inch pieces, and then roll them down the back side of a fork. That creates the really cool grooves that you find in traditional gnocchi. Thanks Lidia Bostianich for that tip!

How Do You Cook Gluten Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

The directions from Lane’s original recipe instruct you to cook / fry these in melted butter. I did. And they were everything I longed for. Soft. Decadent. And totally worth keeping ALL to myself. (I did end up sharing. Because my husband has an adorable smile. He’s lucky.)

Can I Freeze This Gnocchi?

You can also boil these in water. When I originally made these gluten-free sweet potato gnocchi years ago, we then froze them on a cookie sheet. We did this because it wouldn’t be served until the next day at my aunt’s house. When it was time to cook them, I cooked them in straight chicken broth. No prior thawing, and no diluting with water.

I wasn’t very exact on the cooking times. I just cooked them until I thought they were done. (Traditionally you cook them until they rise to the surface.) They tasted fantastic and my uncle even had seconds.

They were a great compliment to the roasted Cornish game hens and wild rice stuffing of our Christmas dinner. These gluten-free sweet potato gnocchi would be great for Thanksgiving too! Click here to get other Thanksgiving menu ideas, from A to Z!

Have you ever made sweet potato gnocchi? What recipe do you follow? What are some of your favorite dishes to make for Christmas? Leave me a note below!

Print

Gluten Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Ingredients

• 4 oz ricotta cheese
• 1/3 c cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 c Cup 4 Cup gluten-free flour

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350. Roast sweet potatoes, whole, for 30-45 minutes. Store in foil and allow to cool overnight in the fridge. 
• Prepare the gnocchi dough. Combine all ingredients EXCEPT for the flour. Christina Lane says to do this to prevent the formation of gluten. Which won’t theoretically happen due to the use of gluten-free flour, but let’s follow directions for the sake of matter. 
• After the “wet” items have been thoroughly blended together, slowly add the flour. Mix together until just combined. 
• Flour a board (or I use a Silpat) and dump dough onto a floured surface. I find it best to divide the dough in half or thirds. This makes it easier to roll and cut. 
• Roll dough into long strips. (Let’s be honest childhood friends, we’re making edible dough snakes here.) Cut into 3/4 to 1 inch portions. 
• Melt butter in a skillet. Cook gluten-free sweet potato gnocchi in melted butter in batches. Cook 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and repeat. Allow to drain on a paper towel. 
• Alternate cooking method – Bring water or broth to boil and drop gnocchi in liquid. Cook approximately 3 minutes or until gnocchi floats to top.

**This post is not sponsored by the brands mentioned in this post. However, this post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published December 2012

The post Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What is Chebe?

Chebe uses tapioca (manioc) starch as the base for their grain free mixes. Made from the cassava root, tapioca flour is “the starch extracted from the cassava root through a process of washing and pulping.” Cassava flour, on the other hand, is the complete root, ground up and turned into flour. (Learn this and more from 5 Things You Need to Know About Cassava Flour by Downshiftology.)

Chebe cinnamon roll mix contains just 6 ingredients. “Tapioca Flour, cane sugar, modified tapioca starch, iodine-free sea salt, and cinnamon.” You can use it to make Cinnamon Rolls, obviously. However, you can also this mix to make my Mini Apple Cheesecakes or these Gluten Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies from Savory Celiac.

What is a Slab Pie?

Well, basically it’s as it sounds. It’s flat slab instead of round. Why make pie in a sheet pan? It’s easier to store and to cut. Everyone is going to want a piece of this grain free pumpkin slab pie, and I want to be as fair in my slices as possible. Plus, it cooks faster, in half the time as a regular pie.

In truth, you can easily transform any regular pie into a slab pie. I followed quite a few of these tips from King Arthur Flour to do so. However, their guidelines use a half sheet pan. I’m using my (favorite) quarter sheet pan I bought at Gordon Food Center. (I use them for EVERYTHING!) Therefore, I cut their recommendations in half.

Pan Size  – Jelly Roll Vs Sheet Pan

Let’s go back to those pans for a second. There are many recipes for making pumpkin slab pies. Many utilize a jelly roll pan, which has different dimensions than a quarter sheet pan. Many bakers use a 10 x 15 jelly roll pan. However I prefer these quarter sheet pans, which measure approx. 9 in by 13 in. (Half sheet pans are 18 in x 13 in.)

Living in a two person household, I find myself using this quarter sheet pan to make all sorts of “smaller” items. For instance, I cut What the Fork’s Gluten Free Pumpkin Cake recipe in half, baked it in this, and it turned out PERFECT! These pans are also great for smaller homemade pizzas, and I use them for breading chicken.

Tips for Making the Custard for this Slab Pie

I read one tip that I think made this Grain Free Pumpkin Slab Pie go from “sweet” to “stellar.” I prepared the custard base ahead of time and let it refrigerate an hour or two. It’s not absolutely necessary, but it helps the pumpkin absorb the sugar and spices.

Another tip on adding the custard to the crust. King Arthur also recommends placing the sheet pan, with crust inside, on the oven rack. THEN pour in the custard. This is because the filling can be a bit runny, and having the pan on a stable shelf prevents spilling it on the way to the oven. People be smart.

Thanksgiving and Other Gluten Free Slab Pie Recipes

This Grain Free Pumpkin Slab Pie tastes great with or without whip cream. Of course, it’s the perfect dessert for any Thanksgiving gathering. If this is your first time preparing / hosting this holiday, check out my A-Z tips for a Gluten Free Thanksgiving. And keep those leftovers handy for Waffled Stuffing and Chebe Thanksgiving Pasties!

Now that I’ve introduced you to this grain free Pumpkin Slab Pie, try some other sheet pan pies. For those avoiding eggs & dairy, this Gluten Free Vegan Triple Berry Slab Pie from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free sounds amazing. And since pop tarts are basically just hand held pies, this Giant Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart from A Dash of Megnut should be on your baking list!

Recipe Adjustments

Can I Make this as a Regular Round Pie?

You sure can! Simply roll the crust into a circle and place in a regular 9″ round pie pan. Make sure to press the dough up the sides of the pan. I highly recommend chilling any pie crust prior to baking, as it prevents it from shrinking in the oven. Check out my post on using Chebe to make pie crust, for more recommendations.

I Don’t Eat Dairy and/or Eggs. How Can I Adapt This Recipe?

For those who avoid dairy, you can attempt using dairy free butter or shortening in the crust. For those who eat egg-free, I would recommend trying Sarah Bakes Gluten Free’s Vegan Pumpkin Pie.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Print

Grain Free Pumpkin Slab Pie

Equipment

• Chebe – Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll-Ups Mix – 7.5 oz.(pack of 2)
• Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin, 15oz Can ( Pack of 5 )
• Organic Cane Sugar Crystals (5lb) –

Ingredients

For the filling (From Libby’s website)

• 1/4 c brown sugar
• 1/2 c white sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 2 eggs
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin
• 1 12 oz can evaporated milk
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the crust

• 1 pkg Chebe Cinnamon Roll Mix
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 egg
• 4 tbsp cold butter cut into chunks
• 4 tbsp ice cold water

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine ingredients for the filling (sugar, spices, salt, eggs, pumpkin and evaporated milk), and whisk until completely combined. Cover bowl with saran wrap and refrigerate for one to two hours. 
• Meanwhile, prepare the crust. Add the Chebe Cinnamon Roll mix to a food processor, along with the oil and egg. Use a fork to quickly mix them together. (This prevents loose powder from flying all over the processor!) 
• To that, add the cold butter. Pulse until a dry sand texture develops. This should take 6-7 pulses. 
• Slowly add the ice cold water to the processor, one tablespoon at a time. Process until a ball of dough forms. 
• My dough ball weighed approximately 14 ounces. I separated it into a 10 oz portion for the crust, and a 4 oz portion for the leaf cutouts. (If you don't have a scale, use 2/3 of the dough for the crust, and 1/3 of the dough for the cutouts.)
• Lightly flour a work surface with grain free flour or tapioca starch. Roll the large portion of dough into a large rectangle, approximately 11 by 15 inches. (Reynolds parchment paper is marked with 2 inch squares, which is helpful for this.)
• Transfer crust to an ungreased quarter sheet pan. Use your fingers to press into place, making sure dough forms up the sides of the pan. 
• Place pan in refrigerator for 15-20 minutes for crust to chill. Doing so prevents the crust from shrinking as it bakes. 
• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Once oven is preheated, removed crust and filling from the refrigerator. Pour approximately half of the pie filling into the prepared crust. 
• Open the oven, and slide out the bottom baking rack, positioned in the middle of the oven. Place partially filled pie on rack. Pour the remaining portion of the filling into the pan, push in baking rack, and close oven door. (I did it this way as to prevent the filling from spilling while transferring from the counter to the oven. You may also want to place a cookie sheet on the bottom baking rack to prevent spills in the oven, should your pie filling bake over the pan.) 
• Bake the pie at 425 for 10 minutes. Then, immediately turn the temperature down to 350, and continue to bake for another 20 minutes. Bake until the outer edges of the slab pie are set, and the center is ever so slightly jiggly. 
• Remove pan from oven and allow to cool to room temperature. (After mine cooled I placed it in the refrigerator for several hours.) 
• While the pie is cooling, work on your leaf cutouts, if you choose to do them. Roll the remaining 4 ounces of dough into a thin layer. I used pie crust cutters to make the leaves. Press down gently on the plunger to make the inner leaf indentations. Even though I planned to cut the pie into 12 portions, my remaining dough made more than 12 cutouts. They make great "graham cracker" shapes for later snacking! 
• Transfer raw cutouts to a lined cookie sheet. Spray them with oil, and bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove immediately and allow to cool. 
• When ready to serve the pumpkin slab pie, cut into equal portions and adorn each piece with a leaf cutout. Add whip cream if desired, but I would add whip cream first and then top it with a leaf cutout. 

**Chebe sponsored this post by compensating me for my time and energy. This post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally published October 2019

The post Grain Free Pumpkin Slab Pie appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How To Make a Gluten Free Thanksgiving Feast

Preparing a gluten free Thanksgiving dinner is more than just about using gluten free products. Cross contact must be taken into consideration, as well. My post “Gluten Free Thanksgiving from A to Z” offers insight on menu suggestions, links to recipes, and other tips to keep your meal safe for those with Celiac Disease. Recipes links include dairy free options, as well.

Questions About Gluten Free Products and Where to Buy Them

On my website, I focus on gluten free products and ingredients. However, I know that many of you have additional dietary restrictions. Therefore, I’ve linked each product to their respective website. That way you can look up ingredients to see if a product meets your dietary needs. In addition, each website should have a “Where to Buy” or “Store Locator” tab. Click there, input your zip code, and see where you can find these items, near you.

Be Aware of Similar Product Packaging

Some brands make a gluten free version of a product, and a non gluten free version. For example. Trader Joe’s makes a gluten free stuffing and a non gluten-free stuffing. In addition, they’re often on the same end cap, since they’re seasonal. Make sure you’re grabbing the right product, and read labels. In addition, Fresh Thyme sells gluten free french fried onions, and non- gluten free version. They’re packaging are different colors. Read my post on other brands with similar packaging, for more examples. 

Important Note About Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce

Many Green Bean Casserole recipes call for adding soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Make sure you’re using a gluten free brand. I use San J Tamari in place of soy sauce. In addition, I use Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce. Please know that while Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce is gluten free in the United States, it is not in other countries. For those who cannot eat soy, consider using coconut aminos, instead. 

Gluten Free Turkey

• Butterball (available at Aldi) (Gravy packets are gluten free)
• Honeysuckle White
• Jennie-O Whole Turkey
• Meijer True Goodness Frozen Turkey
• Shady Brook Farms (at Walmart)
• Honeybaked Ham Turkey Breast (and whole turkey, smoked & non- smoked)

List of gluten free Turkey brands, from 2022.

Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

• Pacific Foods 
• Progresso Soup (not condensed) 
• Campbell’s
• Full Flavor Foods (soup mix)
• Amy’s Kitchen
• Good Graces (HyVee)

(Whole Foods 365 Cream of Mushroom soup is not marked gluten free, but its ingredients are identical to Pacific Foods Mushroom soup.)+

Gluten Free French Fried Onions

• Fresh Thyme Seasonal
• Golden Farms (available at Harvest Health in MI)
• ALDI ONIONS NO LONGER GF
• Trader Joe’s Fried Shallots
• Trader Joe’s Sour Cream and Onion Rings (near chips)
• Good Graces (HyVee)

Please know that Aldi Organic French Onions are no longer gluten free. Kroger Simple Truth Gluten Free French Onions have been discontinued.

Gluten Free Stuffing

• Aleia’s Gluten Free  (box)
• Aldi (seasonal) 
• Trader Joe’s (seasonal)
• Aleia’s Gluten Free Cook Top Stuffing
• Katz
• Olivia’s Gluten Free Stuffing

Gluten Free Gravy 

• McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy (prepared)
• Simply Organic Turkey Flavored Gravy Mix
• Mayacamas Turkey Gravy Mix (Vegetarian)
• Full Flavor Foods Turkey Gravy Mix
• Primal Kitchen No Dairy Classic Turkey Gravy (prepared)
• Imagine Organic Roasted Turkey Flavored Gravy (prepared)

Gluten Free Mashed Potatoes

• Bob Evans Prepared Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Idahoan Potato Flakes (flakes do not contain dairy)
• Hungry Jack Mashed Potato Flakes (flakes do not contain dairy) no longer available
• Kevin’s Homestyle Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Simply Potatoes Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Reser’s Mashed Potatoes (Costco) (contains dairy)

Gluten Free Dinner Rolls

• Against the Grain Dinner Rolls (contains dairy & eggs)
• BFree Dinner Rolls (top 8 allergen free)
• Kinnikinnick (dairy, soy & nut free) (no longer in production)
• Udi’s Classic French Dinner Rolls
• Schar Ciabatta (dairy free)
• Canyon Bakehouse Brioche Rolls (dairy, soy & nut free)

Gluten Free Pie Crust

• Maine Pie Co. (contains eggs & dairy) (2 pk)
• MI Del Graham Cracker Crust (vegan) 
• MI Del Chocolate Snap Crust (vegan)
• Wholly Gluten Free (also vegan) (2 pk) 
• Kinnikinnick (egg, dairy, nut and soy free) (2 pk)
• Gluten Free Nation (at HEB, contains egg and dairy, may contain soy)

Premade Gluten Free Pies

• Michigan Gluten Free Baker List– Order from someone local!
• Maine Pie Co. (contains egg and dairy)
• Katz Personal Size Pies (dairy, soy & nut free)
• Raised Gluten Free (Vegan)
• Ethel’s Baking Company Pecan Dandies
• Daiya Pumpkin Cheezecake (Vegan)

Take Only What You Need

Unpopular opinion. Please don’t buy more gluten free Thanksgiving products than you need. Aldi’s and Trader Joe’s gluten free stuffing are seasonal. Please remember others want to try these products, too.

Some people use food stamps and only have resources at certain times of the month. Please be mindful of those in the Celiac Disease community who may be less fortunate. For more on this, read my friend Johnna’s post about Celiac Disease and having a Food Scarcity Mindset. 

Don’t Yuck Someone Else’s Yum

You may or may not like some of the products listed here. That’s ok. We all have different taste and texture preference, and dietary restrictions.

I try to live by the general rule of “eyes on your own plate.” What someone chooses to eat on Thanksgiving is up to them. Erica Dermer’s post about Food Superiority addresses this issue very well. 

What are your favorite Thanksgiving gluten free products to use? Leave me a note in the comments, so others can learn! 

**This post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through those links, or the Amazon search bar above, help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published October 2022

The post Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Thankful, but Anxious?

It’s that time of year. Time to start planning you gluten free Thanksgiving dinner! However, it’s also a time of anxiety for those of us who have diseases where certain foods are our enemy. I’ve already seen the anxious comments on message boards, people afraid their families will not understand about cross-contact, or have friends who say that “a little wheat” won’t hurt.

My favorite part of Thanksgiving is the idea that everyone comes to the table.  “Family” includes more than just those united by blood, but also those united by love. Some people (rightly) may still not feel safe eating at another person’s house due to dietary concerns. However, I wanted to share some options that can make things easier for those who are newly diagnosed with Celiac Disease, or those who care for them.

Here’s my list of ways to let everyone come to the table, from Appetizers to deZZert. (A-Z, get it?)

Gluten Free Thanksgiving Appetizers

These appetizers are not only easy, but they’re relatively healthy as well. Here are my top 3 ideas.

1) Hummus and vegetables – I LOVE hummus. Seriously, what’s not to love?! Full of fiber and heart healthy fats, it should be at every dinner party. While I usually make my own from scratch, it is okay to buy store bought if you’re under the gun. Sabra and Tribe brands are gluten-free, and most brands of hummus are naturally gluten-free.

(Sesame allergy? – Hummus is made with tahini, which is ground up sesame seeds. If you have a sesame allergy, I suggest trying to make your own hummus with unsweetened Sunbutter.)

2) Cheese and Crackers –  BYOC.
As someone with Celiac Disease, we always know to bring our own crackers. My favorite crackers are Schar Table and Entertainment crackers. However, make sure you keep cheese and gluten free crackers on a separate platter from wheat based crackers. If wheat based crackers are on the same plate as the cheese, the cheese is no longer safe for those Celiac Disease, because of the cracker crumbs.  

3) Chex Mix – Store Bought Contains Wheat
Chex has a PLETHORA of fun gluten-free Chex mix recipes on their website! I’m super intrigued by this Cranberry Orange Chex Party Mix. If nut allergies will also be present at the dinner table, you can try subbing pumpkin seeds.

The Old Bird

1) Turkey – On message boards every year, it’s the same question. “Which turkeys are gluten-free?” You’d think the answer would be “all of the above,” but not necessarily. Because turkeys can be injected with flavorings and marinated in brines, some are these birds are on the “No-fly list.”

Luckily, Butterball brand proudly proclaims their turket and gravy packets contain no gluten! Honeysuckle White whole turkeys are also GF, as are Jennie-O.  You can find even more brands of gluten free Turkeys on my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products post. 

2) Gravy– Truth- Homemade gravy is not that hard to make. Take the drippings from the bird, transfer them to apot, and cook it with a slurry made of cornstarch and water. (If you prefer using flour, I suggest  Bob’s Red Mill Rice Flour.)

But if the thought of making gravy from scratch leaves you feeling week in the wings, you can make Full Flavor Foods Turkey Gravy in just a few moments. This Michigan-Made product is made in a gluten-free, nut-free facility, and this particular gravy is dairy-free as well. Find more gluten free gravy options on my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products post.

3) Cranberries – When I was a kid, I abhorred cranberry sauce. I think it’s because I’ve only had it from a can. Homemade cranberry sauce is a cinch to make and just tastes better. If you prefer dishes that are refined sugar free, you’ll love this recipe from The Pioneer Woman. Just remember it’s made with REAL maple syrup, not pancake syrup.

The (Gluten Free) Side Show

1) Stuffing – That’s right, I’m putting Stuffing as a side. The quickest way to break a gluten free eater’s heart is to put regular stuffing inside the bird when you cook it. Not only is the stuffing off limits, but now the bird is too, because of cross-contact.

If you’re nervous about making stuffing from scratch, there are many companies that are coming to your gluten free Thanksgiving Day rescue. The big excitement this year is that Aldi has their own Chicken and Turkey boxed stuffing mixes. Just melt butter, add water and bring to a boil. I also like Aleia’s GF stuffing. For more gluten free stuffing brands, visit my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products article.

Looking for a homemade recipe? Try my gluten free Cornbread Stuffing, or this dairy free and gluten free stuffing from Meaningful Eats.

2) Green Bean Casserole – For so many years I thought I would never enjoy this dish again. But thankfully, there are stores and brands that offer gluten free french fried onions. Visit my post on Thanksgiving products to see which stores carry them. (Fresh Thyme has them.)

This dish would NOT be possible without Pacific Organic Cream of Mushroom Condensed Soup. It is the Holy Grail of cream soup. Now Campbell’s even has a gluten free version of their Cream of Mushroom soup. Just use your favorite recipe and sub the soup. Reminder- If your recipe calls for soy sauce, make sure that it is gluten-free!

3) Mashed Potatoes – Mashed potatoes were my first love after being diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I could eat them plain, drizzled with butter, and often covered in ketchup. (I know, my weirdness level is off the charts.)

The great thing is that mashed potatoes, unadulterated, are safely gluten free. I love to make mine from scratch, with bits of skin still on the potatoes, whipped with butter and plain Greek yogurt. A splash of milk for added creaminess, with dashes of salt, pepper & garlic powder. Have an Instant Pot? Use this mashed potato recipe from Wheat by the Wayside, this year.

This dish is pretty allergy friendly until you start adding dairy. For dairy free folks, I again suggest using Earth Balance buttery sticks. No one will know it’s not butter, trust me.

Our Daily Bread

Oh that awkward look when we say, “I can’t eat bread.” It’s like we’re speaking a foreign language or we must be from a different planet. And there’s the ever comforting comment, “Oh my, I’d die if I couldn’t eat bread.” Well lucky for us all, there are many delicious gluten-free bread varieties. Here are some suggestions that everyone will love.

1) Cornbread– While Jiffy mix cornbread is NOT gluten free, there are plenty of delicious and easy gluten free mixes out there on the market. I’ve long loved Bob’s Red Mill’s GF Cornbread Mix, but I’ve recently stared to enjoy Pamela’s Cornbread Mix. And cornbread muffins baked in liners are great for those with food allergies, because the liner provides another barrier of cross-contact from crumbs of muffins past.

But my favorite way to make cornbread is in my waffle maker. Seriously, folks it’s fast and easy and doesn’t take up room in your oven. The Pamela’s mix is much better for this. Remember, if you’re going to waffle your cornbread, it NEEDS to be done in a dedicated gluten free waffle maker. You have NO idea how stealthy gluten containing grains are and how much they love to hang out in your baking appliances.

Make my favorite easy gluten free cornbread, from Bette Hagman’s cookbook. Looking for a “corn free” version? Try Gluten Free Palate’s Paleo Cornbread this Thanksgiving.

2) Chebe – While this Brazilian Cheese bread is not a traditional flavor at a harvest feast, it is ridiculously easy to make and the mix is free of the most 9 common allergens. You can use this dinner roll recipe on their website, or just follow the basic recipe on the back of the box.

3) Homemade bread – My husband’s family traditionally eats homemade bread for basically every meal. A gluten-free Thanksgiving dinner should be no exception. Try My Gluten-Free Kitchen’s recipe for Pull Apart Dinner Rolls, or GF Jules Gluten Free Artisan Bread Recipe. Find brands that make gluten free rolls in my Thanksgiving Products post.

And NEVER make GF bread in a bread maker that’s been used for non-gf items. Just don’t. Ever.

Life’s Short, Eat Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dessert First

1) All Things Pie– If you are having someone over for dinner that has a food allergy, just a quick helpful note – we cannot just eat the pie filling and leave the crust. The cross-contact possibilities here are huge. Luckily, making pie with a gluten-free and allergen-free crust is really doable and, daresay, easy.

Not only does Chebe make great dinner rolls, you can use their all purpose mix to make a really easy-to-work with crust. A few years ago Chebe challenged me to make a pie with their crust. It took a few tries, but I’m proud to say that my recipe has received great reviews.

Once you have the recipe for the crust down, you can make a homemade pumpkin, pecan or apple pie in a snap. (All traditional versions of these fillings are gluten free, to the best of my knowledge. If a recipe calls for flour as a thickener, I again suggest Bob’s Red Mill Rice flour.)

And if regardless of food allergies, the idea of making a homemade pie crust terrifies you and keeps you up at night, Wholly Wholesome GLUTEN FREE pie crust is free of dairy, egg, soy and nuts. Find more premade gluten free pie crusts in my Thanksgiving Products post. 

Also, if you want to forego the crust, my family often makes the pumpkin pie filling by itself in a pie dish, and we call it pumpkin pudding. If you need a dairy free Pumpkin Pie, check out Minimalis Baker’s recipe for Vegan Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie.

More pie recipes –

30 Dairy Free & Gluten Free Pie Recipes from The Fit Cookie

40 + Gluten Free Holiday Pie Recipes from My Gluten-Free Kitchen

The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Gluten Free Pie from Fearless Dining

2) Pumpkin Roll– Years ago my friend Linda Fedewa introduced me to this marriage of pumpkin, cake and cream cheese. Pumpkin rolls are delicious and beautiful, and at first daunting. Trust me, if I can manage to pull this Small Batch Pumpkin Roll, so can you.

3) Cookies and ‘Cream– Regardless of the time of year, I’m always up for ice cream. A bowl of ice cream as part of a gluten free Thanksgiving meal is no exception. Pair with your favorite gluten free chocolate chip cookies, and the night is made. 

And if you’re dairy free, Coconut Bliss makes some of the best and most readily available dairy-free “ice cream.” If you can find it in yur area, Nada Moo is an excellent dairy free ice cream, as well.

Photo credit- foodsafetymagazine.com

Gluten Free Thanksgiving Pitfalls to Avoid!

1) Cross-contact is a VERY serious issue. It only takes a crumb of gluten to make someone with Celiac Disease sick, or a hint of an allergen to send someone to the hospital. Make sure to thoroughly clean pots and pans well. NEVER swap serving utensils during dinner, and don’t cook allergen free items in the same location as allergen containing foods. Have a separate butter dish for those with food allergies, as crumbs from non-gf breads will inevitably hitch a ride back to the dish.

2) Timing is everything. Make allergen free items before making allergen “full” items. Do your allergen free baking and food prep a full day before everything else. Gluten containing flours can remain free floating in the air for 24 hours or more.

3) Communication is key. Discuss your proposed menu with those with food allergies in advance (and not just the day before.) Fully disclose what you’re making and where allergens may be hiding. (Soy Sauce and Worcestershire Sauce are the sneakiest!)

Don’t hesitate to ask those with dietary restrictions to bring a dish to pass. We’re eager to help out and love to wow our friends and family with our allergen-free dishes! And in the end if someone chooses not to eat, don’t take it personally. We are the only ones that can truly safeguard our health.

The Reason for the Season

And on the flip side, my food allergy friends, remember that this time is about togetherness. Find ways to focus on those you’re with and not the foods you’re without. Plan ahead- eat beforehand if necessary or bring safe snacks with you. And remember to laugh and have fun. ‘Tis the Season.

And as I share in my 10 Tips for Surviving the Holidays, No is a complete answer.

Looking for more Thanksgiving ideas and recipes? Visit my friend Nicole, from Allergylicious, THE BEST Allergy-Friendly Thanksgiving Round-Up. Allergic Living wrote a post containing 50 Allergy Friendly Thanksgiving recipes free from gluten, and the top 9 allergens 

**Disclaimer- I am NOT paid in any way to mention the brands listed within this article. Chebe has sent me product to use from time to time, and many of these brands have been generous donors for our Celiac Disease camp or for the Food Allergy Bloggers Conference. I am in no way paid for any of these comments or views. **

Originally Published November 2015

The post How To Host A Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dinner appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How to Roast a Butternut Squash

I find it hard to believe I hated butternut squash as a child. I could now eat it every day. There’s a natural sweetness that doesn’t require extra sugar. It’s like nature’s candy, but loaded with vitamin A. My husband’s grandmother cooked hers with orange juice, but I don’t think it’s necessary.

For this recipe, choose a medium to large sized butternut squash. Cut the squash down the middle, and spray with a bit of cooking oil. This prevents it from burning. Sprinkle it with a bit of salt, for flavor. Roast in a 350 degree oven for up to 45 minutes. You want to make sure it’s fairly tender so it purees easily.

Taste Republic Gluten Free Fresh Lasagna Noodles

I originally created this gluten free butternut squash lasagna in 2016. At that time, these noodles were under the brand name “RP’s Pasta.” RP’s Pasta still exists, but now their gluten free line of fresh pasta goes by”Taste Republic.” Their non-gmo product line includes fettuccine (hello, Trader Joe’s), cheese filled tortelloni & new grain free pastas.

Each package of Taste Republic gluten free fresh lasagna contains 12 sheets. The sheets measure 6 1/2 inches long and 4 inches wide. Ingredients includes “brown rice flour, water, tapioca starch, potato starch, whole egg, egg white, xanthan gum, salt, and glucone-delta-lactone.” GDL is a “natural acidifier found in wine and honey.”

Best Tip For Making Lasagna Prep Easier

I read a tip online for making lasagna that was a game changer. Not sure where, so I can’t credit the genius. Layout your NO BOIL gluten free lasagna noodles on a flat surface. Then, portion your ricotta mixture evenly between the noodles, and spread it out. It makes it so much easier to build your lasagna.

Often people ask about dairy free or egg free options. The noodles contain eggs, and the ricotta mixture contains egg & dairy. Barilla makes no boil gluten free lasagne sheets which contain no eggs or dairy. They might work in this gluten free butternut squash lasagna, but I haven’t tried it. This Healthy Vegan Lasagna from Fit Foodie Nutter could work well with the Barilla noodles.

Assembling Your Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna

Before laying the first noodle in a loaf pan, coat the bottom of the pan with 1/4 cup of pureed butternut squash. The butternut squash is thinned with a chicken broth, which adds depth of flavor. I tend to keep my squash and meat mixture separate, but you could combine them after this step if you’d like.

Place on ricotta coated noodle on top of that first bit of sauce. Next I put a 1/2 cup of squash and 1/3 cup of the meat mixture. On top of that I add 1/3 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with the other two noodles. After baking it in the oven, it will look a bit soupy around the edges, but it will set up beautifully after 15 minutes.

Which Size Loaf Pan Should I Use?

This gluten free butternut squash lasagna evolved from a Lasagna for Two by Julie Yoon. I love watching her “how to” video on her website. I created this dish after first trying to use the Taste Republic lasagna noodles to make butternut squash ravioli. Yeah, that was an epic fail.

However, this lasagna tastes a million time better, IMO. I added finely chopped celery to the dish, as well as sage and thyme. Prepared with ground turkey, this lasagna tastes like Thanksgiving dinner, all in one pan. I first made this in a standard 9 x 5 pan. However, I found the 8 x 4 loaf pan I used for my buckwheat bread to work better.

Other Butternut Squash Recipes

Even though this gluten-free butternut squash lasagna is meant for two, we often cut it into three slices. This way my husband can have leftovers in his lunch the next day. Because it’s small, this is the perfect dish to take to a family Thanksgiving gathering. And no need to share. 😉

Looking to use up the rest of your squash? Try Eat At Our Table’s Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese. Your kids wont’ know they’re eating vegetables! This Gluten Free Butternut Squash Banana Bread from Minimalist Baker sounds amazing too! And if you bake with coconut flour, these Butternut Squash Pecan Muffins from Gourmande in the Kitchen look delicious.

Print

Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna for Two

Ingredients

For the meat mixture

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 onion finely chopped
• 1 rib celery finely chopped
• 1 tsp minced garlic 2 cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp sage
• 8 oz ground turkey
• 1/2 medium butternut squash roasted & pureed
• 3/4 c. chicken stock or broth

For the cheese filling

• 4 Taste Republic fresh gluten free lasagna noodles
• 1/2 c. ricotta cheese 4 oz
• 1/2 c. grated Parmesan
• 1 egg beaten
• 1/2 tsp dry parsley
• 1 1/3 c shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350. If you have not already, bake your butternut squash in the oven. Depending on the size of your squash, this should take 35-40 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool enough so you can handle it. 
• While the squash is cooking, prepare the ingredients for the meat mixture. In an iron skillet or dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp butter. To that, add onion and celery and saute until soft. This should take approximately 5 minutes. 
• To the pan, add the garlic, salt, sage and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds. 
• Finally, add the ground turkey and cook until the pink is almost gone. Try not to overcook it though, as turkey is very lean and we don't want it to dry out. If there's a touch of pink, it's okay, as we'll be baking this for almost an hour. When finished, turn off the skillet and remove from heat. Set aside.
• Next, mix the ingredients for the ricotta mixture. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, grated Parmesan, egg and dry parsley. Mix with a fork or spoon until thoroughly combined. 
• Wait to move on to the final steps until your butternut squash is completely roasted and cool enough to handle. When it's cool enough to handle, scoop out the roasted squash into a food processor. Puree. When mostly smooth, add the chicken stock and puree until completely smooth. When you're finished, you should have approximately 2 1/4 cups of squash puree. 
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, if it's not already on. 
• On a flat, clean surface, lay out 3 of the 4 lasagna noodles. Separate the filling between the 3 noodles, and spread it out over the noodles. 
• In the bottom of a 8×4 (or 9×5) loaf pan, spread out 1/4 cup of the pureed butternut squash. 
• Next, place one of the cheese lined noodles into the bottom of the pan. Top with 1/3 cup of the cooked meat, 1/2 cup of the pureed squash, and 1/3 c of mozzarella cheese. 
• Repeat twice, using the remaining cheese covered noodles. (You will have one plain noodle left.) 
• Place the remaining plain noodle on top, and gently press down to make sure the lasagna filling spreads out into the pan. 
• Top with the remaining meat, squash, and mozzarella cheese. 
• Spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray. Place the sprayed side on top of the final cheese layer, and crimp the edges of the aluminum around the pain to seal. (The spray prevents the cheese from sticking to the foil.) 
• Bake in a 350 degree preheated oven, covered, for 30 minutes. 
• After 30 minutes, remove foil from the pan and continue to cook for another 15 minutes. If you'd like your cheese on top to be toasty, place under the broiler for up to 2 minutes. 
• Allow lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the noodles to absorb any residual moisture. 
• **This recipe may work with Barilla gluten free lasagna noodles, but I have not tried it.

What creative ways do you use Thanksgiving leftovers? Have you created an amazing gluten-free dish after fixing a recipe mishap? Leave me a note below and we can learn from each other!

**In my first attempt in 2016, RP Pasta provided pasta for this post. I was not otherwise paid or compensated for my time. This post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

The post Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna for Two appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Holidays can be hectic for anyone. Throw in a dietary restriction and that adds another layer of complexity. We want to keep ourselves safe, but we also want the freedom to enjoy the holiday as normally as possible. That’s totally possible if we prepare ourselves, and others, with a few reminders, first. 

Start First with Open Communication

Communication is key in any relationship. This goes for gatherings with friends, family, and business colleagues. Especially if gatherings involve food. Ask about the menu ahead of time – and not just the morning of the event. Talk a week or so in advance.  If the gathering will be a restaurant, call and ask questions during their least busy time – from 2 to 4 pm. 

Are you hosting, and want to keep your household gluten free? People will always ask if they can bring something. Assign people to bring items that are naturally gluten free. Ask people to bring soft drinks or wine. Ask them to bring a vegetable, fruit or relish tray, and let them know you’ll take care of the dip. Paper plates, silverware and napkins are a great thing to let others bring, as well! 

Cross Contact is a Real Concern

Not preparing the meal yourself? You’ll have to ask how the food was prepared. Did they make gluten free baked goods on a separate day, to prevent airborne flour cross contact? Was gluten free pasta cooked in a fresh, clean pot of water? Strained in a dedicated colander? Were preparation utensils kept separate from gluten filled dishes? 

A reminder during Christmas time. All gluten free cookie dough should be prepared, rolled and cut with dedicated utensils. Gluten free cookies and cakes should be frosted with separate spreaders/knives. Turkeys and game hens should only be stuffed with gluten free stuffing. Beware that most scalloped potato dishes contain flour. 

Uncomfortable Eating? Say No Thanks.

This is an important gluten free holiday tip. People mean well, especially at the holidays. Have you ever heard “But I made this just for you!” Regardless, if you’re not comfortable eating something, it’s ok to say no. This is especially true if we don’t want to ask questions about food prep. 

Sometimes if it’s something being offered to me as a gift, and it’s wrapped, I’ll simply take it home and give it to my husband. He gets something special, and I keep my health in check. Want them to know where to get safe baked goods for you? Share my Michigan Gluten Free baker list, or Baltimore Gluten Free’s list of businesses that ship. 

No Explanation Required

Holiday gatherings can include longtime family and friends, as well as new faces. People may ask about your gluten free diet out of sheer curiosity. You can choose to explain, but please know you don’t have to. You can redirect the conversation onto a different topic. 

In addition, don’t worry about what others may think. Your physical and mental health is more important than one social gathering. Do your family members turn your gluten free diet into an issue? Sometimes boundaries have to be set. If they can’t kindly join with you, you may have to avoid getting together. You deserve to be respected. 

Beware MALT!

A reminder that barley malt is not one of the top 8 allergens. Therefore companies may not bring special attention to it on their labels. Remember that Kellogg Rice Krispies contain malt. In addition, candies with “crisped rice” likely contain gluten as well. (Such as Nestle Crunch.) Kellogg Corn Flakes contain malt as well. 

At Christmas time, a reminder that Lindt truffles contain barley malt as well. (Their white chocolate ones are gluten free.) In contrast, all Andes Mints are gluten free, including their candies with cookie crunch. Cello Chocolate Covered Cherries are made in a gluten and peanut free facility. 

Bring a Dish to Pass, and a Spoon

The best way to make sure you have “safe food” is to bring a dish to share. I recommend bringing a dish that contains protein, so you can have a “main course” item. Impress your friends and family by bringing a delicious gluten free dessert, as well. My Black Forest Trifle and my Gluten and Dairy Free Mocha Cake come to mind. 

Attending a potluck type of party? Ask the host if you can go first to avoid cross contact.  I also recommend bringing your own unique serving spoon, so others won’t be tempted to swap it to a different dish. A Facebook follower recommended “labeling dishes for anyone who may be have allergies. Such as ‘gluten free, nut free, contains dairy’ for example. I find labeling helps somewhat with cross contact.”

Practice That New Recipe, First

Planning on making a brand new recipe this holiday season? I highly recommend making a test batch prior to sharing with others. Especially if you’re making ANY ingredient substituions. (That includes a different GF flour blend than what the recipe creator used.) No one wants to plan a dish to bring that turns into a disaster. 

A Facebook follower also made this great point. “Don’t wait until the last minute to buy special ingredients, like gluten free flour!” Like Santa, check that ingredient list and check it twice. Make sure you’ve bought everything you need before the grocery stores before baking. (And before they close for the holidays!) 

One last “new recipe” gluten free holiday tip from a Facebook follower. “Whatever food you’re expecting to miss for the holidays, swap it out for something even more decadent with a similar flavor profile, and you won’t feel gipped at all. Can’t have your aunt’s brownies? Try flourless chocolate torte. Lemon bars? Make the shortbread crust with almond flour. Try rice stuffing with added onion, sausage, and chopped pecans.” 

Have a Backup (and Forward) Plan

Have you seen the following meme? “Living with Celiac Disease is like a Picnic. You literally bring your own food everywhere.” Those of us with food restrictions are known for our purses and bags full with ALL the snacks. Snack bars. Pre baked muffins. Our own slices of bread or buns. Prepare yourself with your own Celiac Safe stash. 

Another good gluten free holiday tip is to eat something before hand. This way you can focus more on the people around you than a grumbling stomach. I’ve been known to eat something filling at home, and then stop for gluten free French Fries after an event from Red Robin, Five Guys or Chick Fil A. 

Relax and Focus

The holiday season has become frantic and hectic, food or no food. Try to find ways to relax, destress, and simply focus on being with those you love. (And who love you in return!) As one of my Facebook followers said, “Don’t give food the power to steal your joy.”

Maybe instead of food gatherings, meet with friends and family for an activity. Have a girls day and get a massage. Go for a hike and end the day with a hot cocoa bar, like this one from Allergylicious. Gather friends (and funds) together and buy gifts for a non-profit and meet for coffee afterwards.  Giving to others always restores my joy and faith in humanity. 

Phone a Friend

Despite all of our preparation, things may still be less than perfect. I love the “Phone a Friend” suggestion from my friend Johnna’s 10 Tips for Softer Holidays post. “Designate a friend now that will agree to listen to you on the phone for 15 minutes while you decompress about the stress of your family gathering/work party/social function.” 

My Final Gluten Free Holiday Tip

This following was a comment left on my Facebook page. It was so good, I wanted to share it here. 

“There is no rule about eating holiday food only at the holidays. Keep yourself safe at events and consider having a separate day where you make your favorite dishes in a safe version. When we have an off weekend, I’ll make a scaled down version of the holiday meal. My family never complains and I end up with leftovers I can eat (and trust).”

“Also, asking a million questions makes me uncomfortable, so I’ll busy myself and eat what I can. I usually have a snack before and bring a dish I can eat, then focus on the veggie tray, etc.  Sometimes I’ll make a dish and a dessert, so I can be social over coffee at the end of the meal.”

If you’d like to see all the comments from my followers, or to add your own gluten free holiday tips, visit my Facebook Post.

Consider getting a monogrammed cutting board or spoon. Instead of placing your name on it, have them write “gluten free,” and they’ll be great to take to gatherings! Words with Boards makes amazing boards as well.

This post contains Amazon affiliate links. Purchases made through those links, or the Amazon search bar above, helps support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published December 2021

The post 10 Tips for a Gluten Free Holiday appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Perfect Dish for Holiday Leftovers

You could make this Mashed Potato Crust Quiche any time of the year. However, I find it most handy right after the holidays. I always make extra mashed potatoes, because they can be re-purposed in so many ways. After Thanksgiving or Christmas, there’s usually lots of turkey or ham left over. With your potatoes already mashed and your meat already cooked, throwing this quiche together is a snap!

How to Use Mashed Potatoes to Make A Crust

Of course, you can make this any time of the year. The mashed potato crust is easy to make. If you don’t have leftovers, just wash, cut and boil 3-4 potatoes. Once they’re fork tender, drain the water, mash and season to your preference. (I add butter and a bit of goat cheese to mine. Yum!)

Make sure the potatoes are cooled enough to work with, so you don’t burn your hands. Form the mashed potato crust into a pie pan and brush with oil. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes, just until it starts to get golden brown. Then take it out and bump the oven to 375.

What’s the Ratio of Egg to Milk to Make A Gluten Free Quiche?

I don’t make quiche often, so I researched a few different recipes to come up with the best filling. I found Gluten Free on a Shoestring had a handy ratio in her recipe, so I followed that. Her basic ratio is 1/4 cup of milk for every egg. I used half and half instead.

What Vegetables/ Meat Do You Add?

I used sauteed mushrooms, onions and spinach for my vegetables. Really, you can use anything you like! I added the last remaining bits of turkey breast I had leftover from my Thanksgiving dinner to my egg mixture. I poured all of that deliciousness (and cheese!) into my prebaked mashed potato crust and waited with baited breath.

Best Gluten Free Quiche I’ve Ever Tasted

It was more beautiful than I even imagined! After allowing it to cool and set up, it sliced beautifully and held up well. It was even better the second day! In truth, this is delicious hot or cold. You’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your breakfast rotation! Thanks to Nicole Hunn and Jessica Webster for your insight on this dish!

Other Uses for Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Looking for other uses for leftover mashed potatoes? Try this recipe for Gluten Free Potato Gnocchi from GF Jules. These savory Gluten Free Bacon Potato Pancakes from A Dash of Megnut sound delicious, too! And don’t miss my recipe for waffled stuffing! Check out this post from Eat at Our Table for more Gluten Free Thanksgiving Leftover recipes.

Recipe

Print

Gluten-Free Mashed Potato Crust Quiche

Equipment

• OXO Good Grips Glass Pie Plate with Lid
• ZWILLING Twin Signature 3-pc German Knife Set
• Dreamfarm Flisk | 3-In-1 Stainless Steel Whisk

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• oil

For the Filling

• 6 eggs whisked
• 1 1/2 cups half and half I used 3/4 cup of cream and 3/4 cup of lowfat milk
• Favorite vegetables sauteed as to release their extra water ( no more than 3 cups)
• Favorite cooked sausage / bacon optional (no more than 8 oz)
• 1 1/2 cups grated cheese

Instructions

• Form mashed potatoes evenly into pie crust. Brush lightly with oil. Bake crust at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until lightly browned. When finished, remove crust and turn oven to 375.
• While the mashed potato crust is browning, saute vegetables and cook meat. Set aside.
• Whisk eggs and half-and-half, adding salt and pepper to preference. Combine cooled vegetables, protein and cheese with egg mixture and pour into prepared mashed potato crust. Bake at 375 for 30-35 until set. Allow to cool 15 minutes or more before serving.

Have you ever made a Mashed Potato Crust Quiche before? What are your favorite quiche recipes? Leave me a note in the comments below!

**This post is not sponsored. However, it post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published November 2016

The post Gluten-Free Mashed Potato Crust Quiche appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Stuffing Flavor in a Pastry Crust

I think it’s safe to say that the signature dish of Thanksgiving is stuffing. So what if you made a “stuffing” pie crust, filled it with traditional Thanksgiving staples and baked it in the oven? Brilliant, am I right?! When these pasties come out of the oven, they truly smell and taste like Thanksgiving. You may have a hard time only eating one!

The basis for my Thanksgiving pasties starts with the Chebe focaccia mix. It already contains rosemary and basil in the mix. To make it taste like stuffing, I add a teaspoon each of sage and thyme. After making the dough, I tossed it in the fridge to chill while I chopped my other ingredients.

Raw vs Pre Cooked Meat

The first time I made these Thanksgiving pasties, I started with cooked deli turkey. Let me tell ya, it didn’t cut it. Too dry. Even with the addition of goat and brie cheeses, it needed more moisture. This time I used Butterball turkey breast instead. 

The juices it released as it cooked helped to keep the pasty incredibly moist. As for the remaining ingredients, I went by an old hand-written recipe card from my husband’s grandfather. (The same one that gave me the recipe for that most amazing buckwheat bread.) Seeing his penmanship, so neatly done, brings warmth to my heart. Even though Papa Earle passed years ago, he can still be part of our holiday traditions.

What’s Inside a Thanksgiving Pasty?

To fill these Thanksgiving pasties, you mix all the meat and vegetables together in a large bowl. The one thing that makes these pasties stand out is the addition of cranberry sauce. Because one can’t have Thanksgiving with cranberries, am I right?

I’m not usually a fan of the canned stuff. I much prefer it made from scratch, like in this Cranberry Orange Sauce recipe from Texanerin. However, in this recipe canned cranberries will work just fine. When filling your Thanksgiving pasties, use 1/2 cup of filling, and place it on the front half of the dough. This allows you room to fold the top half over and seal the pasty.

Gravy or no Gravy?

These Thanksgiving pasties are so amazing, friends. Seriously, pictures and words can not do this justice. I literally ate this top half after taking pictures. It’s taking all the willpower I have to not go devour the second half. It pairs perfectly with Full Flavor Foods Turkey Gravy.

Thanksgiving Pasty Recipes That Use Leftovers

Now, if you’d rather not do all the chopping and cutting, there are recipes on the internet for using Thanksgiving leftovers in a pasty. This recipe for homemade Thanksgiving pasties from 12 Tomatoes uses leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes and turkey inside. I haven’t tried it, but if you decide to do so, let me know!

(And if you want an amazing way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, check out my gluten-free mashed potato crust quiche recipe!)

Can I Use A Different Crust Mix than Chebe?

You could likely use a gluten free pie crust recipe for the crust. Chebe already contains basil and rosemary in their mix. If you plan to use a homemade crust, you will need to add those herbs on your own. Maybe 1/2 tsp to a tsp each?

Print

Grain Free Thanksgiving Pasties

Author Margaret Clegg

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 pkg Chebe Focaccia mix
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp thyme
• 4 tbsp cold butter cut in small pieces
• 2 eggs room temp
• 2 tbsp oil
• 4 tbsp ice cold water
• rice flour or grain-free starch for rolling

Filling

• 1/4 c. Brussels sprouts shredded
• 1/4 c onions diced
• 1/2 c. sweet potatoes diced
• 1/2 c. mushrooms diced
• 1/3 c. canned whole cranberry sauce
• 1/2 lb raw turkey breast diced
• 1 egg beaten

Instructions

• Add thyme and sage to Chebe mix. Next, add butter and cut it into the dry mix. This can be done in a food processor or with your hands. 
• Second, add eggs and oil to mix and stir to combine. 
• To finish making the dough, add the ice cold water, one tablespoon at a time until a solid ball forms. 
• Place dough in refrigerator to chill while you prep remaining ingredients. 
• Start prepping the filing by dicing the vegetables. I used my food processor to shred the sprouts. Chop the onion, sweet potatoes and mushrooms into 1/2 in" chunks. 
• Finally, chop your turkey meat. Ground turkey can also be used for this. Once your meat is chopped, combine it with the vegetables and cranberry sauce in a large bowl
• Remove dough from refrigerator and preheat oven to 350 degrees. 
• Light coat a flat surface (I use a pastry mat) with rice flour. (You can use potato starch if you need to keep it grain free.) Separate the dough ball into 4 equal portions. Roll one of the four small dough balls into a circle, roughly 7 in" in diameter. Repeat with remaining dough until all our portions have been rolled. 
• Using a 1/2 c. measuring cup, fill one half of a dough circle with the turkey and vegetable mixture. Place the filling near the the front half of the circle, allowing room to fold up the back half to close the pasty. (See the third picture in this post as an example.) Crimp closed and brush with beaten egg. 
• Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. 
• Serve hot, with turkey gravy if desired. (I use Full Flavor Foods gravy mix.) 

So what creative things have you made with Chebe products? Do you have something you’d like to see me create? Leave me a comment below and let me know how Chebe has impacted your baking!

**Chebe provided the ingredients for this post. I was not otherwise paid or compensated for my time. This post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published November 2017

The post Grain Free Thanksgiving Pasties appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How to “Halve” an Egg

Every recipe I see for a pumpkin roll recipe, it calls for a large sheet pan. However, I prefer small batch recipes. One, smaller pans fit better in my little kitchen. In addition, smaller portions fit better into my diet. 🙂 Therefore, I reduced a regular recipe to fit in my quarter sheet pan. (It works great for a gluten free pumpkin slab pie, too!)

Most regular recipes call for 3 eggs. How does one “halve” an egg? Many people say to whisk the egg, and divide it in half. However, the base for this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll is a thin sponge cake. Since sponge cakes generally have a light texture, I used one egg and one egg white. This provides the binding we need, while still being whipped to create lift.  Check out this article from The Kitchn for other ways to halve an egg.

Pan Size and Shape is Important

For this gluten free pumpkin cake roll, I use my favorite quarter sheet pans. Many utilize a jelly roll pan, which has different dimensions than a quarter sheet pan. Many bakers use a 10 x 15 jelly roll pan. However I prefer these quarter sheet pans, which measure approx. 9 in by 13 in. (Half sheet pans are 18 in x 13 in.) A sheet pan has straight edges, which is preferable to a 9 x 13 cake pan. However, if you don’t have a quarter sheet pan, you may be able to use a cake pan.

How to Shape A Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

The sponge cake for this cake roll bakes quickly. No more than 15 minutes. The beauty of a cake roll lies in the swirl. To achieve this, one must roll the cake in a towel while it is still warm. This allows it to cool in our preferred shape. Another important step is to generously coat the towel in powdered sugar, prior to rolling.

A few tips on choosing a towel for rolling. One, choose a towel you don’t mind getting stained. Most assuredly, there will be some orange tinting when it’s done. In addition, many suggest using a linen towel because it is absorbent. I bought flour sacks cloths from Bed Bath and Beyond for this. I advise against using cotton towels with fibers that could get stuck in the cake or leave an imprint in the cake.

What if My Pumpkin Cake Roll Cracks?

Now we wait. Some people recommend allowing the cake to cool for at least an hour. I allowed mine to cool overnight, as I was busy. If you plan to make this the same day you plan to serve it, make sure to start 4-5 hours before you plan to serve it. This allows time for baking, cooling, filling, and chilling.

Part of the goal in rolling the cake while still warm is to prevent cracks. Sometimes, cracks are inevitable. Remember I said you need to dust the towel with powdered sugar? I dusted mine a lot, which left a beautiful dusting on the outside of the gluten free pumpkin roll. Cracks? What cracks? They’re all hidden in powdered sugar! (If you really wanted to go above and beyond, you could coat the outside of the cake in more frosting.)

My Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes

I adapted the recipe for this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll from my friend Linda Fedewa, and her Bake it Best cookbook. (I share how to order one in my jam-filled hand pie recipe.) She tints her cream cheese filling with just a touch of nutmeg. Let me tell you, it tastes like perfection! If you don’t feel confident in making this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll for yourself, Rumi’s Passion and No More Belly Aching sell them this time of year.

If this is your first gluten free Thanksgiving, you may want to consult my post on A-Z tips for a successful holiday. Missing stuffing? I can eat my favorite gluten free cornbread stuffing any time of year! And save room for leftovers! My favorite use for leftover mashed potatoes is this grain free quiche. Perfect to make ahead and have for breakfast before Black Friday Shopping!

Other Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes You May Find Helpful

Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner for Two from Imagelicious (Sub GF croutons)

20 Gluten Free Thanksgiving Appetizers and Side Dishes from Iowa Girl Eats

30 Recipes for a Gluten Free Thanksgiving from A Dash of Megnut

40 Vegan and Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes from The Pretty Bee

Print

Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

Equipment

• Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour, 3 Pounds
• Nordic Ware Quarter Sheet, Natural, 2 count (Pack of 1)
• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Matte Black

Ingredients

For the cake

• 1 egg and 1 egg white
• 1/2 c granulated sugar
• 1/2 c pumpkin puree not pie filling
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• 6 tbsp gluten free flour I used Cup for Cup
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• pinch of nutmeg

For the Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 3 tbsp butter room temperature
• 1/2 c powdered sugar sifted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• pinch of nutmeg
• *additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line quarter sheet pan with parchment paper, making sure paper extends over the side. This makes it easier to lift the cake from the pan, when finished.
• In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder and spices. Set aside. 
• In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine egg, egg white, and sugar. Mix on high for 5 minutes. This may seem like a long time, but we want the eggs to be aerated to help make a lighter cake. It should be a pale yellow color. 
• Whisk in the pumpkin and lemon juice.
• After egg and pumpkin mixture is whipped, turn off mixer and fold the dry ingredients into the egg and sugar mixture. Folding in the flour prevents deflating the eggs we just whipped. This may take a few minutes to incorporate all the flour. 
• Spread batter into lined quarter sheet pan and bake for 15 minutes. 
• While cake is baking, heavily dust a tea towel with powdered sugar. Make sure the towel you choose is larger than the cake pan. 
• Once cake is done baking, remove from oven and allow to set for 2-3 minutes. No longer than that. Then, invert onto dusted tea towel. Gently pull up parchment paper from the cake, and dust bottom of cake with powdered sugar. 
• Beginning at the short end of the cake, roll the cake with the towel inside it. The towel prevents the cake from sticking to itself, and the powdered sugar prevents the cake from sticking to the towel. 
• Allow the cake to cool for one hour or longer. Meanwhile, set out cream cheese and butter, so they will be at room temperature when you are ready to fill the pumpkin roll. 
• After cake has cooled, prepare the frosting. Start by whipping the room temperature cream cheese and butter at least 2 minutes. We want it to be creamy. Then, add vanilla and nutmeg. Finally, slowly add sifted powdered sugar. (Make sure it is sifted, or you'll have clumps in your frosting.) 
• Gently unroll cooled cake and spread frosting the length of the cake. 
• Once filled, gently reroll cake. (No towel inside this time!) Roll the filled cake starting with the same side you rolled for cooling the cake. 
• Place the rolled cake in the fridge and allow to chill 2-3 hours prior to serving. 
• Dust with additional powdered sugar, if desired.

Originally Published October 25, 2019

The post Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Dinnertime Gluten Free Fall Recipes

No dessert until you eat your dinner, right? Here are 5 gluten recipes that automatically make me think of fall!

Cozy Comfort Chili

In my opinion, fall stands as the PERFECT time for chili. Between football and falling leaves, there’s nothing better than a bowl of chili. This Cozy Comfort Chili contains only 400 calories per serving!

Chicken Apple Sausage with Cabbage

What makes me add this dish to my list of favorite gluten free fall recipes? Apple cider. The addition of this sweet yet flavorful liquid makes this Chicken Apple Sausage with Cabbage a dish to “fall” in love with!

Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna for Two

 Squash. While I hated it as a kid, when fall comes I can’t get enough of it. This Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna may become on of your new favorite gluten free fall recipes. It surely is mine!

Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats

Speaking of squash, if you haven’t eaten spaghetti squash, you’re missing out. Now, it doesn’t taste exactly like spaghetti, but it does taste delicious! Try these Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Boats, and you’ll like, you’ll see!

Gluten Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi

True, you can eat this Gluten Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi anytime of the year. While technically a side and not a dinner unto itself, this dish will compliment any turkey, game hen or roast chicken. To really give it an autumnal flare, replace the sweet potato with pumpkin!

Apple Based Gluten Free Fall Recipes

When it comes to gluten free fall recipes, two ingredients shine. Apples and Pumpkins. If you find yourself more on the “Team Apple” side, these 5 recipes are right up your alley!

Grain Free Apple Pie

After my Celiac Disease diagnosis, gluten free pie crust truly stood as my nemesis. That all stands behind me now! With Chebe by my side, I can now enjoy Grain Free Apple Pie among all my other favorite gluten free fall recipes! Looking for something smaller? Check out my Gluten Free Apple Dumplings.

Gluten Free Apple Crisp

The crisp fall air makes a Gluten Free Apple Crisp a necessity! This oat free dessert is big enough for two, but I won’t say anything if you keep this deliciousness to yoursefl.

Gluten Free Applesauce Bundt Cake

 Prefer your cake with a drizzle of glaze or frosting? This Mini Gluten Free Applesauce Bundt Cake contains chunks of apples, applesauce, and a glaze made with apple cider. If your favorite gluten free fall recipes involve apples, you’ll love this one! Also check out my Gluten Free French Apple Cake.

Gluten Free Mini Apple Cheesecakes

I love “mini” recipes. They help with portion control and are useful for parties. These Gluten Free Mini Apple Cheesecakes use the Chebe cinnamon roll mix in a brand new creative way. Leftover cheesecakes freeze well too! (If they last that long!)

Gluten Free Apple Pie *Buttermilk* Pancakes

Life’s short, eat desert first. Therefore, these Gluten Free Apple Pie *Buttermilk* pancakes should be on your next brunch menu. They don’t contain regular buttermilk, because who always has that on hand? Not me! Read the recipe and find my trick for an alternative to buttermilk in your gluten free fall recipes!

Pumpkin Based Gluten Free Fall Recipes

Fall is synonymous with all things pumpkin. These five recipes will have you eager to meet The Great Pumpkin!

Grain Free Pumpkin Slab Pie

It’s hip to be square. Or rectangular as the case may be. This grain free Pumpkin Slab Pie, made with Chebe Bread’s Cinnamon Roll Mix, is a dessert that everyone will be thankful for!

Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

 I love small batch recipes. All the flavors I crave with fewer leftovers. This Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll was a hit with my family for the holidays. I hope your family enjoys it, too!

Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread Pudding

 Ever have a recipe flop? Turn that flop into something creative and memorable! Use your favorite pumpkin bread recipe (like the one above) to make this delicious Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread Pudding. Don’t forget the chocolate chips!

Gluten Free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles

Out of all my gluten free fall recipes, I feel that this is my favorite. One, because these Gluten Free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles tastes amazing. Second, because I share a personal story that explains why we live in Flint, and the love we have for our city, even in dark times.

Two Ingredient Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts

 These are the easiest donuts you will ever make. If we’re honest, the best gluten free fall recipes are always the ones that are the  easiest. Why? Because our time should be spent making memories, not forever in the kitchen. Make these Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts part of your family fall tradition!

Halloween and Thanksgiving Gluten Free Fall Recipes

Gluten Free Halloween Cut Out Cookies

Don’t let making cut out cookies “spook” you. These Gluten Free Halloween Cut Out Cookies roll out and cut easily, using GF Jules cookie mix! Let the little ghosts and goblins in your family help you!

Gluten Free White Chocolate Candy Corn Cookies

Question. Do you love candy corn? If you do, these Gluten Free White Chocolate Candy Corn Cookies need to be on your “to bake” list. Everyone at the next Halloween party will say they’re “bootiful”!

Grain Free Thanksgiving Pasties

Not familiar with pasties? (Pronounced “Past-Ease”) Imagine calzones, but filled with meat and potatoes instead. In Michigan, they a tradition. I created these Gluten Free Thanksgiving Pasties with a “stuffing” flavored crust.

Gluten Free Cornbread Stuffing

 While the picture may need some work, gluten free fall recipes stand incomplete without stuffing. This Gluten Free Cornbread Stuffing shines with homemade cornbread and sweet cranberries. Have lots of leftovers? Turn that stuffing into waffled deliciousness, and make a sandwich with it!

Gluten Free Thanksgiving from A to Z

Speaking of Thanksgiving, while gluten free fall recipes are important, proper preparation is paramount. Check out my Thanksgiving post with tips on what to make, how to make it, and tips to give to family members on preventing cross contact.

This season provides so many wonderful tastes and aromas. Looking for more gluten free fall recipes? Still looking for more recipes to cure your pumpkin craving? Check out this round up from Food Faith Fitness of over 90 Healthy Gluten Free Pumpkin Recipes!  And don’t miss these Gluten Free Apple Turnovers from Gluten Free Palate, using Schar’s new Gluten Free Puff Pastry! Let’s get this autumnal party started!

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