Great Information at Gluten-free Workshop

Did you know that body lotion can contain gluten? That’s one of many interesting facts I learned at the “Learn to live gluten free” workshop at Novant Health Franklin Medical Center in Louisburg, N.C.

Some people have celiac disease which causes an immune response to gluten, and breaks down the microvilli in their stomach lining. If you have stomach discomfort and suspect you could have celiac disease, it is best to be tested before eliminating gluten. The tests are unreliable once gluten has been removed from your diet. It is estimated that 97% of Americans with celiac disease are not diagnosed.

Gluten is found in a class of grains that includes wheat, barley, and rye. Grains like oats are often contaminated with the gluten protein during processing so they need to be avoided as well.

Less obvious gluten sources found on ingredient labels are malt, modified food starch (unless corn is specified), caramel coloring (soft drinks), and citric acid (the imports have gluten). When “natural flavor” is listed, gluten cannot be ruled out.

Some lesser known gluten-containing foods are taco seasoning mix, coated French fries, couscous, and turkey (some are basted with gluten containing solution).

Fruits and vegetables are good sources of gluten-free nutrition. I have previous posts with gluten-free peach cobbler and eggplant recipes.

Interesting gluten-free websites:

www.glutenfreely.com

www.gluten.net

http://www.celiac.org/

Thanks to the organizers and presenters of the gluten free workshop: Julie Kephart, Lori Peele MD, Sasha Dunbar, and Susan White. Thanks also to Chef Bobby for preparing the delicious gluten free luncheon.

Russeting of Tomatoes

About 10% of my tomatoes have hard, brown patches on the surface. This is called russeting, and is caused by a number of factors. It is a well-known problem with greenhouse-grown tomatoes.

An expert has told me there are many factors that can cause russeting. I've been unable to find a list, but will update the post when more information is available.

In the meantime, know that if you have tomatoes that look like this,the problem can be identified as russeting.

Gluten Free Eggplant with Garlic Sauce (Includes Video)

Eggplant

This is a delicious way to prepare eggplant. We grow our own, and eggplant prepared this way can be frozen and eaten later.

Ingredients:

Olive oil
about 8 small eggplants
2/3 cup gluten-free soy sauce
2-3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons minced garlic

Directions:

Peel eggplant and cube. 

Diced Eggplant

Cover bottom of large non-stick saucepan with olive oil.

Use medium heat to warm oil. When test piece of eggplant starts cooking, add the diced eggplant.

Sprinkle with salt and cover. Stir frequently. If pan seems dry, add more olive oil.

When eggplant becomes soft, add soy sauce and sugar.

Stir and continue cooking. Leave lid off now to reduce the sauce. Add minced garlic to taste.

This is delicious served with rice or by itself. You can garnish with sesame seeds or green onions.

Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Below is an 8 minute video demonstrating this recipe. Enjoy!