Chemist.net Cookie Policy : We use cookies to enhance your user experience. To find out more please view our cookie policy
Gluten Free Guide
Your Expert Gluten Free Guide
Gluten-free food options have been around for some time now. It's becoming more and more main stream and the options you have now to purchase gluten free bread is broad. In this master guide, we talk all things gluten free bread, from what's in it, to how to make it, and what's available to purchase.
Let's get stuck in :)
This article covers the following contents
- What is gluten?
- Does all bread contain gluten?
- What is gluten free bread?
- Grains that contain gluten
- Different types of gluten free bread available to purchase
- How to make gluten free bread
- Purchasing Gluten free bread from Chemist.net
What is gluten?
Gluten: the sticky protein that binds dough together
Gluten is a type of protein found in certain grains that helps bind dough together, giving bread its texture and extending its shelf life.
Does all bread contain gluten?
Gluten in bread: why it's there and how to avoid it
Most traditional baking methods rely on gluten to give bread its characteristic texture, making it present in most bread products such as bread, rolls, pizza bases, and others. However, food experts are coming up with innovative ways to eliminate gluten from our favourite foods without sacrificing their taste and texture, resulting in an increasing number of gluten-free bread alternatives available in stores.
Shop Gluten Free Foods
What is gluten-free bread, and how is it different from regular bread?
This might sound quite obvious. But....gluten-free bread is a type of bread that does not contain any gluten :) Yes, we know. But it still is important to clarify this.
Most bread and baked goods use flour from gluten-containing grains, gluten-free bread uses ingredients that are free from gluten. These ingredients can include flour from gluten-free grains such as quinoa, brown rice, buckwheat, and sorghum. By using these alternative flours, gluten-free bread can still offer a pleasant texture and taste, without the negative effects that gluten can have on people who are intolerant or allergic to it.
If you have a gluten intolerance or allergy, or simply want to avoid gluten for personal reasons, gluten-free bread can be a delicious and healthy alternative to regular bread.
A comprehensive list of Gluten Free Grains
Here is a list of gluten-free grains that can be used to make gluten-free bread, pastries, and other baked goods:
- Quinoa - Quinoa is a gluten-free, protein-rich grain that is a good source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals
- Rice - Rice is a staple food in many cultures and is a gluten-free grain that can be used in many different dishes, including desserts.
- Corn - Corn is a gluten-free grain that is often used to make gluten-free flour, which can be used to make bread, tortillas, and other baked goods.
- Buckwheat - Buckwheat is a gluten-free grain that is often used to make gluten-free pancakes, waffles, and bread.
- Sorghum - Sorghum is a gluten-free grain that is often used in gluten-free bread, as well as in porridges, stews, and other dishes.
- Millet - Millet is a gluten-free grain that is often used to make gluten-free flour, which can be used to make bread, cakes, and other baked goods.
- Teff - Teff is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein, fibre, and vitamins. It is often used to make gluten-free bread, porridges, and pancakes.
- Amaranth - Amaranth is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein, fibre, and minerals. It can be used to make gluten-free flour and can be added to soups, stews, and salads.
- Oats - Oats are a gluten-free grain, but they are often processed in facilities that also process wheat, which can lead to cross-contamination. For this reason, it is important to look for certified gluten-free oats.
- Wild Rice - Wild rice is a gluten-free grain that is often used in salads, casseroles, and soups. It has a nutty flavour and is high in protein and fibre. By using these gluten-free grains, people who are sensitive or allergic to gluten can enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious foods without the negative effects of gluten.
Shop Gluten Free Foods
Different Types of Gluten Free Bread
Here are seven popular types of gluten-free bread:
- Sourdough: Gluten-free sourdough bread is made with a combination of gluten-free flours, water, and a sourdough starter. It has a tangy flavour and a dense, chewy texture.
- White Bread: Gluten-free white bread is typically made with a combination of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour, cornstarch, and tapioca flour. It has a soft texture and a mild flavour.
- Whole Grain Bread: Gluten-free whole grain bread is made with a combination of gluten-free flours, such as brown rice flour, sorghum flour, and quinoa flour. It has a dense texture and a nutty flavour.
- Multigrain Bread: Gluten-free multigrain bread is made with a combination of gluten-free flours, as well as seeds and grains, such as chia seeds, flax seeds, and millet. It has a crunchy texture and a hearty flavour.
- Rye Bread: Gluten-free rye bread is typically made with a combination of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour, cornstarch, and potato starch, as well as gluten-free rye flavouring. It has a dense texture and a strong, earthy flavour.
- Cinnamon Raisin Bread: Gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread is made with a combination of gluten-free flours, as well as cinnamon and raisins. It has a sweet flavour and a soft, moist texture.
- Focaccia Bread: Gluten-free focaccia bread is typically made with a combination of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour and potato starch, as well as herbs and spices, such as rosemary and garlic. It has a soft, chewy texture and a savoury flavour.
Shop Gluten Free Foods
How to make Gluten Free Bread
Here are four gluten-free bread recipes along with links to articles with the full recipes:
- Gluten-Free Artisan Flatbread: This recipe uses combines Glutafin Select Gluten-Free Fibre Bread Mix with black onion seeds and mixed herbs to create delicious rustic artisan bread. Recipe from Glutafin: https://www.glutafin.co.uk/gluten-free-recipes/lunch/gluten-free-artisan-flatbread/
- Gluten-Free Cinnamon & Raisin Bagels: This recipe uses Glutafin Gluten Free Select Multipurpose White Mix to create a mouth-watering cinnamon and raisin bagel, perfect for a sweet snack or toasted as part of a delicious breakfast! Recipe from Glutafin: https://www.glutafin.co.uk/gluten-free-recipes/breakfast-brunch/gluten-free-cinnamon-and-raisin-bagels/
- Gluten-Free Naan Bread: This recipe uses Juvela Gluten-Free White Mix with poppy/coriander/cumin seeds to create a gluten free accompaniment to your favourite curry! Recipe from Juvela: https://www.juvela.co.uk/gluten-free-recipes/naan-bread/
- Gluten-Free Tiger Rolls: This recipe uses Juvela Gluten-Free Fibre Mix to create a tasty gluten free version of tiger rolls with that distinctive and delicious crackled crust - perfect for dunking, as sandwiches, or simply spread with butter straight from the oven. Recipe from Juvela: https://www.juvela.co.uk/gluten-free-recipes/tiger-rolls/
How Chemist.net can support you with our Gluten Free Guide
Chemist.net are here to support your gluten-free diet and provide you with an expert gluten-free guide and various food options. Be sure to check out our Gluten Free range and call us if you need any help in deciding which products to buy.
Shop Gluten Free Foods
This blog post was written on behalf of Chemist.net by Pharmacy Mentor.