Is this gluten free?

A few years back, I went for a walk in Spring Lake with my sons and we stopped at a sub shop to buy lunch. Of course, the boys had no trouble buying lunch, other than to choose what to add on top of their chicken cutlets in their soft, freshly baked sub roll! The shop did sell something called 'sub in a tub' and I very happily asked for a turkey sub with lettuce and tomato, but in a tub (plastic container, no bread). I was thrilled that this was an option and I did not have to awkwardly ask for my ingredients without a roll. We stopped at a picnic table near the lake to eat our 'sandwiches' and chips. It did not take long for me to feel horrible, despite the fact that I was in the prettiest setting, enjoying the nicest weather, and with the best company. The stomach cramps, the bloating and the urge to find a bathroom took over. The culprit this time turned out to be gluten used as a flavoring in the sliced turkey breast!

     After doing a bit of research, I found that 'Boar's Head' brand cold cuts is one of the few gluten free brands to buy. They do not use gluten in their cold cuts, yet many brands do for some reason. Most of these things come through trial and error and it is unfortunate that we have to suffer first to figure it out. Ordering from a restaurant will be difficult at first and you will soon figure out what works best for you. I gravitate towards grilled dishes or salads. Chicken cutlets are often dredged in flour before pan seared in many Italian restaurants, so I usually ask for grilled chicken to be substituted in the dish. Most places are happy to accommodate. 

     At the supermarket, read all labels. Gluten or wheat is a hidden ingredient in the strangest processed products, such as flavorings and soups. It does not always stand out as a product not to buy. Of course the safest thing always would be to shop your foods around the perimeter of the supermarket, such as fresh, un-marinated meats, chicken and fish, or whole fruits and vegetables. If you venture into the middle aisles, read every box or bag. These days, products that are gluten free are often labelled clearly on the front because of the popularity of the diet. 

Grains can be confusing. Eating gluten free does not mean going without delicious grains. Here is a list of the ones I have discovered are good use.

• Rice
• Wild Rice
• Corn
• Quinoa
• Millet
• Sorghum
• Oats (must be labeled on the package as GF)
• Buckwheat (Kasha) even though it sounds like wheat

Stay away from barley, rye, and all varieties of wheat such as whole wheat, semolina, faro, durum, spelt and bulgur. This does not mean doing without delicious side dishes with your meals. A blend of different gluten free flours makes delicious doughs and pie crusts. Potatoes, corn, rice and quinoa (my new favorite) are all wonderful side dishes to round out your next dinner plate.