Home-cooking/baking

Made some brownies tonight with the  Betty Crocker Gluten-Free Mix.  It was my first time having Betty Crocker GF products, and I must say,  they were only so-so.  The texture was pretty good, but the brownies themselves were a bit bitter and had an aftertaste.  Nothing a little coffee ice cream couldn't fix, though! Unfortunately, I think I ate a bit too many, especially since I'm still healing from my slip-up the other day. . .

On another note, I've recently learned that La Choy soy sauce is gluten free!  How did I not know this?!  Although it may not be the best tasting soy sauce around, it's a nice compromise for gluten-eating friends who may be hesitant to purchase or use [the more-expensive] gluten free tamaris. So far I've eaten grilled vegetable kabobs and tofu stir fry that used this product, and I did not get sick either time.

This is a great segway into introducing a new feature soon to be on this blog: Gluten-free recipes from guest bloggers!  The dishes will appeal to the novice g-free chef, meaning minimal or common ingredients and uncomplicated preparation/cooking instructions.  Stay tuned for more info!

Ow.

The other day I got glutened.  It was totally my fault; I took a chance with something that I was almost certain had been cross-contaminated. 

Sometimes, I can't tell whether I've acccidentally ingested my enemy or just feel ill/off due to something else, like being over-stuffed or eating to much creamy goodness.  But it's times like this last one that remind me: I have Celiac Disease and it can--will--negatively impact my health and my life if I'm not careful.

People ask me what it feels like, being 'glutened'.  Well, it's different for everyone, and often a different reaction within myself.  A tell-tale sign for me, though, is like someone is raking over the inside of my intestines.  Like someone is poking them from the inside out. And I'm hungry, but thought of eating anything makes me feel nauseated.  Not that I wouldn't already feel nauseated.  The other consistent reaction I feel is fatigue; combined with the insomnia from not feeling well, it's always a great night!

Back (and eating) in Baltimore!

I was going to update with one large post, but realize I am more likely to update if I don't worry about synthesizing several experiences or sticking to time-order.

I recently began an internship, and my preceptor kindly took me out for lunch in nearby Lauraville to Red Canoe Bookstore Café.  Well I was mighty surprised to find out they have gluten-free bread (Udi's) for their sandwiches!  However, the person taking my order said they keep the gf bread frozen, and therefore must toast it.  As you can imagine, my excitement over a gf sandwich quickly drained...

But wait!

I explained [in layman's terms] that such cross-contamination would be a problem for people with Celiac Disease.  He suggested they could use the panini press, and I accepted...as long as they cleaned it off first! I happily got a 1/2 sandwich--a 'panini' with roasted turkey, cheese, and tomato--and a cup of Gazpacho.  The sandwich in particular was fabulous!  Their black bean soup and the caramels they sell are also GF.

Just a reminder:  If you choose to get a sandwich at Red Canoe, please clearly state that you need it made on the panini press--not the toaster--and nicely ask them to clean it off first.

Anywho, I'm off to dinner at Meet27!  Which, btw, I heard is now BYOB.  I'll let you know when I come back!