When making gluten-free casseroles, it is important to keep in mind that gluten sensitivities in some people are so severe that contact of even trace amounts of gluten can trigger negative symptoms and health problems. As a result, it is important to review every ingredient that goes into a casserole so as to prevent inadvertent gluten consumption. It is also a good idea to use recipes for gluten-free casseroles from reliable sources and to ensure that ingredients are of high quality.
Casseroles are popular, easy-to-make dishes that are typically composed of several different ingredients all combined together in one dish. For individuals who have celiac disease, or a gluten intolerance, casseroles can present a challenge, because it may be difficult for a sufferer or his caretaker to identify every ingredient used in their preparation. When preparing gluten-free casseroles, it is often a good idea to communicate the fact that it is gluten-free to others, though casserole cooks should always discuss their recipe with those who are living a gluten-free lifestyle.
Recipes for gluten-free casseroles are readily available online, and it is certainly possible for cooks to substitute gluten-free ingredients for those that contain gluten in other recipes. For new gluten-free cooks, however, starting off with a dedicated gluten-free recipe may be the safest way to begin to prepare gluten-free foods. Many casseroles include pasta of some type, but it is often possible to substitute brown rice pasta or other gluten-free alternatives for wheat-based pastas. As with all casseroles, the quality of the ingredients can significantly affect the taste of the finished product. When possible, cooks should use high-quality vegetables, meats, and spices to create a delicious dish.
As tiny amounts of gluten can be problematic for many individuals, cooks should carefully read product labels to determine whether a product may be contaminated with gluten. If the product is then processed in a factory where it may be exposed to gluten, it may be best to leave that ingredient out of the casserole or speak to the gluten sensitive individual to find out if consuming the dish may be a problem. Some stores now offer entire gluten-free sections, which can make it easy for cooks to select gluten-free ingredients. Still, it is also a good idea to ask the store about its standards for gluten-free to avoid inadvertent inclusion of gluten in otherwise gluten-free casseroles.
