Christmas is a time for making lists, purchasing presents, foraging for the decorations and making sure you get that turkey in time! Yes, everyone can appreciate how hectic it can be in the run up to the special day, but for people with a food allergy or intolerance or those who suffer with coeliac disease Christmas tends to involve a lot more preparation.

DS–gluten free (Dietary Specials) are giving out presents early this year, in the form of our guide to a gluten free Christmas. Whether you’re the one cooking for the family (lucky you) or you’re a guest in a non gluten free household we have some handy hints and tips to make your gluten free Christmas trouble free!

• Our motto at DS–gluten free is preparation. Ensure you are aware of all of your guests’ allergies or intolerances before the day. Make a list of all of the gluten containing items you will need to substitute, for example Yorkshire puddings, gravy, stuffing and research which recipes and products you need to buy (see further down this article for our top ten gluten free treats this Christmas for some ideas). DS–gluten free products are found in a variety of different supermarkets and online retailers, have a look at our where to buy list
• Remember, lots of gluten free alternatives taste just as good as mainstream foods, so you don’t necessarily have to prepare separate dishes, why not just prepare one gluten free meal for everyone to enjoy?
• Once you’ve found gluten free foods that will suit everyone store them separately from mainstream items. Use different baking tins and trays when you cook to ensure no cross contamination or if you don’t have enough tins, ensure that they are washed and well covered with greaseproof paper or baking parchment.
• Christmas puddings and mincemeats are festive classics. People on a gluten free diet don’t have to miss out by substituting mainstream suet for gluten free suet, which is availabe at Dunnes, Superquinn and Tesco stores.
• Expert gluten free bakers will already be aware of Xantham gum. Using a little xantham gum when cooking gluten free cakes and bread can be just what you need to give stability, but don’t use too much as this will effect taste.

DS-gluten free's Festive treats this Chistmas
1. Gluten free bread makes excellent bread crumbs which are handy in lots of gluten free recipes , why not use them in our delicious cranberry and apricot stuffing recipe, delicious for the whole family!

2.  Along with the decorations, families also like to bring down the sweetie bowls – fill yours with TRUfree’s Chocolate Fingers, gluten free and wheat free smothered in luxurious chocolate.

3.  After a festive feast not everyone can manage a Christmas pudding so why not serve up cheese and TRUfree gluten free crackers? High Fibre is the perfect base for any cheese topping and the Herb & Onion are just as delicious served solo.


4. TRUfree’s crunchy gluten free and wheat free Pretzels are also perfect for parties. Proud winners of the “Savoury biscuits and Snacks” award at the Foods Matter 2010 Free From awards.

5. Finally, what’s a gluten free Christmas without a gluten free Christmas pudding? We have developed this gluten free recipe for a microwavable cranberry and orange Christmas pudding that’s handy to make a few days before Christmas.

We hope that you’ve found our guide to a gluten free Christmas useful. If you need any more advice this season don’t hesitate to call our friendly careline 1 800 818 551, speak to others in the same situation on the DS Forum or email any of your queries to info@dietaryspecials.co.uk

Merry Christmas everyone and a Happy New Year!





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