Cooking for everyone at Christmas is often easier said then done, especially when catering for everyone’s tastes and special diets. With Allergy UK quoting that around 45 per cent of the population has a food allergy or intolerance, and around half a million people in the UK thought to have coeliac disease, it has never been more important to be prepared. 




Leading gluten and wheat free brand, Dietary Specials (DS - gluten free) has developed a delicious traditional gluten free Christmas pudding recipe and some easy to follow ‘Top Ten Gluten Free Cooking Tips’ to help keep tummy troubles at bay during the festive season


Top Ten Gluten Free Cooking Tips:

• Ensure you are up to date with all your guests’ allergies or intolerances before the day. Visit www.dietaryspecials.co.uk for information and tips about what to avoid putting on their plates. 
   
• When cooking, use a different baking tin or tray to separate food containing wheat and gluten away from free from alternatives.
   
• If this is not possible, ensure the baking tins and trays are well covered with greaseproof paper or baking parchment.
   
• When making your gravy for Christmas dinner, use a gluten free flour mix or cornflour instead of mainstream wheat based flours.
   
• When making stuffing use gluten free sausages and breadcrumbs made from gluten free bread. These make a tasty substitute the whole family will enjoy.
   
• Save time and use DS gluten free frozen Yorkshire Puddings which are a fantastic accompaniment to your Christmas dinner.
   
• When cooking gluten free cakes and breads, use a little xantham gum to help the stability. However be aware that using too much will affect the taste.
   
• Use a gluten free suet when making a Christmas pudding or mincemeat.
   
• If you are unable to obtain this, substitute with lard or a hard vegetable fat - ensure this is really chilled and grate in as the last ingredient.
   
• Use gluten free bread made into breadcrumbs for a tasty Christmas pudding recipe which is safe for all to enjoy.