Fresh - Toronto Canada is Gluten Free Friendly

I'm told Fresh started as a juice bar and then expanded into the food world once they had gained enough of a fan base. Sadly on this short trip, I did not have the opportunity to try any of Fresh's juices / smoothies but I must say that at 2:00pm on a Friday afternoon, they where jammed packed.

" Go where the locals go - if the place is packed, most likely the food is amazing". 

Thanks to findmeglutenfree.com we where lead to Fresh for a late lunch while enjoying our tour in Toronto.I was hesitant at first when I found out this was a "chain" restaurant - but reluctantly agreed to try it out.

I just tend to hear the word "chain" and think fat, American's waist lines expanding, etc. - but Fresh is none of the above. It's a hip environment that the locals boost about. They do have a dedicated gluten free menu, but are sure to mention that while the ingredients are 100% gluten free- because they do make non-gluten free items in their kitchen, there is a possibility of contamination - I had no issues with cross contamination in my plate - SCORE!

There was actually a good bit of gluten free options and with much debate, I decided to go with the green goddess bowl. The bowl had all of my favorites - steamed kale, broccoli, grilled tempeh, pickled ginger (AMAZING), toasted sunflower seeds, tahini sauce, toasted nori (we all know I am addicted), and a ginger tamari sauce!

The portion size was, well, an abundance and well warranted after a long day of hiking through Toronto. 

The greens where steamed perfectly - still holding on to a little bit of their crunch. Both the sunflower seeds and the nori add a little jazz and saltiness to the salad and the tahini add an element of creaminess to the overall dish. I chowed down the entire portion- while my guests only made it half way through theirs. I just couldn't help it, all the flavors came together so perfectly and that creaminess that coated the rice - made it impossible to stop eating even when my head gave off that YOU ARE FULL alert! 

After all of our eating in Toronto, we unanimously voted Fresh as our favorite meal of the trip! 

I have been craving this dish since we returned to the States - too bad they have not yet trickled down to Philadelphia ;) Hint Hint! 

Kensington Cornerstone, Canada Trip Continued

I just have to say, doing your research will pay off! Prior to heading to Canada I was able to do a very quick search - findmeglutenfree.com (also available as an app) and google are my favorite tools! 

I found Kensington Cornerstone on findmeglutenfree.com and then did a quick search on google for reviews. I mean, just because it offers gluten free does not mean the food is any good or that the food is not contaminated. Better safe than sorry. 

The most exciting part about Kensington Cornerstone is that they are 100% gluten free and they have a pretty vast menu. While they receive more credit for their brunch - most likely because it's hard to find gluten free french toast and pancakes anywhere! - we had the opportunity to visit for dinner. 

Not knowing anything about the Kensington area, we quickly learned that it is heavily populated during the day hours and then everything seems to die down after 5pm. Which put us as pretty much Kensington Cornerstone's only dinner quests - which we loved, made for a nice relaxing dinner with the family! 

I was nervous - my family was being so kind even venturing out to a 100% gluten free restaurant - would they like the food?

We started with the Decadence Platter - which consisted of stuffed olives, Sardo cheese, almonds, sun-dried tomato and olive toast, grilled vegetables, sliced pears, and dates. 

The family dove right in and enjoyed every bit of the platter! 

For the entrees, I was struggling between the two vegan options (the stuffed pepper and the saffron rice). Thanks to the family's vote - I went with the saffron rice. According to their reviews, the stuffed pepper is a must - but there was something about that cold weather Canadian day that had drawn me to the saffron rice. 

The rice was delicious - but it was a bit too sweet for me. The dish was missing that hot spice that I was looking for - maybe it needed some garlic and a jalapeno - but still very tasty.  

I also ordered a pot of rooibos cocoa tea - which was the perfect accompaniment to a cold dreary day. 

My sister tried the pulled pork sandwich and loved it! I was sure to ask her what she thought of the gluten free bread. I have been eating it for so long, but I remember it being nothing like the gluten filled bread that she is used to and loves! Mia said she loved it! It was different, but still went well with the sandwich. 

The fish and chips was another loved dish! Everyone commented on how their was a nice ratio to batter and fish! The batter had good flavor to it! 

The coleslaw was another win and the waitress was kind enough to share the secret ingredients with us. It's simply: red cabbage, carrots, dill, garlic, and red wine vinegar. 

Kensington Cornerstone even offers some great gluten free dessert options! We tried the gluten free fudge brownie - yum! 

If I end up back in Canada, this will be a place I surely return to!

Canada is Gluten Free Friendly

Anytime I travel I get nervous that I will end up starving to death or worse yet, end up eating something contaminated with gluten - which then takes a good week or two to recover from.

To try and avoid some of the anxiety I always do my research - are there designated gluten free restaurants close to my destination? Is there an opportunity for me to bring my own food (fridge space)? Are there health food stores in a close proximity? All these questions and more run through my head each and every time I travel. You can see why traveling can be stressful for some, especially those of us with food allergies.

My trip to Canada was a short notice trip and to be honest, I really did not have a ton of time to research my food options. I did a quick google search and I appeared to be alright - plus my aunt reassured me that she had a gluten free store very close to her. I figured, whatever, I should be fine and be able to make something work.

Little did I know how wonderful Canada is when offering vegan and gluten free options. There was only a time or two that there was not a dedicated gluten free menu and very limited selections for me. However, I used my survival skills and asked the kitchen to make me my go to staple - a salad with some avocado and all the veggies they had! Honestly, this is my go to for whenever I end up in a bind. I simply ask the kitchen to take a bed of greens, add any and all the vegetables they have and look for some form of protein (hopeful for vegan options) - lastly, I ask for no dressing but rather lemon slices on the side. It does the trick and holds me over until I can find additional food else where.

I must say, I truly enjoyed my stay in Canada. Canada is clean, welcoming, and trendy! 

I even got my first bike ride in! 

Adding to this post - TheKitchn has a great article about traveling with dietary restrictions

Sip N Glo Juicery

If you have not yet been to Philadelphia's newest juice bar - head on over to Sip N Glo and support our latest healthy food / drink joint in Philadelphia!  

Sip N Glo is still moving through some growing pains - wait time can be a bit long and the menu is still a bit limited - but the owner insurances us that more is to come as Sip N Glo continues to develop!

I'm hopeful for some beets and more vegan options!

In the meantime, the green beast was a great re-hydration for a hot summer day -- not that we have seen many of those nice weather days in Philly this spring / summer.

Anyhow, check Sip N Glo out, support our local shops!

Best of luck to Sip N Glo as they continue to grow and become a great success! 

GFAF Expo Bloggers!

I've been accepted to participate as a blogger for the New Jersey GFAF Expo Event - and what an honor it is!!

If you have not gotten your tickets yet, hurry up! I hope to see you soon!

Cheu Noodle Bar Can Accommodate Gluten Free

I just wanted to share that the new Cheu Noodle Bar on S. 10th street is able to accommodate us gluten free folks.

According to the restaurant, they have a rice noodle option, all their broths are gluten free as well as their soy sauce!

P.S kimchi is also gluten free!!

Aksum Cafe, Offers Gluten Free in West Philly

Brunch use to be one of my favorite meals - my favorite dish of course being poached eggs dripping over a spicy sweet potato hash - YUM! I get hungry just thinking about it.

Now that I have given up eggs, eating brunch out is typically damn near impossible!

That's is, unless you can find a restaurant that can provide more than just sliced fruit to their gluten free and vegan clientele - well, Aksum, can do just that!

My sister lives in West Philly and I have passed Aksum a number of times, including during Dollar Stroll Days, but I was never brave enough to see if they would be able to accommodated my diet - but I had guests in from out of town so I figured why not try it.

Upon arrival, I asked the waitress if she would be able to review the menu and confirm what is and what could be gluten free. She kindly agreed to - but when she brought the menu over, there was no need for her to review as they already have their menu coded out (Vegetarian, Vegetarian Option, Gluten free, Gluten Free Option, etc).

My guest and I decided to share an appetizer. I was a bit selfish and pretty much demanded we try the Med East Platter (it was calling my name). The platter consisted of stuffed grape leaves, house-made hummus, and a mustard lentil salad. 

We had to almost fight over the last grape leaf - they were so delicious! They were full of flavor without all the typical loaded oils! The hummus was enjoyable (what hummus isn't?) and the mustard lentil salad was interesting. I think it was the least of my favorites but still good. I would have enjoyed it even more if I LOVED mustard - but none the less, still delicious. 

For our main dishes we went back and forth on what to order, because everything sounded amazing and the plates that others ordered around us made us envious. 

My guest decided to go with one of her true brunch passions - Creme Brulee French Toast. 

I choose to go with the Spicy Foul Muddammas (without the egg) - my dish option turned out to be a popular choice at our table. 

 

This dish has officially put Aksum on my top 5 favorites of Philadelphia! It was filling (almost too filling), spicy, sassy, bold, creamy, crunchy (thanks to the side of breakfast potatoes) and honestly a dish from heaven! I finished the entire serving and found myself upset later that night when I didn't have leftovers to enjoy for dinner. 

I rate Aksum an A+ on gluten free and vegan choices and an A+ on taste. Next time, I need to stop in for dinner!

Jar Bar's Groupon Deal

I have this love hate relationship with Group, LivingSocial, etc and here is why:
A. I purchase the deal and never use it
B. I wanted to purchase the deal, contemplate it too long and then never purchase the dumb thing

This one however, was a must! I'd been to Jar Bar before and LOVED it.

This time, of course I got a juice and then decided I would try something new. To be honest, none of the selections looked great to me. They had a kale salad - that to me - appeared to be just drenched in oil. Then there was a raw burger - which looked sad. It was a burger with a small piece of side lettuce and that's about it. There was a hummus salad and one or two other options - but nothing really appealed to me.

I decided to go with the Nori wraps - although they looked small and not very filling - so I added the only and only dessert option they had - a chocolate avocado pie.

The nori wrap was tasteless - even with the housemade cashew ranch dressing. I was trying to drench all the veggies in the dressing for hopes of some flavor. Also, a big disappointment here is that everything is premade so the nori wrap was mushy and messy - and again, lost it's flavor.

I think moved onto the dessert portion of my dinner. This was good - but very very sweet. Too sweet for me. At least it was more filling than my nori wraps.

So in conclusion, I love Jar Bar and their juices but their food is overpriced for the portions and to be honest - not my first choice of food.

Check Out My Post on Philly Love Notes

I am honored to finally have a post on Philly Love Notes! Philly is such an amazing place to live and offers us gluten free / vegetarian / vegan folks a lot of options!

When being gluten free is AWESOME - Eden a Vegan Cafe, Scranton, PA

A couple of weekends ago, I attended an all day concert event with my sister and a couple of friends. This event, held in the Scranton area, was to include a farmers market and a number of food vendors. Not being allowed to leave once you entered the event - nor being allowed to bring food in from the outside, I was pretty confident that the farmers market would provide enough food that I could manage a dinner.

Upon arrival, I noticed the What the Fork Food Truck. Thinking Philly and all the awesome food trucks that offer gluten free options, I ran over to What the Fork and asked if they could accommodate gluten free guests.  Surprise! They actually have a dedicated fryer. Now, fried food and meats are not my first pick - in fact, I try and steer clear of these choices, but when in a bind, a girl has to eat!

Come 6:30 -7:00ish I was getting very hungry. I took one more stroll around the venue to check out my food options. The farmers market was a bust - because there was no actually produce and What the Fork food truck had decided to leave early on the count of the miserable weather! AH! What is a girl to do now? I decided, the only thing I could do was leave and find something close by to eat.

How was this fair, because I am a medically diagnosed gluten free freak I am unable to attend the entire event - it was really only just getting started. I decided I would remedy this somehow. I spoke with the gate keepers once more and they firmly said, when you leave - your done. No reentry. I then spoke with the manager, much more accommodating - I can leave grab food and bring it back in! Finally a win! Now, what the heck is there to eat gluten free in Scranton, PA let alone gluten free and vegan. Then I remembered, I had been to Eden a Vegan Cafe sometime ago and enjoyed it. Let's see what they can do for me.

I ran (literally) to my car, made a quick call to Eden and got their voicemail. Oh no!!! This can't be happening. I can't think of anywhere else I can eat. Let me try again. I dialed 3 more times before I got someone on the phone and once I did, heaven!

I informed the the waitress that I needed to order something gluten free and preferably something warm, as I had been standing in the rain all day and was officially chilled to the bone.

No problem, how do you feel about one of our hot sandwiches? Ham and cheese seem to be our popular today. Would you like any condiments, what side would you like? All of these questions where music to my ears!

Lucky me, I found a parking spot right up front - jetted in - grabbed my food and ran (again, literally) back to the venue where I was finally able to enjoy some delicious and what felt like, life saving food!

 Once again, this establishment will never fully comprehend just how awesome they are! It's amazing to have gluten free and vegan options available when you need them!

When you live a GF VF lifestyle it's still a challenge to find food that fits the bill 100%.

P.S Eden's bathroom are by far - the most interesting bathroom I've ever seen! It's decorated in vegan friendly bumper stickers!

Gluten Free at SweetGreen, Ardmore PA

While I honestly feel better on a gluten free and vegan diet (ok - mostly vegan diet), it is a struggle to do things on a social level. When the opportunity came up for us at work to have a ladies lunch out, I quickly suggested Sweetgreen. While it was a bit of a drive for us, from what I had previously read about the company, they have awesome credentials.

I was still taking a chance, having never been previously as to what I could expect as far as contamination was concerned. When we arrived at Sweetgreen, the place was jam packed with a line tinkling outside - which is a good sign, no? The place must have some decent food!

When I patiently awaited my turn, I took another look at their menu and my head began to spin with all the possibilities I actually had! It's rare you find a places that has more than 2 or 3 vegan and gluten free entrees.

At the counter, I informed the Sweetgreen team member that I was gluten free. Her response was a positive one. Without any further interaction she quickly paused - cleaned the counter, changed her gloves and off we where! When I asked questions about ingredients and if they were gf safe, she was kind enough to always stop and verify that each and every item was in fact gluten free and was surrounded by other gluten free options.

Of course I took the challenge and created my own salad! While the price was a little hefty - the taste was amazing!

Dear Sweetgreen, while to you, this may be a day-to-day norm - I am truly grateful that you have the ability to offer such fresh ingredients and empower your employees to handle the multiple food allergies / lifestyle choices of their customers. I will be sure to stop back in!

Gluten Free Dinner Under 30 - Part 9

A generous helping of steamed vegetables drenched in a lemon tahini sauce along with a baked sweet potato. 

I cheated and used a frozen bag of plain vegetables and then added a small side salad. While cooking in the microwave may not be ideal - it does the trick when you are in a rush! 

Gluten Free and Vegan is Growing in Popularity

 Organic Harvest has supplied us gluten free folks with an organic, not to salty, "hott" sauce with a punch! I've religiously been using this sauce for everything - including sprinkle some on pineapple.

Whole Foods is carrying some convenient frozen precooked quiona.

Happy Hal's has a spicy jalapeno relish that is gluten free.

Sophie's Kitchen is offering those who are both gluten free and vegan some delicious "seafood" options.

Hilary's Eat Well has a line of delicious gluten free and vegan burgers!

Belvoir Farms is divine line of juices. I fell in love with the Elderflower.

Gluten Free and Vegan Sushi

Prior to my gluten free diagnosis about 5 and a half years ago, I was a rather picky eater. I was comfortable with my broiled chicken, pasta, oh and did I mention pasta? I never ventured, nor had a reason to venture out of my comfort zone. My parents where pretty stuck in their ways (pot roast, pasta, and mac and cheese). 

After the diagnosis I was forced to learn to love other foods and I quickly did just that. Sadly, I had never had the opportunity to try sushi and decided I enjoy the seaweed snacks so why not go all out and try making some vegan and gluten free sushi rolls. 

I simply added some almond butter, mango, and marinated veggies = HEAVEN!

Wegmans Gluten Free Sushi

In a recent trip to Wegmans, I noticed the gluten free soy sauce next to their pre-made sushi.  I got curious and emailed the company to find out if they had changed their sushi ingredients to now be gluten free. Below was my response:

"We will never be able to call any of our sushi Gluten Free as it is prepared in an open area. We currently have rolled out to the stores a Gluten Free Soy Sauce that will replace the current soy sauce packet in the packages. Once this happens, many of our sushi rolls will be gluten free by ingredient. 

The reason we have to call out the wheat on the packages of sushi which would normally be No Gluten Ingredients is that there is residue on the outside of the packets that may contain gluten (these come in a big case and one of the packets could break open and leak all over the case.)

By May 1st we will be switched over to the new packet when the older inventory runs out. In the meantime, you can have any of those rolls that are gluten free by ingredient made to order at the sushi counter."

I love Wegmans and all the strides they take to help those of us living allergy free lives!

Wheatgrass Juice

Work has started their annual "On the Move" competition. Which is basically a great reminder that we all get wrapped into our work and forget about out health.

The whole point of the competition is not for employees to necessarily make large changes - but simple things like staring your day thirty minutes earlier so that you can get in a invigorating three thousand steps before the work day begins. Or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

I've taken the leadership role for my team and I have decided to take pride in it. I'm really starting to enjoy starting my day with a wheatgrass juice, thirty minutes of walking and just in general moving around more. I'm sure the spring sunshine has something to do with that ;).

I challenge you all to take small steps towards a healthier you.

Malia's Cafe, Ocean City Maryland Offers Gluten Free Pancakes

Malia's Cafe in Ocean City, Maryland has something special to offer us gluten free folks! Gluten Free Pancakes! 

When we first arrived for breakfast, I asked the waiter if they were able to offer anything that was gluten free and vegan. She quickly replied, we have a gluten free pancakes and waffle mix. My hopes are so high! I have not had a gluten free pancake in ....well...years, let alone have gluten free pancakes while out. I quickly came back to reality and asked the waiter, what about cross-contamination? Are these gluten free menu items cooked on their own griddles? The waiter was honest and said, no - they are made on the same flat top. However, we can use clean utensils and a pan to make you some gluten free pancakes. 

The gluten free pancakes came out delicious and my stomach did just fine with them!

The rest of the family enjoyed their breakfast dishes as well - I would have to say, the french toast smelled and looked the most appealing! 

Mother's Cantina, Ocean City Maryland

Mother's Cantina, is an adorable joint located right off of Philadelphia Ave. in Ocean City, Maryland.

Being gluten free and vegan, you know you are always taking a chance when eating out. Back in the hotel we took votes on what type of cuisine everyone was in the mood for, Mexican won and Mother's Cantina was the nearest location...

I walked into the restaurant armed and ready with my own prepacked dinner - but after having a quick but detailed conversation with the hostess I was feeling confident that Mother's Cantina might just be able to deliver a gluten free meal.

Of course, before ordering I spoke with the waiter and asked for recommendations / their famous dishes. I decided to go with a side of Mexican rice, a side of refried beans, and a small service of guacamole and pico.

I was a bit disappointed - it is clear Mother's Cantina makes their sides in bulk and leaves them to sit for an extended period of time. While the beans had an ok flavor - they and the rice were cold. 

The side of rice also lacked any real flavor or spice to it. I mean, isn't that the point of calling it Mexican rice - because of the bold flavor? 

The guacamole on the other hand was delicious! I couldn't get enough!

My dad had the chicken fajita - which he devoured and just an FYI could be made GF. 

Thank you Mother's Cantina for offering gluten free safe dishes - my advise - focus on preparing fresh dishes!

A Gluten Free Vegan Weekend of Traveling

While I love traveling and just packing up and running away for a weekend, sometimes, it's more of a stress than a relaxer. I don't know what I am going to find in terms of food --- what all do I need to pack and if I don't eat it, did I just waste food?

The questions and stress seem to pile up! This weekend however, I was determined to do it. I really wanted to make it to OCMD to support my sister and her team at their cheerleading competition. So I packed up and off we were.

I decided to pack a quick lunch for the car ride - it's a great way for me to waste some time in a long car ride. Especially since we all know, everyone else is going to fall asleep on me ...


For lunch I tossed together a cilantro pesto salad and some fresh mango! Again, addicted to mango!

The ride ended up a bit long thanks to traffic - but hey I got some good quality me time in! Which to be honest, after such a crazy busy week just kind of sitting and relaxing was much appreciated and the weather was just perfect. The sun was out and shinning and it was warm - but not too warm.

I made out like a bandit when it came to food this weekend, postings coming soon . There are still some restaurants, despite them having allergy menus, that I still just don't trust to provide a safe gluten free / vegan meal. When the fam squad ran into Ruby Tuesdays for a quick lunch I opted to bring in my own food, which Ruby Tuesdays was kind enough to allow.

I brought in a salad with a tahini honey dressing and a seaweed topping - which provide that nice needed saltiness to the salad!

Tahini Dressing
-Tahini
-Honey (not vegan, I know)
-Garlic
-Water
-Ground pepper

I had an awesome weekend - proud of the Penn State Mont Alto girls!

They performed with their hearts and nailed their movements!

Oh and look what we found - the FLAMINGO HOTEL

Jar Bar: Raw, Vegan, & Gluten Free

I am truly appreciative that the movement towards healthier eating is slowly but surely taking over Philadelphia and its surrounding areas. I am not just speaking in regards to gluten free options, but raw, vegetarian, vegan, grass-fed meat, and so on are all becoming readily available!

Just thought I would toss out another reason to love the city of brotherly love! It took awhile for Philadelphia to feel like home for me, but now I'm starting to fall hard for this amazing city and all the opportunities it has to offer. 

In my venture to learn and love this city - I have stumbled into a number of establishment and it is rare that I am unable to find something to eat. Yes, typically my adventures involve lots of questions to both the wait staff and chef - but much to my dismay, the chefs are enthusiastic to have the opportunity to create a one of a kind masterpiece that meets my needs and wants. It's such an honor to be able to first hand, experience the culinary talent we have here in Philly!

From time-to-time, I do get stuck with the safe dish of roasted oil-coated vegetables. These are time times that I suck it up, appreciate that I am able to eat something and enjoy my company. So when I find an establishment that is 100% gluten free and vegan, I get a bit hyped. OK - I get overly hyped!

On my top list of Must Trys, has been Jar Bar. Oddly enough, I just never had the time to search it out. Shame on me, because it turns out, it is so close I could most likely walk there. 

Jar Bar is located right inside the Philadelphia Sports Club in Wayne. Just walk in the main entrance and BOOM- to your left is Jar Bar! 

Juices can be purchased pre-made or fresh-to-order. 

The only disappointment for me, was that the food is only available pre-made and not everything on the menu is always available. Maybe I was setting the standards high after my visit to nearby Raw Can Roll. Either way, the juice was amazing and the food was just as wonderful!

I choose to go with the popular Burn Juice. This juice contains cucumber, apple, lemon, ginger, and cayenne. 

I LOVE cucumber

I LOVE apple

I LOVE lemon

I LOVE ginger

I LOVE cayenne

.... but cayenne mixed into a juice --- hmm, not sure if I would enjoy it or hate it. Of course, I loved it! It gave the juice I nice kick! 

My options for food, were a bit limited this particular date and time. I had the options of:

-Sprouted Hummus Salad

-Raw Sweet Potato Pasta

-Baja Burrito 

-Meatloaf (not listed on their online menu)

-An assortment of desserts.

I choose to go with the Baja Burrito. This collard leaf  is stuffed with a mixture of chili-cumin walnuts, tomatoes  onions, and sprouts. It had great flavor, but it was missing a sauce to take away from all the crunch from the nuts. The menu pairs this burrito with a cashew ranch sauce, but that was missing from the refrigerator  I kindly asked the staff if there was a dressing available and she recommended the creamy avocado citrus dressing - what a great match!

I honestly could have devoured a galled on this avocado dressing! It was creamy, light, refreshing, and tangy all in one! 

I can't wait to return and I wish Jar Bar the best of luck and hope of future expansions. This wish may be a bit selfish, but I really do enjoy being able to step outside and fine a healthy, quick meal. 

Next visit I am hopeful to try both the Sprouted Hummus Wrap in a toasted nori wrap and / or the Burger and Fries dish! 

Bulu Box, Gluten Free?

I've received a number of emails from friends and family in regards to the current Living Social deal for Bulu Box.

I finally caved in and decided to check out the website. There was no apparent evidence that these monthly boxes are gluten free so I emailed the company and received the following response.

For now, I will steer clear of Bulu Box, but look forward to the possibility of someday ordering a 100% GF Bulu Box.

"We like to put a variety of products in each Bulu box that will work for the majority of our Bulugans and their lifestyles. That being said, we cannot guarantee that every product in your monthly Bulu Box will be gluten free. However, we are working very hard to make customized boxes for our Bulugans a possibility in the near future. ..."

More Love for Zahav

Once again, Zahav is impressing Philadelphian bloggers.

Check out this adorable post from Tasty Sausages. Every dish, minus those that contained eggplant were devoured by Jett and his guests. It just goes to prove that Zahav will not disappoint.

I would love to team up with Jett some time soon and explore some amazing Philly food!

University of Penn Offers Gluten Free

Work took me into the big city of Philadelphia today.

I love driving into the city, especially in the wee hours of a sunny morning. Now, I could do without the stand still traffic that comes with driving into any city, but in all honesty, it was still a pretty meditative drive for me.

Out of no where, it was getting closer to 1:00pm and my stomach was calling my name. I decided to take a chance and try UPenn's food court. I was pretty sure that I would be at a loss and it would be even later and still nothing in my stomach.

At first glance, UPenn's food court is way more attractive than any of my prior school's food courts ever could have been. I took a little walk around and while at first glance I did not find anything that appeared to GF safe. I saw a sushi bar, sandwich bar, pasta bar, pizza, etc. -all the obvious non-GF friendly college kid food.

Then I turned around and saw a bookshelf of Glutino gf offerings - cookies, chips, crackers... . There is hope, they understand what GF is!! I was rushed and with a colleague from work, so I did not have the opportunity to speak with the kitchen staff, so I said a prayer and grabbed a pre-made salad and hoped for the best.

It was a plain side salad and I used little to no dressing, so I can't say anything positive about the food, but I also did not have the opportunity to full research other offerings. A+ for having the dedicated GF bookshelf of goodies UPenn!

Happy Easter - Gluten Free Style

The holidays always bring tradition and this year we are preparing deviled eggs two ways:

1. Mom's version
2. Grandma's (dad's mom's) version

Mom's Version

Ingredients:
-Hard Boiled Eggs
-Miracle Whip
-Paprika

*Simply hard boil the eggs, cut the eggs length wise and put the cooked yolks in one bowl and the whites in a hand-dandy deviled egg holder (if you do not have one, you can use any container). Smash up the egg yolks, mix in some miracle whip (add as much as you need to make it creamy), and scoop the yolk mixture into the eggs whites. Sprinkle with paprika and place in the fridge until ready. 

-This recipe is best the next day, so if you have a full 24 hours to prepare in advance, do so. 

Grandma's Version

Ingredients:

-Hard boiled eggs
-Mayo
-Relish
-Paprika

*Simply hard boil the eggs, cut the eggs length wise and put the cooked yolks in one bowl and the whites in a hand-dandy deviled egg holder (if you do not have one, you can use any container). Smash up the egg yolks, mix in some of the mayo and the relish. Scoop the yolk mixture into the eggs whites. Sprinkle with paprika and place in the fridge until ready.

-This recipe is best the next day, so if you have a full 24 hours to prepare in advance, do so. 

No matter what your religious beliefs may be, I hope you all enjoy a wonderful Sunday together with your family and loved ones - because isn't that what it is really all about?

Gluten Free At Matador, Wayne, PA

Tonight I had the opportunity to finally try the long-awaited Matador in Wayne, PA.

I did some pretty extensive research on the restaurant - customer reviews - a rather in-depth study of the menu - and I spoke with one of the managers.

The reviews are iffy - some say Matador is "amazing"  others say not worth is.

The menu looks promising for a gluten free vegan eater.

The manager was extraordinarily knowledgeable on both the gluten free world and the vegan world. Some may have difficultly merging the two worlds, but this manager was able to withstand the challenge and any questions I tossed at him.

Upon arrival, the curb appeal of Matador is an A+. It gives off that  sexy inviting vibe. Walking into the restaurant, Matador is able to retain that hott, flamenco dancing atmosphere.

I was able to sneak in a quick talk with the hostess before my guest arrived. The hostess, now armed and ready with my food preferences chose to seat us upstairs where the more knowledgeable chef was stationed.

The hostess stood corrected, the waiter was very well-educated not only on the gluten free and began needs, but on the entire food and drink menu. The waiter did not mind taking the time to go through everything in detail and make a couple of recommendations.

We started with a couple of glasses of wine and shared the Pico De Gallo and the Guacamole. The Pico De Gallo, while a tad bit too mild for my liking, was still pretty delicious and clearly freshly made. The guacamole  is made right on spot. The waiter wheels over his tray and proceeds to cut and mash the avocados in front of his audience. What a presentations and way to set the bar high! The taste, did not hold not even come close to the presentation. There was no taste. No jalapeno. Just bland mush - which I have to say, I should have been prepared for, as a number of the online reviews did warn of this - than again, some of the online reviews raved about Matador's guacamole.

Hopeful for a better entree, the waiter recommended a vegetable fajita with the following toppings: guacamole,pico de gallo, and lettuce. The skillet came out sizzling hot and looked pretty satisfying.

Sadly, once again, there was no real flavor in the guacamole and the vegetables were lathered, drenched, soaked, however you want to say it, in a boat load of oil. 

My guest tried the steak filet, which was overcooked and dry, with the spicy potatoes. My guest was unable to finish his dish due to the dissatisfaction in taste.

Overall, the atmosphere receives an A+, the wait staff receives an A, but the food receives a D. My advice, this time around, listen to the online reviews.

Quick and Easy Gluten Free Spicy Salad

While visiting my folks last weekend, long-story-sort, I fractured my wrist. Being right-handed, with the limited use of my left-hand I realized just how much I truly use it! I have made some accommodations and I am adjusting just fine, but the little things have proven to be very appreciated this week. 

Thank goodness I was prepared in advance and made a ginormous salad for my work lunches - and I received a lot of compliments for this one!

It was one of the easiest salads I have ever made.

-Coleslaw mix

-Zucchini Noodles

-Celery

-Radish

-Celery  

-Cucumber

-Greens

-Peppers

-Scallions

-Sprouts

-Cilantro

-Lemon Juice

-Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

-Turmeric

-Red Pepper

-Cumin (just a pinch)

Gluten Free Easter Candy

EASTER CANDY LIST - Provided by glutenfreechecklist.com

SWEET PETE’S ALL NATURAL SWEETS
Gourmet Gluten Free Chocolate Bunnies, Peanut Butter Eggs, Buttercream Eggs, All Natural Lollipops & All Natural Assorted Candy

BUTTERFINGER – Crème Eggs, Nest Eggs,

CADBURY - Caramel Egg Candy, CADBURY Caramel Mini Eggs, CADBURY Crème Egg Candy, CADBURY Crème Mini Eggs, CADBURY Dairy Milk Solid Milk Chocolate Bunny, CADBURY Mini Eggs Candy, CADBURY Dairy Milk Hollow Egg filled with CADBURY Mini Eggs, CADBURY Orange Crème Egg

DUBBLE BUBBLE – Speckled Chick Eggs Bubble Gum, Egg Shaped Bubble Gum

FERRARA PAN- Chewy Lemonhead and Friends Jelly Beans, Lemonhead & Friends Jelly Beans Boxes, Lemonhead & Friends Jely Chix & Rabbits, Chocolate Almond Eggs, Chewy Lemonhead & Friends/Red Hot Jelly Bean

GIMBAL’s FINE CANDIES - Assorted Easter Gourmet Jelly Beans, Easter Pink Gourmet Jelly Beans, Sour Bunnies,

HARIBO – Gold Bunnies

HARIBO – Gummi Candy-Gold Bunny

HERSHEY’S® - Pastel KISSES® Milk Chocolate, Milk Chocolate with Almonds, Milk Chocolate Filled with Caramel, Solid Milk Chocolate Princess Bunny, HERSHEY'S BLISS Milk Chocolate Eggs, HERSHEY'S BLISS Milk Chocolate Eggs with Melt away Center, HERSHEY'S BLISS Milk Chocolate Hollow Bunny, HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Bunnies 6-Pack,
HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate Drops, HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate Egg with Chocolate Crème Center, HERSHEY'S Speedy Bunny Milk Chocolate, HERSHEY'S MINIATURES Chocolate Bars, HERSHEY'S Solid Milk Chocolate Eggs, HERSHEY’S Solid Milk Chocolate SNAPSY Bunny

INDIE CANDY – All the Classics Easter Basket, Carrot Lollipop, Classic Chocolate Bunny, Easter Bunnie Gummies, Easter Egg Crystal Lollipop, Easter Egg Lollipop, Easter Fun Bucket, Funny Bunny Chocolate Lollipop, Key Lime Bunnie Gummies, Peter Rabbit Chocolate Lollipop, Pineapple Bunnie Gummies, Watermelon Bunnie Gummies,

JELLY BELLY JELLY BEANS – Jelly Beans-all flavors

JUST BORN - PEEPS® Chocolate Covered Marshmallow, PEEPS® Chocolate Mousse Flavored Bunnies, PEEPS® Marshmallow Yellow Chicks, PEEPS® Sugar Free Marshmallow Chicks, PEEPS® Marshmallow Pink Chicks, PEEPS® Marshmallow Lavender Chicks, PEEPS® Marshmallow Green Bunnies, PEEPS® Marshmallow Cocoa Bunnies, PEEPS® Marshmallow Blue Chicks, Jelly Beans, Mike and IKE® Fruit Flavored Jelly Beans

JOLLY RANCHER – Original Jelly Beans, Sours Bunnies, Fruit Smoothies Jelly Beans,
LIFE SAVERS – Jelly Beans-all flavors

M&M’s – Bunny Mix -Almond Chocolate Candy, Dark Chocolate Candy, Milk Chocolate Candy, Peanut Chocolate Candy, Solid Milk Chocolate Bunny

NECCO® - Tiny Jelly Beans, Candy Eggs, Marshmallow Egg Crate, Marshmallow Rabbits, Tiny Tangy Wabbits

REESE'S - REESTER BUNNY Peanut Butter Candy, REESE'S Mini REESTER BUNNIES Candy, REESE'S PIECES Peanut Butter Pastel Egg Candy, REESE'S Peanut Butter Eggs,
REESE'S Peanut Butter Cup Miniatures, REESE'S PIECES Candy Carrot, REESE'S Milk Chocolate and Peanut Butter Bunny

SOUR PATCH - Bunnies

SPANGLER CANDY COMPANY - Zanies – Wacky Marshmallow Treats, StrawMallows Marshmallow, Circus Peanuts

SWEDISH FISH - Eggs

STARBURST® - Original Jelly Beans, Crazy Beans, Sours, Tropical

TOOTSIE ROLL INDUSTRIES - CHARM’S – Super Blow Pop Eggs, Easter Mini Pops, Fluffy Stuff Cotton Tails, Tootsie Roll Holiday Midgees & Snack Bars, Easter Egg Tootsie Pops, Dots-Easter,

WONKA – Gobstopper Eggs, Sweet Tart Eggs, Chicks, Ducks
YORK – Pastel Wrapped Mini Peppermint Patties,

Fermenting Fantastic Food In Philadelphia with Amanda

Amanda, a local Philadelphian, has a passion for fermentation and takes pleasure in educating others!

If you have any interest in fermentation, be not afraid, Amanda breaks down the steps of fermenting into an easily digestible process. Further details can be found on Amanda's blog, Phickle, plus add her blog to your reader for first hand notice of upcoming course offerings- trust me, it is well worth it!

Prior to attending the course with Amanda, I did express my  gluten free concerns - which she ever so knowledgeably replied back with confidence that this particular course would be 100% gluten free.

Upon arrival, which of course Fran and I were late to (my apologies a thousand times), Amanda had prepared a number of kimchi varieties - hot mild and very hot - served with corn wraps (yay, gluten free!). I enjoyed each variety, but we all know where my heart is --- the more heat the better.

Amanda quickly moved into the educational part of the course and then we were off, creating our own batch of kimchi. No need to be redundant but, just emphasizing that my group choose to but in a pretty decent amount of hot peppers. While we had free rein to be creative, Amanda was never more than an arms length away and ready to assist with any questions or concerns - and what a wealth of fermentation knowledge she is!

I think I have officially become a fermentation freak! I am counting down the days until I can dig into my prepared (extra extra extra hot) kimchi and looking forward to participating in some of Amanda's future fermentation courses.