• May 5, 2023
  • Sangeeta Ganguly

GLUTEN-FREE AND NUT-FREE SOLUTION FOR BAKED GOODS


GLUTEN-FREE AND NUT-FREE SOLUTION FOR BAKED GOODS

In today's world for most individuals, the morning starts with a fluffy piece of bread which gives us immense delight as we take a bite of the chewy morsel. So what do you think gives the bread this mushy property? It is gluten - a type of protein that provides elasticity and soft texture in most grain-based food. 
But for some of us, this pleasure is denied, they are people who are intolerant to gluten and thus suffer from adverse health reactions when they consume food like bread, cakes, etc.
 
Unfortunately, some others cannot have nuts also. Walnuts, almonds, and pecans can cause terrible allergies and in some extreme cases threaten lives as well. Thus, both these groups of people have to refrain from having baked delicacies. Sadly, life becomes extremely dull and monotonous when so many restrictions are imposed. 
 
Sesame is a great substitute for flour
 
However, not all is lost. Culinary experts have found a great way to replace wheat flour, the most important ingredient of baked products with sesame flour. This type of flour is made from defatted seeds i.e. seeds from which oil has been removed. It can also be a substitute for almond flour as it has the same sweet and nutty taste. Thus, it’s a great savior for the above-mentioned individuals who are sensitive to gluten as well as nuts. Besides it is extremely nutritious with high iron, calcium, and magnesium content. A good amount of protein and vitamin B6 is also present and of course, they taste heavenly. 
 How to get started
 
Now if you are ready to go the extra mile and make your flour 100% gluten-free it is best to make it at home. This ensures that the product does not come in contact with any glutinous substances and cause problems. Also, you get the freshest and purest flour that does not have preservatives added to lengthen the shelf life. You would need to get the right kind of grinding mill or a food processor and carefully ground it. Make sure not to grind the seeds too fine, else you get seed butter as the final product that can be used for making Tahini but cannot be used for baking. 
 
The process of bread making
 
 This is the same as the way traditional breads are made; the only difference is that it is a healthier alternative. 
  • First, you need to preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
  • Take a large bowl and add 1 cup of sesame flour, 1 cup of water, a pinch of salt, and some baking soda.
  • Mix all the ingredients well by stirring and make a smooth paste
  • Pour the mixture into a greased container and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top
  • At least 40 minutes of baking is required until the bread is fully cooked and turns golden brown
  • Give the bread some time to cool before taking it out of the pan
  • Slice it and get it toasted before eating
 
As a nut substitute 
 
Now the taste of these baked products can be enhanced to a great extent when they have a sprinkling of nuts. But unfortunately, this would not agree with people who have nut allergies. However, we can again rely on our trustworthy friend Sesame to serve as a replacement. These pearly seeds with crunchy flavors can be used in place of nuts in many recipes. People suffer from allergies because of the way their immune system reacts to nut proteins. Sesame, on the other hand, does not disturb the immune system though it contains a good amount of proteins. It is also an excellent source of fiber and healthy fats. 
 
In a nutshell, we can now confidently say that sesame flour can be safely used as the basic ingredient for baking items like cakes, cookies, fudges, brownies, or even simple loaves of bread. Furthermore, if you are looking for a crunchy texture in your oven products take a handful of sesame seeds and use it unhesitatingly. Your dish would taste delicious and at the same time, you can satiate your taste buds without any fear of being plagued by allergies.  
 
 

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