How to Prepare Your Household for a Coeliac Visitor (it’s easier than you might think!)
So, you've invited a friend or family member over who has coeliac / celiac disease, and now you're wondering what to do. Don’t panic! Hosting someone with coeliac disease can be a breeze—as long as you take a few precautions and make some time to prepare. These are our top tips for making your coeliac guest feel at home!
1. The Gluten-Free Clean Sweep
Step one: de-gluten your kitchen. This doesn’t mean wrapping your kitchen in plastic, but it does involve giving your counters a good clean and making sure gluten-filled crumbs aren't lurking around. Wipe down those surfaces, utensils, and any spots gluten might hide.
2. The Gluten-Free Shopping Spree
Next, let’s get shopping. You might be thinking, “does gluten hide in more than just bread?” Oh yes, my friend. Gluten can be sneaky. It’s hiding in things like soy sauce, salad dressings, and even that innocent-looking seasoning blend in your cupboard. So, grab your magnifying glass (or just a phone with internet) and check those labels. Look for certified gluten-free items and look out for any allergens (a number of countries require allergens like gluten to be listed in BOLD on packets and labels).
Tip: Lots of major supermarkets now have a “Free From” aisle so this is always a good place to start.
3. Cross-Contamination
This is where things can get tricky. Gluten loves to leave traces everywhere and unfortunately, coeliacs are very sensitive to gluten exposure! Here’s how to keep your guest out of harms way:
Toasters: Gluten crumbs line even the cleanest of toasters and it’s often recommended that coeliacs don’t use toasters which have been used for gluten products. A simple way to avoid contamination for your GF guest is to place their gluten free bread on some parchment paper on an oven tray - grill each side until toasted! Or you can check if your guest plans to take toaster bags with them - these are little pockets that keep your gluten free bread free from contamination in a gluten toaster.
Utensils: If you’ve been using your wooden spoon to stir regular pasta, it’s time to put it into retirement during your GF guests visit! Wooden spoons and cutting boards can keep traces of gluten lodged in them. Opt for metal, plastic, or silicone alternatives that can be thoroughly cleaned.
Condiments: Butter, jams, spreads and condiments… If you have these in your home and they’ve already been used / open, they might not be safe for your GF guest! Contamination is as simple as double dipping gluten crumbs onto an innocent block of butter. Let your guest know what products are new for their visit and which ones may be cross contaminated so that they can avoid any risks.
4. Let’s Talk Menu
Now, onto the fun part: feeding your coeliac guest! There are tons of delicious, naturally gluten-free options, and no, you don’t need to become a chef overnight. Here are a few ideas that are coeliac-approved and crowd-pleasers for everyone:
Tacos: Skip the flour tortillas and go for corn ones (checking packets / labels to make sure they’re GF). Load them up with all the toppings, and you’re golden.
Stir-fry: Rice is your gluten-free BFF. Throw in some veggies, protein and gluten-free tamari (not soy sauce!), and boom—you’re in business.
Gluten-free pizza or pasta: Many stores carry gluten-free versions of both, so you can keep it simple if that’s more your style.
Tip: If you’re serving gluten-filled and gluten-free foods at the same time, make sure you keep them separate and that any serving utensils for the GF dishes are kept specifically for them!
5. Snacks: The MVPs
If your guest is a snacker, make sure you’ve got some good gluten-free options lying around. Chips and salsa, veggies and dips, or popcorn are easy, no-fuss choices. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can grab some gluten-free crackers and cheese. Just remember to keep gluten-filled snacks away from these.
6. Dessert: The Grand Finale
If you want to win the hosting crown, whip up a gluten-free dessert. There are plenty of boxed mixes for brownies and cakes that taste just as good as their gluten-filled counterparts. If you’re making something from scratch, stick to naturally gluten-free treats like flourless chocolate cake or meringues.
7. Ask the Expert
If you’re still feeling unsure, just ask! Your guest will likely appreciate your efforts and can offer advice on their favorite safe brands or simple substitutions. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about their lifestyle—and help you prepare for other GF visitors you may host in the future!
Hosting a coeliac guest isn’t rocket science, but it does take some thought and care. By following these tips you’ll create a welcoming, gluten-free haven. Just remember: it’s all about keeping gluten separate and letting your guest relax!
