5 Delicious Gluten-Free Holiday Recipes You'll Love

Are you looking for gluten-free holiday recipes that are both delicious and simple to prepare? Here, we have curated a collection of five delectable gluten-free recipes perfect for the holiday season. Whether you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or simply wish to reduce gluten in your diet, these recipes will keep you in good cheer without compromising on taste or tradition.

Gluten-Free Turkey Stuffing

Stuffing, a holiday classic, doesn’t have to be off-limits for those avoiding gluten. Here’s how to make a delicious gluten-free version:

• 1 loaf of gluten-free bread, cubed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of vegetable or turkey broth
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
• 1 tsp each of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until they are soft and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cubed gluten-free bread with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Pour in the broth, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the bread absorbs the flavors.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is crispy.

🌟 Note: Always check the labels for hidden gluten in store-bought bread.

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies

Nothing says holiday like the spicy aroma of gingerbread cookies baking in the oven. Here’s how to make your own:

• 3 cups of gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 12 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup of molasses
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 large egg

Preparation:

1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a bowl.
2. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the molasses, water, and egg, then mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing well after each addition.
4. Divide dough in half, wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes and bake for 8-10 minutes.

Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Relish

This simple yet flavorful relish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 medium navel orange, peeled and seeded
• 3/4 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: walnuts or pecans

Preparation:

1. Place cranberries, orange, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not puréed.
2. Transfer to a serving dish. Stir in nuts if using.
3. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

A comforting Thanksgiving favorite, this green bean casserole is made with gluten-free ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can of gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1.5 cups of gluten-free French fried onions

Preparation:

1. Boil green beans in salted water until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix soup, milk, soy sauce, and pepper. Stir in the green beans and 2/3 cup of fried onions.
3. Pour into a greased casserole dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
4. Top with remaining onions and bake for 5 more minutes until golden brown.

Gluten-Free Maple Glazed Ham

A succulent ham glazed with the rich flavors of maple syrup is a holiday showstopper:

• 1 fully cooked spiral-sliced ham (about 7-10 pounds)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Combine maple syrup, sugar, mustard, vinegar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
3. Place ham in a roasting pan. Brush with some of the glaze.
4. Bake the ham, basting occasionally with the glaze, for about 20 minutes per pound or until heated through.

🔔 Note: Make sure to read the labels for ingredients like ham that might contain hidden gluten in processed versions.

Throughout the holiday season, ensuring you can enjoy meals that cater to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor is a joyous gift in itself. These recipes embrace traditional holiday flavors while adhering to a gluten-free diet, ensuring everyone can partake in the festivities. By utilizing the natural flavors of your ingredients, along with thoughtful substitutions for traditional elements, these dishes will bring comfort, satisfaction, and a celebration of culinary diversity to your holiday table.

Can I use gluten-free substitutes for recipes that traditionally contain gluten?

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Yes, with a few key ingredients like gluten-free flour blends, cornstarch, or xanthan gum, you can replicate many traditional recipes. Always ensure you check for cross-contamination and follow recipes closely to achieve the best results.

What are some common ingredients in store-bought products that might contain hidden gluten?

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Ingredients like maltodextrin, modified food starch, soy sauce, and certain processed meats can contain gluten. It’s vital to read labels carefully or opt for certified gluten-free products.

How can I ensure my kitchen is gluten-free for holiday cooking?

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Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cookware for gluten-free preparation. Clean surfaces thoroughly, store gluten-free items on higher shelves, and educate anyone helping in the kitchen about avoiding cross-contamination.