As food allergies become increasingly common, it’s important for chefs to adapt and create dishes that are safe for everyone to enjoy. In Europe, food allergies affect millions of people, making it crucial for restaurants and home cooks to have allergen-free recipes in their repertoire.
When it comes to creating allergen-free dishes, there are a few key ingredients to avoid. These include dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, gluten, and seafood. While it may seem daunting at first, with a little creativity and experimentation, it’s possible to create delicious meals without these allergens.
One great substitute for dairy is coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture and flavour to dishes. For eggs, try using aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, as a binding agent. And for gluten-free options, rice flour and almond flour are excellent alternatives.
Some of my favourite allergen-free recipes include a creamy coconut curry with chickpeas and vegetables, a tofu stir-fry with rice noodles, and a gluten-free chocolate cake with almond flour. These dishes are not only safe for those with allergies, but they are also packed with flavour and nutrients.
As a chef, it’s important to be mindful of food allergies and to always have allergen-free options available. With a little creativity and the right ingredients, it’s possible to create delicious and safe dishes for everyone to enjoy.