Indianapolis Gluten Free Food Allergy Fest and Ticket Giveaway

I am so excited to head to the Indianapolis Gluten Free Food Allergy Fest on September 23 and 24th. It will be my first time in Indiana and I cannot wait to connect with all of my gluten-free friends in Indy! I am also excited to try some gluten-free restaurants, so send me your favorites.

I have a jam-packed schedule while at the GFFA Fest. You can find me at the blogger booth both days, come hear my share my top gluten-free travel tips, or join me in a celiac roundtable discussion with the awesome team behind the Celiac Project Podcast.

My favorite part of these gluten-free events is meeting new people. I would love for you to come up and say hello during the GFFAFest. Don't be shy!

Tickets are on sale now. Use coupon code 10OFF to save 10% when you check out. You can also enter to win two tickets below.

Indianapolis Gluten Free Food Allergy Fest

WHEN

Saturday, September 23 - Sunday, September 24, 2017

10am to 4pm each day

WHERE

Indiana State Fairgrounds

Exposition Hall

1202 East 38th Street

Indianapolis, IN 46205

Lecture Stage: Saturday
11:30-12:20 pm – Celiac Project Podcast – All Things Gluten-Free Discussion
12:30-01:20 pm – Erin Smith – Gluten-Free Globetrotter™: How to Plan Your Gluten-Free Vacation

Lecture Stage: Sunday
12:30-01:20 pm – Celiac Project Podcast – All Things Gluten-Free Discussion
01:30-02:20 pm – Erin Smith – Gluten-Free Globetrotter™: How to Plan Your Gluten-Free Vacation

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Super Grain Pasta Dinner with GoGoQuinoa and Giveaway

Although this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own.

One of my go-to dinners is a hearty meat sauce with a gluten-free pasta that doesn't go limp in the pot. As we all know, GF pasta can be temperamental and quickly wind up being a gluey mess. When I was recently approached by GoGo Quinoa to give their Super Grains Fusilli Pasta a try. I jumped at the chance to cook up one of my favorite meals and test out this new pasta.

The brand new package of GoGo Quinoa Super Grain Fusilli Pasta

Super Grain Fusilli Pasta
Nutrition Facts

The brand new GoGo Quinoa Super Grain Fusilli Pasta is made from sorghum flours, organic white quinoa flour, organic amaranth flour, and organic chia flour. These pastas are certified organic, gluten-free, vegan, rice free and corn free. They are also part of the NON-GMO project. GoGoQuinoa is based in Canada and most of their ingredients are imported from Bolivia.

We should all be familiar with quinoa by now, but sorghum and amaranth are just starting to gain popularity in gluten-free products. Sorghum is rich in antioxidants, very nutritious, packed with carbohydrates, fiber, iron, protein, calcium, and phosphorus. Amaranth is another naturally gluten-free grain, high in protein, and lysine (an essential amino acid). Partner these with quinoa and you pack a healthy punch!

As you can see from the nutrition panel, this pasta is higher in protein than your average gluten-free pasta. It also contains iron, potassium, and calcium. While you might be watching your carb intake, you can feel good about the other ingredients that are essential to a healthy, balanced diet.

TIME TO EAT! 

I boiled up a big pot of water, added a little extra virgin olive oil, and added the Super Grain Fusilli pasta. I checked on the pasta about 5 minutes into cooking to avoid overcooking but it definitely needed more time. GoGo Quinoa suggests about 9 minutes to get the perfect al dente texture. I cooked for about 10 minutes to get the texture I prefer.

I really enjoyed this new GoGo Quinoa pasta. It was firm and didn't turn to mush. The pasta held up to the meat sauce which is really important. No one likes when their pasta absorbs all of the sauce and gets mushy. This Super Grain pasta has a nice taste, texture, and given the excellent nutritional benefits, I would definitely buy this pasta again.

Good news! This GoGo Quinoa Super Grain pasta is launching in Costco in Northern California in mid-September. This includes San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, Santa Cruz (where I live) and beyond. Be sure to visit the GoGo Quinoa website for a complete list of locations and to see a full list of their other products.


GoGo Quinoa Super Grain Fusilli Pasta with Erin's Turkey Meat Sauce

Pasta Cooking Instructions: 
Bring 3-4 liters of water to a boil. Add salt if desired. When the water is boiling well, add the pasta and cook for 9 minutes for an Al Dente texture while stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse promptly with cold water. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce and condiments.

Naked but cooked GoGoQuinoa Super Grain Fusilli Pasta

My meat sauce has no set instructions. I usually just brown turkey meat or ground beef, throw in a bunch of garlic, basil, spinach, and other spices, and then pour in a jar of my favorite tomato sauce. I let the pot simmer for about 30 minutes (if I can wait that long) and then add to my pasta. If I have it on hand, I will top with shredded cheese and then dig in. I think I could seriously eat pasta every day and not get bored. I am sure my waistline would disagree with that life choice. ha!

Pasta with meat sauce... DINNER!

In addition to pasta, GoGo Quinoa has a full line of quinoa-based products including cookies, pancake mix, cake mix, and quinoa flour. They also have some really interesting products that I am excited to try like lentil flakes and quinoa flakes. I see some veggie patty experimentation in my future. To learn more, please visit www.gogoquinoa.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Do you want to win your very own GoGo Quinoa Super Grain Pasta? Enter to win below! All entries must be submitted by September 1st. 

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Win Two Tickets to the GFFAFest in Portland This Weekend

I can't believe it is almost October and that I am heading back to Portland this weekend for the first time in more than 2 years. I used to go to Portland, Oregon regularly for work every four to six weeks from New York City for THREE YEARS. To say this burned me out would be an understatement! Now that my work Portland is in the past, fun Portland is only two days away. I can't wait to eat my way through one of my most favorite gluten-free friendly cities in the world.

I am speaking at the Gluten-Free Food Allergy Fest both Saturday and Sunday. Join me at 10:30am to hear all about my top gluten-free travel tips and how to navigate locally and beyond while maintaining a gluten-free diet. I will also be at blogger booth #331 both days. Please stop by and say hello. I would love to meet you!

Want to win two tickets to this weekend's event? Enter below! Don't delay. The giveaway ends on Thursday at 6pm EST.

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Win It Wednesday: Gluten-Free Pretzel Crisps

If you aren't following me on Instagram, you should be! I take pictures of my gluten-free food, my travels across the globe, and much more. I also host giveaways that are Instagram only.

Today's giveaway is a three-pack of gluten-free Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps including GF Original Pretzel Crisps, GF Original Minis and GF Salted Caramel Minis. I happen to know from personal experience that the salted caramels are so yummy. (crunch, crunch, crunch).

These pretzels are baked and certified gluten-free. Please note: The GF Pretzel Crisps line is not manufactured in a dedicated GF facility, but the machines are thoroughly cleaned to meet all of GFCO’s strict manufacturing guidelines.

Do you want to win? Follow me on Instagram* at @glutenfreeglobetrotter and enter to win today by tagging a friend!

Learn more about the gluten-free options from Pretzel Crisps here:

@PretzelCrisps

Instagram.com/PretzelCrisps     

Facebook.com/PretzelCrisps

Today's giveaway is a yummy one. @pretzelcrisps is giving away three bags of #glutenfree pretzels to one winner. To enter: follow @pretzelcrisps on Instagram AND tag a friend below. Good luck! #whatceliacseat #glutenfreefood #giveaway

A photo posted by Erin Smith (@glutenfreeglobetrotter) on Mar 2, 2016 at 11:14am PST

No Instagram? No problem! Leave a comment below and tell me which gluten-free Pretzel Crisps flavor you are most interested in! Don't forget to leave an email so I can contact you if you are the winner.

Winners will be chose using Random.org on March 8, 2016.

Win It Wednesday: Enjoy Life Foods Valentine's Day Gift

Yes, my posting over the past two months has been sporadic, but it doesn't mean I love and appreciate all of my readers. In order to share my appreciation for you all, I am kicking off a new series called "Win It Wednesday." I have done giveaways in the past and they are always super popular. Now, this is going to be a regular feature on my website!

The first Win It Wednesday gift is a Valentine’s Day Sweet Freely Box stocked with Enjoy Life Foods Pancake & Waffle Mix, Dark Chocolate Morsels, a FREE product coupon and a heart-shaped pancake stencil! Enjoy Life products are free of the top 8 allergens and made in a dedicated gluten-free facility. This prize pack is the perfect way to show your love for your favorite gluten-free person!

You can enter by tagging @enjoylifefoods with your favorite allergy-friendly Valentine’s Day treat using #SweetFreely on  Instagram. Enter by 2/14 at 11:59 PM PST.

You can also enter through my Gluten-Free Fun Rafflecopter widget below. A winner will be chose on Valentine's Day!

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Canyon Bakehouse Salted Caramel Brownie Trifles and HUGE Giveaway

When Canyon Bakehouse approached me about a HUGE reader giveaway and a delicious recipe, I couldn't say no. They have an awesome line of gluten-free products that are all delicious and they want to give you ALL of them. This would be a perfect prize to win right around the holidays. It's one of the best gluten-free gift packages ever! I am a big fan of their entire product line and appreciate their outreach to the gluten-free community. The Canyon Bakehouse staff kept me well fed at the GFAF Fest in Connecticut last month!

The brownie bites are some of my favorite desserts ever and they don't last longer than a day in my house. When I saw this recipe, I was drooling on my keyboard! I might have to try making these for our Christmas dessert.

Salted Caramel Brownie Bite Mini Trifles
Recipe created by Lauren Gaskill, Making Life Sweet

DIRECTIONS

For the caramel sauce:
2 cups organic unrefined white sugar or cane sugar
½ cup water
¼ cup real maple syrup
½ cup coconut milk, full fat
2 tablespoons butter
Pinch of sea salt

For the coconut whipped cream:
1 14-ounce can full fat coconut milk
¾-1 cup cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For serving:
1 package Canyon Bakehouse Gluten Free Brownie Bites, crumbled
¼ cup smashed Gluten Free chocolate cream sandwiches, cream removed (cookie pieces only)
Mini cordial glasses

INSTRUCTIONS

For the caramel sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the sugar, maple syrup and water to a boil, stirring well until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer over low heat until the syrup water is a deep amber color, about 20-25 minutes.

Remove caramel sauce from heat. Stir in the coconut milk, butter and salt until combined. Let cool slightly before using.

For the coconut whipped cream:
Chill coconut milk in the fridge for at least eight hours. Remove the can from the fridge and carefully remove the lid without tipping or shaking the can. Scrape out the top, thickened cream and discard the liquid.

Place cream in a medium mixing bowl and beat for 30 seconds with a mixer until creamy. Add in vanilla and powdered sugar and mix until creamy and smooth - about 1-2 minutes.

To assemble the trifles:
Place about 1 tablespoon of brownie bites at the bottom of each cordial glass. Evenly pipe or spoon a layer of coconut whipped cream onto each brownie. Add a layer of caramel sauce and then another layer of brownie and coconut cream. Repeats layers. Serve immediately.

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New Jersey GFAF Expo Ticket Giveaway

This coming weekend is the Gluten and Allergen Friendly Expo in Secaucus, New Jersey.  This annual event is a great way to try new gluten-free product, meet your fellow celiac community, and eat without worry. Attendees get FREE samples, coupons and discounts from 100+ gluten-free brands, FREE classes, a FREE goodie bag, and a FREE 1-year subscription to Delight Gluten Free Magazine with advance online ticket purchase!

The Expo will feature over 100 gluten-free vendors sampling and selling delicious products. All products at the show are gluten free, but many vendors will also showcase items free from the top eight allergens. The Expo also includes a dedicated area featuring nut-free products. In addition to trying delicious samples, guests can attend free lectures, connect with gluten and allergen-free restaurants, vendors, stores, associated non-profits and much more! Click here for the full presentation schedule.

Tickets are available for purchase both online and at the door. If you want to save 30% on your ticket price, click HERE and enter code MEETUP30NJ on check-out.

I am also giving away two pairs of tickets. Enter to win below and bring a friend or family member! Each winner will receive two free tickets to the day of your choice.

See you there!

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Canyon Bakehouse Review and Giveaway

When I get a really delicious gluten-free product, I either eat the whole thing immediately or I ration it out to last as long as possible. My June delivery of the newest products in the Canyon Bakehouse gluten-free line was a little bit of both. I received Brownie Bites, Plain Bagels, and Everything Bagels.

I tried to make the new Brownie Bites last but that did not happen. My boyfriend Victor and I devoured them. They were soft, delicious, chocolatey goodness. The bagels, on the other hand, were rationed out because I just couldn't eat eight bagels in a row. Being a New Yorker and a carb-freak, the plain bagels were perfect to fill my carb cravings. They were thick but not too dense and made a great addition to breakfast. My favorite way to eat them is with a little almond butter or with some cheese and turkey bacon. So yum!

According to Canyon Bakehouse:

Similar to their existing gluten-free breads, the new brownies and bagels are made with 100% whole grains and have a taste and texture just like “real” bagels and brownies. 

• Made with 100% whole grains and real food ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, organic agave and eggs.

• No artificial additives and fillers.

•  Certified Gluten-Free and do not contain dairy, soy or nuts.

• No GMOs.

Canyon Bakehouse co-founder Christi Skow, who inspired the company’s creation when she was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2007 explained that, “the taste and texture are so similar to ‘real’ bagels and brownies no one will even know they’re gluten free.  Our bagels and brownies are perfect for families and households with gluten-free and gluten-full eaters since they will no longer need to buy two sets of these staples.” 

All three new products are now available for online purchase and at Target stores nationwide.

Prior to receiving these samples, I can't remember ever eating Canyon Bakehouse. Now that they are on my radar, I am starting to notice their product line in many local markets. I would definitely buy the bagels and brownie bites again. The products are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility and use no GMO ingredients. Thank you Canyon Bakehouse for the delicious samples.

Want to win a prize pack of the three newest Canyon Bakehouse products? It's simple, just enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.




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Celiac Awareness Month SuperSeedz Giveaway

I am excited to host another giveaway in honor of Celiac Awareness Month. This time, I am giving away SuperSeedz!

SuperSeedz are gourmet, shell-free pumpkin seeds that come in a variety of different flavors. They are also allergen friendly, peanut-free, tree nut-free, egg-free, dairy-free, fish-free, shellfish-free, soy-free and made with gluten-free ingredients. Flavors include "Really Naked, Sea Salt, Cinnamon and Sugar, Coco Joe, Tomato Italiano, Curious Curry, Somewhat Spicy and Super Spicy."

I like these SuperSeedz for a variety of reasons. First off, portability. They come in a resealable pack in both 1oz travel packs and 5 oz larger packs. As a traveler, I love this option. I can throw a couple of the travel packs in my carryon bag and have a nutritious gluten-free snack to go! The second reason I like these SuperSeedz is because of the flavor variety. I liked the sea salt the best, but also enjoyed the Tomato Italiano which would make a GREAT salad topper. The "Somewhat Spicy" was a little too spicy for me and I didn't even dare to try the "Super Spicy." I am the girl that sweats eating mild Thai food, so I stick to non-spicy. If you like a little heat, go for it! Lastly, these seeds are high in protein. You know I am on a kick to find higher protein travel snacks and these are perfect!

The product is available at numerous national retail outlets like Costco, Whole Foods and others as well as online at SuperSeedz.com. You can also buy most flavors online at Amazon.com.

You can enter to win your own sample packs of SuperSeedz below. Don't delay, the giveaway is only live until Friday!

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Celebrate Celiac With Simple Mills

Simple Mills has recently gone through a package rebranding and also launched three new products to its popular line of almond flour based baking mixes, including Pizza Dough Mix, Pancake and Waffle Mix, and Vanilla Cake Mix. The thing I love about Simple Mills is that their mixes are made from almond flour and other simple ingredients and preparation is easy. I am someone who is slightly baking challenged, so the easier the recipe the better! Simple Mills is easy to make and full of flavor.

I tried some of their almond flour muffin mix in December and loved the banana muffins so I was excited to try the new pancake and waffle mix this month. The new, naturally gluten-free Pancake and Waffle Mix from Simple Mills has 8 simple ingredients: Almonds, Arrowroot Powder, Organic Coconut Sugar, Organic Coconut Flour, Cream of Tartar, Aluminum-Free Baking Soda, Sea Salt. These ingredients are 100% gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. They are also free of refined sugar and emulsifiers and gums. Obviously, this isn't a good mix for someone that has a tree nut allergy but perfect for those who are gluten-free or paleo.

I am a big pancake fan so sampling this new mix was a perfect opportunity for me. The pancakes were thinner than I expected, but still good. I love big pancakes so I prepared the recipe for four which made me two giant pancakes. I added sliced bananas on top and this made for a healthy and yummy breakfast. The almonds add a good protein punch to these pancakes so I stayed full much longer than I do with "regular" GF flour pancakes.

I want you to try your own Simple Mills pancakes so I am giving away one box. Everyone should celebrate Celiac Awareness Month with a little morning sweetness. Enter below to win!

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Walkers Shortbread Goes Gluten-Free

IT'S FINALLY HERE!!

If you read other gluten-free blogs, you might have already heard this news. Just in case you missed it, the famous Walkers Shortbread has introduced three, brand-new gluten-free options to their shortbread line.

When I was in Scotland, Walkers Shortbread was EVERYWHERE! I guess I never noticed it at home before since I couldn't eat it. My mom brought home tins of this Scottish shortbread as gifts for family and friends. She was raving about how good it was, but as a celiac I could not enjoy this traditional Scottish shortbread. Until now! 

According to the Walkers Shortbread website, "Our shortbreads contain the same butter and sugar content as our regular shortbreads, but the wheat flour is replaced by a blend of rice flour, maize flour, and potato starch. As is the Walkers custom, they contain no artificial flavorings, colorings, or preservatives." In addition when I asked about the production of the new gluten-free shortbread, the Walkers representative said The gluten free line is made in a dedicated part of the Scotland facility."

The new gluten free line includes three shortbreads:

• Gluten Free Pure Butter Shortbread: The classic pure butter gluten free shortbread offers a crumbly "melt-in-your-mouth" texture and all butter taste.
• Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Shortbread: A generous helping of chocolate chips provides a rich and luxurious complement to this classic shortbread.
• Gluten Free Ginger & Lemon Shortbread: This crumbly shortbread combines the best of traditional Scottish baking with the exotic tang of Lemon and Stem Ginger.

I wanted to stick with the original so I tried a sample of the Gluten Free Pure Butter Shortbread. This new gluten-free cookie from Walkers did not disappoint. With a cup of tea, this was the perfect dessert or afternoon snack or both in my case! It's really delicious.

Walkers Gluten Free Shortbread will appear at retailers across the country in the coming months and is available for purchase online at http://us.walkersshortbread.com/.

  

Or you can win your very own box of gluten-free Walkers Shortbread right here! Enter by leaving a comment at the end of this post or through the Rafflecopter widget below. Don't delay, giveaway ends on February 6th.

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Note: Walkers Shortbread sent me this complimentary box for a review. Views expressed in this post are my own. 

Gluten-Free on a Budget

I was thrilled when Chandice Probst of Gluten-Free Frenzy and Gluten-Free Calendar asked if I wanted an advanced copy of her new cookbook, Gluten-Free on a Budget and to be part of her blog tour. Chandice is one of those gluten-free people I feel like I have known forever even though I only met her twice in person. (Um, Chandice, how is this possible?!) Her positive attitude and her tireless efforts within the gluten-free community make her one of the gluten-free superstars in my book. Add on top of her busy gluten-free schedule, three kids and a move to Utah and I swear this woman doesn't sleep!

Gluten-Free on a Budget is a great resource for a hungry family. Chandice and her mom Tana Besendorfer put together a book full of family, budget-friendly recipes that are all 100% gluten-free. Tana's "Take it up a Notch" tips give some great ideas of how to make the most of your recipe and go easy on your wallet. The recipes range from easy, my style of cooking, like the Bacon Spinach Tomato Frittata on page 35 and the Peanut Butter Delights on page 195 to the more complex baking recipes like the Banana Black-Bottom Pie on page 171.

Chandice and Tana are both gluten-free so this cookbook not only comes from the heart but also comes from the experience of living with Celiac Disease. It is great to see a dynamic duo like these two put together this labor of love. You can tell these are all recipes they enjoy in their own homes that they want to share with the gluten-free community. I highly recommend Gluten-Free on a Budget for your gluten-free kitchen.

I was very flattered when Chandice asked me to give a quote for her new book. I love helping out a gluten-free friend but I also not-so-secretly love seeing my name in print. Check it out!

You can buy Gluten-Free on a Budget by Chandice Probst and Tana Besendorfer today on Amazon and at your local bookstore.

You can also enter to win a free copy via Rafflecopter below. A winner will be chosen on Monday, January 26, 2015.


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Real Jules, Real Good Giveaway!

Jules Shepard is one of those gluten-free people that I feel like I have "known" forever. I cannot remember exactly when I started following Jules on social media, but I always admired her advocacy with 1in133.org and her entrepreneurial spirit with her personal line of gluten-free baking flours and mixes. I finally met Jules a few years ago at ExpoEast in Baltimore and then saw her again here in NYC over some cocktails with a group of fabulous gluten-free ladies. It's been a while since I've seen her in person, but Jules is one of those people I keep up-to-date with thanks to social media. 

Jules had a rough year with her business and there might be some confusion between her business and another one using the same name. I am writing today to help point you in the right direction. You can find The Real Jules at www.gfjules.com. Look for her super cute new logo!

Jules was kind enough to send me a free box of her gluten-free sugar cookie mix as well as her pancake and waffle mixes. These mixes are also free of the top 8 food allergies, are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility, and are now available in two sizes. I am definitely making the sugar cookies for Christmas. I don't have a cookie cutter, nor do I have a rolling pin so my plan is to make the mix according to the package. From there, I chill in the fridge in the shape of a log, and make gluten-free slice & bake cookies. Fingers crossed that it works! As for the pancakes, I save my pancake days for the weekends so I know what I am eating for breakfast on Saturday. Stay tuned for reviews! 

Do you want to win your very own gluten-free mix from the Real Jules? If so, just enter below and be sure to visit Jules on her Facebook page, Instagram, and Twitter. Show Jules your support! Don't delay, the giveaway is only open until Sunday!


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Note: GFJules sent me these complimentary boxes of her product for review. Views expressed in this post are my own. 

Schar Gluten-Free Holiday Dinner Giveaway

Enter to win this Schar Holiday Dinner!

Do you want to win a gluten-free holiday dinner from Schar? I am thrilled to be a supporter of this Schar giveaway where you can when croutons for your salad, penne and fusilli for your pasta plates, and ladyfingers for your dessert, all 100% gluten-free! Tis the season for Gluten-Free Fun!

Visit Schar on Facebook today. 

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Simple Gluten-Free Baking and Giveaway with Simple Mills

I am a simple cook. If a recipe has too many ingredients and too many steps, I run away as fast as I can. I am only up for a complicated cooking challenge about once or twice a year. When it comes to baking, forget it. I'm even more intimidated by baking websites that weigh flour, ask me to sift, and ask me to use contraptions I could never fit in my New York City apartment. So when a gluten-free mix that is easy to bake comes across my radar, I am thrilled.

Enter Simple Mills.

This baking mix is gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, corn-free, paleo-friendly, non-GMO, and has a low-glycemic index. Made from a very simple list of ingredients, with almond flour as it's base, the Simple Mills baking mixes are quite easy to use but their flavors are far from simple. Their mixes include banana muffin, chocolate muffin, pumpkin muffin, chocolate chip cookies, and focaccia and sandwich bread mix.

Simple Mills kindly sent me a sample of the banana muffin mix which I made yesterday morning. Ok, now here is where my type of baking comes into play. One mix, one egg, 2/3 cup of water, and one tablespoon of oil. THAT IS IT! So easy to make that even this fearful baker could bake these little muffins.

Baking made Simple (Mills)! 

I opted to make the mini muffins because when it comes to delicious baked goods I have very little willpower to stop eating. I figured the mini muffins would help me with better portion control. Since these were smaller than normal muffins, I only baked these around 12 minutes. I may or may not have eaten three minis immediately. The rest made it to the rack to cool.

The lovely little muffins

I highly recommend this baking mix. It is easy to make, delicious, and totally gluten-free and made in a gluten-free facility. I will definitely use these gluten-free mixes again!

Don't delay, buy today! 

You can look for Simple Mills mixes in stores or buy your own Simple Mills mixes on Amazon using the links below. Enter code GFREEFUN when placing your Amazon order to get 10% off now through December 18.

• Simple Mills Almond Flour Muffin Mixes 9.4 oz Variety Pack (Pack of 3) 
• Simple Mills Almond Flour Focaccia and Sandwich Bread Mix, 9.4 Ounce Bags (Pack of 3)
• Simple Mills Banana Almond Flour Muffin Mix, 9.4 Ounce Bags (Pack of 3) 
• Simple Mills Pumpkin Almond Flour Muffin Mix, 9.4 Ounce Bags (Pack of 3)
• Simple Mills Chocolate Almond Flour Muffin Mix, 9.4 Ounce Bags (Pack of 3)
• Simple Mills Almond Flour Cookie Mix, 7.4 Ounce Bags (Pack of 3)

You can also enter to win!

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Note: Simple Mills sent me a complimentary sample package of their mix. Views expressed in this post are my own. 

Tate's Bake Shop Gluten-Free Review and Holiday Giveaway

When Tate's Bake Shop asks if you want a sample of their holiday gift basket full of gluten-free goodies, you say YES! I am a huge fan of the Tate's Bake Shop Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip cookies, so I was super excited when Tate's sent me their gluten-free holiday basket. It took all of my willpower in the world not to tear the packages open and devour everything.

For those of you not familiar with Tate's Bake Shop is Hamptons (NY)-based company with a dedicated gluten-free facility. They use only the freshest premium ingredients, they test their products for gluten at a national lab, and they are certified by the Celiac Sprue Association. Tate's Bake Shop products are also super delicious and would make an excellent gift for anyone this holiday season.

The gluten-free treats from Tate's Bake Shop are the type of dessert you bring with you to a holiday party and do not tell anyone they are gluten-free. Then, once everyone says how delicious the cookies are, you tell them they are gluten-free and they don't believe you. Yes, they are that good! I highly recommend these products but keep the GF chocolate chip cookies for yourself. :-)

I am very excited to offer my readers at 20% discount on any of the gluten-free gift baskets from www.TatesBakeShop.com when you use coupon code gfblog14 valid through December 16, 2014. In addition, one VERY lucky reader will win one Tate's Gluten-Free Holiday Gift Basket which includes:

• One 8oz bag of Tate's Bake Shop GF Chocolate Chip Cookies 
• One 8oz bag of Tate's Bake Shop GF Double Chocolate Chip Cookies 
• One 8oz bag of Tate's Bake Shop GF Ginger Zinger Cookies 
• One of Tate's Bake Shop GF Brownies 
• One of Tate's Bake Shop GF Blondies 
• Tate's Bake Shop GF Chocolate Chip Cookie Peppermint Bark 

You can learn more about Tate's Bake Shop and find drool-worthy pictures on 

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

Do you want to win the Tate's Gluten-Free Holiday Basket? Enter to win today. One lucky winner will be chosen by random on November 30, 2014. See below for details.


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Disclosure: Financial compensation was not received for this post. The Tate's Bake Shop Gluten-Free gift basket was sent to me by the company. Opinions expressed here are my own. 

Pretzel Perfection Holiday Clusters Review and Giveaway

When I was first approached by Pretzel Perfection, I was skeptical. A gourmet pretzel snack that was also gluten-free? Unheard of in our community, until now! Pretzel Perfection makes a line of pretzel snacks that are all 100% certified gluten-free and made with all-natural ingredients in a dedicated gluten-free facility. In addition, no preservatives or artificial colors have been added.

Their current product line includes Holiday Clusters available in eggnog, peppermint, and salted caramel; Gluten Free Twice-Baked Pretzel Sticks available in Chipotle BBQ Sticks,
Garlic Herb Sticks, Lemon Toffee Sticks, Stoneground Mustard Sticks, and Tomato Basil Sticks; and Gluten-Free Clusters Pacific Trail Clusters, Sea Salt and Caramel Clusters, Spicy Cherry Pistachio Clusters, and Ultimate Clusters. The prices start at $3.75 and go up from there.

Pretzel Perfection was kind enough to send me a free sample of their Holiday Salted Caramel Clusters a few weeks ago. I was very curious to try these since I think they are unlike any other gluten-free pretzel treats on the market. These salted caramel clusters were coated with dark chocolate (which I am not really a fan of) but the balance of bitterness from the dark chocolate, sweetness from the caramel, and saltiness made for a yummy treat. I polished off these snacks in only two days, so that tells you right there that I liked these gourmet pretzel treats! (Moderation is clearly not in my vocabulary around the holidays!)

A photo of the Salted Caramel Clusters package, ingredients, and the cluster itself

These are definitely a special occasion treat and would make a very nice gift for someone this holiday season. Want to win your very own box of Salted Caramel Clusters from Pretzel Perfection? Enter below through the Rafflecopter widget or leave a comment (or do both!)  You can also buy your own Pretzel Perfection treats at http://pretzelperfection.com/

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Jonty Jacobs: Gluten-Free Beef Products (But Don't Call It Jerky!)

Every season, I look forward to the NYC Food Fete events coordinated by Jeff Davis. Jeff works tirelessly to find the most interesting products on the market and brings together the best and brightest food, health, and fitness media in New York City. I am always honored to be a part of this event.

At each Food Fete, there are more and more vendors showcasing gluten-free products. For those who do not sell gluten-free food, they certainly have more awareness than ever before. I am always on the look out for interesting food at Food Fete and when I found Jonty Jacobs I feel like I found something special.

Jonty Jacobs create really interesting and delicious dried beef products based on traditional South African drying process. The two main products from Jonty Jacobs are Biltong (dried beef slices) and Droewors (dried beef sausage), both traditional beef delicacies which originated in South Africa.

According to their website, "Jonty Jacobs was founded by Monique Daniels, a South African raised in Australia who relocated to New York in 2010. As a meat enthusiast who was raised on delicious, natural biltong made by a family friend in Sydney, Monique was disappointed with the quality and taste of cured beef products made in the US. While having dinner with her sister and husband one night, the crazy idea came to her that she should create her own Biltong brand which would bring the best tasting, natural, chemical and preservative free Biltong to the US market."

I tend to shy away from regular beef jerky because it is full of preservatives, chemicals, and additives. Jonty Jacobs Biltong and Droewors DO NOT contain chemicals and additives and are not cured using sodium nitrate. In addition, the products are gluten-free, have no MSG, and no chemicals. I am always on the hunt for high-protein snacks and these hit the jackpot. At 14g and 16g grams a serving, these are the perfect punch of protein and flavor.

So the taste??? WHOA.

The Droewors are delicious. I came home from Food Fete with one bag and had to ration them out to myself at only one per day. Not an easy task when you are eating something this good. I had a friend try these and he quickly dipped his hand in for seconds. I smacked his hand and snatched the bag away quickly. I wanted to savor and save the remaining Droewors and tucked them back into the fridge. Dipped in the Jonty Jacobs spice blend, and you have yourself a nutritious and extremely flavorful treat.

Beef Biltong (Dried Beef) Traditional Original Ingredients: Beef, Salt, Brown Sugar, Vinegar, and Spice Blend

All Natural Droewors (Dried Beef Sausage) Ingredients: Beef, Vinegar, Salt, Brown Sugar, Natural Flavorings, Lamb Casings





Right now, Brooklyn-based Jonty Jacobs is making its way around local New York City artisan markets such as Hester Street Fair but you can also buy their products online to have them shipped directly to your door. Prices start at $7.99 for a 2 ounce bag and $9.99 for the spice blend. Shop now at JontyJacobs.com!

Holiday Giveaway! One lucky winner will get a sample of Jonty Jacbos sent right to their door. Simple use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter. You can also leave a comment below. Don't delay, entries must be submitted by Friday.

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The Healthy Apple Holiday Cookbook Giveaway

My friend Amie, aka The Healthy Apple, launched her first e-cookbook just in time for the holidays. The book is called "The Healthy Apple’s Holiday Cookbook: 80 Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Soy-Free and Peanut-Free Recipes Including Grain-Free/Paleo Desserts."

In this cookbook, you will find easy appetizers, savory sides, main dishes, desserts, drinks, and even leftover and breakfast recipes. There are even more than 50 vegan recipes in this holiday cookbook. This will be a great resource for planning for your holiday meals for those on restricted diets. Amie's recipes are always full of flavor, but eliminate GI culprits like gluten, dairy, and soy.

You can buy the e-cookbook directly from The Healthy Apple website for $13.99. If you purchase the book before December 23rd, you will be entered to win a case of Crunchmaster Crackers and $25 worth of Enjoy Life Food.

You can also enter to win buy using the Rafflecopter entries below and leaving a comment. Don't forget to include your email address in the comments section! The contest entries end on December 9th! Winner will be emailed on the 10th and Amie will send you a copy to her e-cookbook directly.

GOOD LUCK!

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New Gluten-Free Cookbook Review and Giveaway

Last month, I was sent a free copy of You Still Won’t Believe It’s Gluten-Free!: 200 More Delicious, Foolproof Recipes You and Your Whole Family Will Love by Roben Ryberg. Roben is the author of five gluten-free cookbooks and one of her goals is "how to make gluten-free food taste great."

The new cookbook has a foreword by Dr. Peter Green of the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University which gives an overview of gluten and Celiac Disease. The cookbook also  includes recipes for appetizers, breads, muffins, soups, entrees, vegetables and tons of cake recipes.

I admittedly am not a baker, so many of the recipes for breads, muffins, and cakes were too complicated for me. I prefer the entree and side dish recipes which were much less complex and required fewer ingredients. I really want to try making the Sofrito Pork Chops (page 143) with a side of Plantain Fries (page 23) for dinner one night soon.

Giveaway: You can win you very own copy of Roben's new book by leaving a comment with your email address below. Additional entries available by following me on Facebook and Twitter using the Rafflecopter entry below. A winner will be chosen randomly on Friday, August 16th at 1pm EST!


Financial compensation was not received for this post. A sample book was gifted from the company. Opinions expressed here are my own. 

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