Fourth of July – Celiac Style!

Whether you're heading off to the beach, a cookout at a friend or relative's house, or staying home, Fourth of July is often a difficult time for a celiac, with gluten hazards around every corner. This year, take time to prepare ahead of time, so you can spend more time relaxing, and less time stressing.

This year, A&J Bakery, in Cranston, and EvaRuth's, in Middletown, are both offering GLUTEN-FREE HAMBURG BUNS. Make sure you bring your own hot dogs, and that they are gluten-free. Some brands to choose from include Ball Park Fat Free All Beef Hotdogs, Hebrew National and Oscar Meyer. Read the labels on your condiments closely: many have wheat ingredients. If you are grilling, make sure you have cleaned your cooking surface carefully, and keep a special place aside for your GF burgers and dogs, or wrap them in foil before placing on the grill. Check the ingredients in marinades as well – many contain gluten. If you are toasting your buns on the grill, make sure it has been thoroughly cleaned. If you are sharing a grill with others who aren't eating gluten-free, be careful to use separate tongs and spatulas to turn the meat. Remember: wood and plastic are porous and can retain gluten, so use metal utensils that have been properly cleaned. Pick up a six-pack of GF beer or hard GF cider, and make sure to bring yourself a dessert, so you won't feel so bad when everyone is having their goodies. Watermelon is naturally GF, and is really refreshing on a hot day, and corn on the cob is another delicious cookout food that is naturally gluten-free.

With a little preparation and an insulated cooler, you can have a safe and enjoyable cookout, without feeling anxious or deprived.

So on this Independence Day, enjoy your independence from gluten, and say a heartfelt thanks to the men and women in uniform who work tirelessly and risk or sacrifice life and limb for your freedom every day. God Bless, and enjoy your holiday!

Hamburg Rolls from EvaRuth's Bakery in Middletown RI