It’s not just about carbs these days. Lately, more and more consumers are seeking to avoid gluten altogether. The good news is, when choosing Asian dishes, many of the meals are already gluten-free. While some Asian noodles are wheat-based, many are made of rice. And rice is always gluten-free.
If you check your grocer’s shelves, you can even buy gluten-free tamari sauce—since traditional soy sauce contains enough wheat to affect gluten-sensitive people.
If you’re wondering what Chinese dishes are gluten-free, you’ll have plenty of options. Remember: While there are some dishes with gluten you’ll want to avoid (you’re unlikely, for example, to find gluten-free Dim Sum) you’ll still have plenty of great choices on most Asian menus.
So, there’s no reason to worry, it’s easy to order meat, vegetables and rice, and— in many cases—even noodles, in an Asian restaurant. If you’re not certain if the noodles are rice or wheat-based, it’s always wise to ask. You might be surprised how many delicious gluten-free Asian menu options you’ll discover.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is Latin for the word “glue.” It is a protein group derived from some grains, including wheat and barley. And It’s called “glue” for a reason. It has elastic properties that allow dough to give and stretch, which is a good thing.
However, many people are sensitive to gluten and find ingesting foods with this protein group brings them various negative symptoms, including bloating, rashes, headaches, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
While some people are only mildly sensitive and choose to limit their gluten intake, others find its best to avoid the protein group altogether.
Awareness is key, and finding other grain options (such as rice) allows for a wide menu choice spectrum and prevents a feeling of dining deprivation.
Here’s an easy, delicious, gluten-free Asian recipe you can make at home
Spicy Asian Wings
Ingredients:
• 5 pounds of frozen wings (Defrosted)
• ⅓ cup quality balsamic vinegar
• ⅓ cup honey
• ⅓ cup of your favorite hot sauce
• 7 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
For Garnish:
Thinly sliced scallions
Toasted sesame seeds
Directions:
First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Then, place the chicken wings on a sheet pan. Be careful not to overlap the wings.
Cook them in the oven for approximately 30 minutes.
Remove the wings from the oven and put them in a large heat resistant bowl.
To make the marinade: In a separate large bowl, mix the vinegar, honey, hot sauce, and garlic.
Take ¼ cup of sauce and set it aside for later.
Pour half the sauce in the large bowl over the wings. Toss well, so the chicken is completely coated.
Now, Heat the grill to medium-high. Then cook the wings— turning frequenting so not to burn them—while continuously brushing them with extra marinade.
When the wings are cooked, place them in a fresh serving dish. Add the saved ¼ cup of sauce and give them a final toss.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions and serve. Enjoy!
For a family brunch or romantic Saturday night date, Casa Sensei offers an incredible waterfront setting, delicious Pan Asian and Latin American Fusion food, creative cocktails, and, of course, friendly service.
You can even arrive to your patio table via a charming gondola ride. We are located at 1200 East Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale. For reservations: give us a call at 954.994.1668 and we’ll set a table just for you. We’d be happy to show you all our delicious gluten-free menu items.
