Sunday, March 6, 2011

First GIG of Metro Denver Quarterly Meeting

The new Metro Denver GIG chapter held their first quarterly meeting yesterday.  It was really great to meet new people that either have Celiacs, Gluten Intolerance, or just follow a gluten free diet for a better lifestyle.

The meeting was started with going around the room and having everyone introduce themselves and talk about when they started a gluten free diet and why.  It was interesting to hear the different stories and symptoms people have, as they are not always the same.  We had individuals that have been gluten free for up to 10 years and for as little as two months.  For individuals that kids with celiacs or gluten intolerance, it was suggested that having a card with your child's picture on it and the allergies is quite helpful for school. It helps the teacher identify your child and keep in mind the allergies if any food is to be brought into class.

Katie did a great presentation on coconut oil.  I had never heard to much about coconut oil before or even cooking with for that matter.  It has a much higher smoke point then olive oil and is just as good for you.  It's best to stick with a virgin, cold-pressed, and unrefined brand.  Artisana is an example of a good brand to buy.  Coconut oil also has a long shelf life and won't turn rancid as quick as other oils such as Safflower.

May is Celiac Awareness month and lots of events are coming up.  GIG National is currently working on the 2011 Chef to Plate Awareness Campaign.  It will be a week of restaurants sponsoring gluten-free eating, sort of like the Restaurant week that Denver has earlier in the year.

Interested in GIG?  Check out the information on www.meet-up.com!

Dinner this Week:

Sunday night is Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob.  I love my meatloaf that I have created!  I don't measure any of the ingredients, but it's a mix of A-1 Sauce, Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce, BBQ Sauce, minced dried onions, garlic powder, an egg, and GF bread crumbs.  Who says that meatloaf has to be tasteless!! :)

Weeknights will be a simple pasta dish - Quinoa shells, evoo, balsamic vinegar, pepper, italian diced tomatoes, and Dubliner cheese.  I'll also probably make a cornish game hen and this will give me left overs for lunch as well.