Looking for some healthy gluten and dairy-free recipes that the whole family can enjoy? We asked Meera Bhogal, who runs the healthy snack brand Meera’s Made from Scratch, to share some of her favourite recipes to make for a free-from family.
1. Chocolate and Avocado Mousse
Avocados are a rich source of nutrients; containing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. As well as being used to make the classic avocado toast you can also use them to make creamy chocolate desserts too. Combined with cacao powder, which has many health benefits such as increased energy levels and antioxidant properties, this mousse takes only 15 minutes and will please the whole family.
Make chocolate and avocado mousse recipe
2. Falafel
Chickpeas (the main ingredient in falafel) is often seen as a healthy option of protein and provide a great source of vitamins and minerals. Chickpeas themselves provide a great source of fibre, protein, folate, vitamin K, potassium and copper so if your child won’t eat them whole, why not make this tasty homemade falafel with them instead? It works great for wraps and lunches.
3. Bircher
A gluten-free recipe for a healthy breakfast cereal using several types of nuts and seeds, with honey as a natural sweetener. Nuts and seeds are a great idea for breakfast as they contain essential minerals such as magnesium, which help you stay energised throughout the day. This one can be made with coconut yoghurt or milk and made the night before then pop in the fridge for the next day.
4. Chia seed and berry pudding
Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are also gluten-free as well as being free from eggs, corn or dairy products. This makes them a great breakfast staple. If your little one is cautious about trying them then try making a fruity chia seed pudding instead.
The chia seed pudding is a dessert made of ground chia seeds mixed with coconut milk, mixed berries and desiccated coconut. It is very easy to make and works as breakfast or just an after school snack.
Make the chia seed and berry pudding
5. Chia and flaxseed bread
Another benefit of chia seeds is that they can be used in baking. This fibre packed bread recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free and is made in a food processor. It also uses flax seeds which are another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acid which is known to be essential for healthy brain function.
Make the chia and flaxseed bread
We hope these recipes have given you some inspiration to get creative in the kitchen. Let us know which one is your favourite!
