A Guide to Gluten-Free and Gluten-Containing Indian Food
While gluten is not necessarily bad, some people may react negatively. Those with celiac disease are not allowed to consume gluten, even in the smallest amounts. This is why many people with celiac disease try to avoid it at all costs.
Avoiding gluten may sound like a nightmare because wouldn't that make food boring? Well, you would be surprised to hear that there is a diverse and wide range of food that do not contain gluten. In this article, we will discuss Indian food specifically and what dishes they have that do not contain gluten.
Does Indian Food Contain Gluten?
There is a common misconception that Indian food is automatically gluten-free. However, this is not always the case. While many traditional Indian dishes are naturally gluten-free, there are also a number of dishes that do contain gluten.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. It gives bread its chewy texture and is also used as a binding agent in many processed foods. For people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, even a small amount of gluten can cause serious health problems.
So, does Indian food contain gluten? The answer is yes and no. It all depends on the ingredients used and how the dish is prepared.
What Indian Food Does Not Contain Gluten?
Indian cuisine offers various gluten-free options for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Here are some of the most popular gluten-free Indian dishes:
1. Pongal
Pongal is a South Indian dish with rice, mung beans, and spices. It can be served as a main dish or as a side.
2. Sambar
Sambar is a hearty stew made with vegetables, tamarind, and spices. It is traditionally served with rice.
3. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish made with marinated chicken, spices, and yoghurt.
4. Paneer
Paneer is a type of fresh cheese that is popular in Indian cuisine.
5. Chapati (Made with Gram Flour)
This type of flatbread is made for dipping in different sauces. Traditionally, chapati is gluten-free; however, it is still best to ask to be sure as it can also be made with whole wheat flour.
What Indian Food Contains Gluten?
If you want to avoid gluten in your meals, then you aren't completely safe eating Indian food. While it can be complicated to determine which dishes will specifically contain gluten, below are some of the elements or things to look out for:
1. Fried Food
This sounds a little vague, but we mention this mainly due to cross-contamination. Most of the time, many people may reuse oils or pans that they fried in when making fried food. While the food may not necessarily contain gluten, it could touch items containing gluten.
2. Spices
Spices are naturally gluten-free, but some stores or restaurants may use them to prevent clumping. It might be best always to tell the restaurant staff that you cannot have anything with gluten.
3. Naan
This flatbread is often made with wheat flour, and it might be difficult to find a gluten-free version. If eating at an Indian restaurant, it is best to stay clear of the Naan if you can't consume gluten.
Conclusion
Indian food is diverse and can contain or not contain gluten, depending on the dish and the restaurant itself. If you are avoiding gluten for either health reasons or personal preference, it is always best to talk to the restaurant staff and be clear about what you need. This way, they can give you the best options. Being gluten-free doesn't have to be boring and you can enjoy diverse dishes without putting yourself at risk.
If you are seeking
Indian food in London, you can come to visit us at Tower Tandoori. We are one of the oldest, authentic Indian restaurants in London. Allow your taste buds to take a trip to India with us at Tower Tandoori.
