Is Lactose Free the Same as Dairy Free?
Last updated on Oct 17, 2022Kevin SinghelOne of the most prominent foodservice trends in recent years has been the introduction of lactose-free, dairy-free, and non-dairy products into many people's diets. Whether it be for medical, environmental, or personal reasons, many people are cutting dairy out of their diets and looking for alternatives. Understanding and utilizing dairy replacements not only keep your customers safe from potentially harmful allergens but also allows you to expand your menu to cater to alternative diets. Below, we explain what the labels lactose-free, dairy-free, and non-dairy mean and how they differ from one another.
Shop All Dairy-Free ProductsDairy Alternative Labels
Check out the differences between these common dairy alternative labels in our comparison below:
Lactose Free vs Dairy Free
The biggest difference between lactose-free and dairy-free is the presence of dairy in the ingredients. Lactose-free foods are made from real dairy products, while dairy-free products are made from dairy alternatives. Those that are looking to avoid dairy should steer clear of lactose-free foods.
What Is Lactose Free?
Lactose-free products still contain milk or other dairy products, just without the lactose. Lactose is a certain type of sugar that is found in dairy products and is hard to digest for some people. As a result, those who can’t digest lactose but don’t have a dairy allergy or an alternative diet like veganism will typically opt for lactose-free dairy products.
What Is Lactose Free Milk?
Lactose-free milk is milk that does not contain any lactose content. To achieve this, an enzyme known as lactase is added to the milk. Lactase is designed to break down lactose into simple sugars, making it easier to digest.
What Is Lactose Intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is the inability to properly digest the lactose found in dairy products. Lactose intolerance leads to indigestion and stomach problems after consumption, therefore it is recommended that individuals with the intolerance avoid any products that contain lactose. Lactose-free and dairy-free products are both fantastic substitutes that allow you to cut lactose out of your diet while still enjoying the taste and nutrients of milk.
What Is Dairy Free?
Dairy-free products are dairy alternatives that do not contain dairy from animal products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, lactose-free milk, and fortified soy milk and yogurt. These products are created from foods like nuts and seeds, containing no dairy or lactose. Due to the nature of these products, they are popular among those with dairy allergies, allowing them to enjoy a great milk substitute. Dairy-free products are key for alternative diets like veganism because it allows vegans to get the nutrients that dairy products provide without having to consume animal products.
What Is Dairy Free Milk?
Dairy-free milk does not contain any milk or milk products at all. Instead, dairy-free milk is usually plant-based or nut-based. These dairy-free kinds of milk are also fortified with vitamins and minerals just like dairy milk is, meaning you can still enjoy milk’s fantastic nutrient profile. If you’re thinking of utilizing dairy-free milk, here are some of the most popular types of dairy-free milk on the market today.
- Coconut Milk - Coconut milk is made from shredded coconut meat that is mixed with water. There are many different types of coconut milk with varying fat levels, making it a versatile dairy substitute.
- Almond Milk - Made from whole almonds, almond milk sports a sweet and nutty flavor and a creamy texture that is similar to cow’s milk.
- Oat Milk - This alternative is made by mixing oats and water, but it contains several other added ingredients to mimic the flavor of dairy milk.
- Soy Milk - Soy Milk is made from soybeans and soy isolate which provides a mild flavor profile with a creamy texture.
Dairy Free vs Non Dairy
Dairy-free products mean there are no dairy ingredients at all in the food, so it is still a vegan option. On the other hand, non-dairy products can still contain some milk products, meaning it's possible for a non-dairy product to not be vegan. Since the non-dairy labels still allow for milk derivatives, it’s common to find milk products in items like non-dairy coffee creamers and non-dairy cheeses. If you’re looking for a dairy alternative that contains no milk products at all, it's best to stick with dairy-free foods.
What Is Non Dairy?
Just because a product is labeled as non-dairy does not mean that the product contains no milk. Non-dairy labels allow for the inclusion of milk derivatives like casein and whey, both of which are found in cow’s milk. Despite its name, you should always double-check the label of non-dairy products to ensure it contains zero milk products or derivatives.
How to Avoid Dairy
Dairy products are a key part of the Western diet, so you might find it hard to avoid dairy when shopping. If you’re trying to avoid dairy entirely, it's best to stick with dairy-free foods made from things like soy milk and oat milk. Avoiding “hidden dairy” in lactose-free and non-dairy products is key to successfully cutting dairy out of your diet.
Dairy products are a great source of protein and calcium, and cutting them out of your diet can have negative effects. Although dairy-free products can provide some of the nutrients you’re missing out on, you’ll still want to alter your diet to make up for some of the lost calcium and protein. Before you make any major dietary changes, ensure you’ve done the proper research and understand the potential effects.
Understanding the difference between lactose-free, dairy-free, and non-dairy products allows you to expand your menu and cater to new customers. These dairy substitutes are often healthier and more sustainable, and they can also be consumed by those with health and dietary restrictions. For these reasons, dairy alternatives are rapidly growing in popularity, making it critical that your establishment capitalizes on the growing trend.
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Plant Based Meat Substitutes
Are you curious about adding more plant-based dishes to your menu? The key to creating a satisfying meatless dish that's loved by omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans is to use plants that pack a lot of protein. Protein gives the feeling of fullness, takes longer to digest, and satiates the appetite. We’ve made a guide to introduce you to the most popular plant-based proteins with tips on how to incorporate them into the dishes you already make. Shop All Meat Substitutes Click below to learn more about plant-based meat alternatives: Tofu Seitan Tempeh Yuba Soy Curls Ground Beef Substitute Veggie Burgers Plant-Based Chicken Grains Nuts and Seeds Beans Plant-Based FAQs Plant Protein Chart Do plants contain protein? Yes! Check out the chart below for some of the most popular plant-based sources of protein. Best Meat Alternatives Our list of the best meat substitutes includes options for every appetite. Not everyone is a tofu-lover, so we've also listed whole food options like grains and beans. With our guide, you don't have to create new vegan recipes, just find the plant-based proteins that work best with your current menu. 1. Tofu Tofu is becoming a more familiar sight on menus, but it can still be an intimidating ingredient to the uninitiated. It doesn’t have to be! Tofu is full of plant-based protein and makes the perfect meat substitute for chicken, pork, or beef in stir-fry dishes. Tuck a marinated tofu plank into a crusty hoagie roll for vegan banh mi or crumble seasoned tofu with herbs and veggies for a satisfying plant-based scramble. What Does Tofu Taste Like? Tofu right out of the package has a bland, neutral taste. But when it's prepared correctly, it absorbs the flavor of seasonings and marinades like a sponge. Just make sure to choose firm or extra firm tofu (not silken) and squeeze the liquid out of it first. 2. Seitan Seitan (pronounced say-tan) is a soy-free protein source that mimics the texture of meat. It's made from vital wheat gluten, a flour-like ingredient comprised of mostly gluten and a small percentage of starch. That means seitan isn't suitable for a gluten-free diet, but it's a useful meat alternative for anyone with a soy allergy. Seitan is used in many plant-based products like vegan deli slices, holiday roasts, and other fake meats. What sets it apart from soy products is its chewy meat-like texture. It's easy to cook with, and doesn't require the same prep as tofu. Flavor-wise, it absorbs marinades and seasonings very well. Seitan vs Tofu Seitan is a wheat-based meat substitute, while tofu is soy-based. Since seitan contains no soy, it's a suitable meat replacement for those with a soy allergy. But for those with a gluten allergy, seitan is not suitable since it's made with wheat gluten. Including both tofu and seitan as meat substitutes on your menu ensures there is an option for all alternative diets and allergies. How To Cook Seitan There's no secret to cooking with seitan! You almost can't go wrong. Add chunks or strips of seitan to any recipe where you would use chicken, beef, or pork. You can also make breaded seitan cutlets, seitan bacon, and fried seitan chicken wings. If you want to add seitan to a soup or stew, brown it in a pan first to lock in flavor. 3. Tempeh Tempeh is a soy product just like tofu, but it has a very different texture and flavor. To make tempeh, whole soybeans are cooked, fermented, and pressed into a cake. Tempeh is dense with a slightly bitter, nutty flavor. It can be cut into cubes, slices, or even crumbled. What sets tempeh apart from other soy products is that it contains healthy probiotics in addition to being a protein source. Tempeh vs Seitan The difference between tempeh and seitan is that tempeh is soy-based and seitan is wheat-based. Tempeh is also a fermented food, giving it some extra nutritional value. How To Prepare Tempeh Tempeh is versatile and has a meaty texture that works well in a variety of recipes. It performs differently than tofu and doesn't require the same type of preparation. Dry heat cooking methods like grilling, baking, and sauteeing bring out the umami flavor in this meat substitute. Steam It - Quickly steaming the tempeh for a few seconds in salty water or vegetable broth removes the bitterness. Crumbled - Tempeh cakes can be crumbled to make a ground meat substitute. Saute the crumbles with olive oil and seasonings to lock in flavor, then add them to any recipe where you use ground beef. Try tempeh tacos and tempeh chili for a popular menu option. Sliced and Marinated - Thin tempeh slices can be marinated with soy sauce and maple syrup, then pan-fried or baked to make a great bacon substitute. Cubed - Cut tempeh into cubes, slather them with barbecue sauce, and add them to kabobs for a grilled entree. 4. Yuba Yuba is a soy product that’s not as well known as tofu or tempeh, but it has a unique texture that sets it apart. Also called tofu skin or bean curd sheet, yuba is made when soy milk is heated and a layer of skin forms on top of the liquid. The thin top layer is removed and packaged in sheets or long strips that look like noodles. How To Use Tofu Skin Tofu skin can be purchased fresh or dried. Because of its thin texture, tofu skin can burn quickly with high heat. Use low heat and watch the yuba carefully. Check out our tips for using yuba or tofu skin in your recipes: Dried Yuba Sheets - Dried yuba sheets have a thin paper-like texture. To make them more pliable, soak them in warm water for three to five minutes. Squeeze out any extra water from the sheets before cutting them into the desired shape. You can use the sheets as a wrapper for spring rolls or dumplings. Dried Beancurd Sticks - Dried yuba sticks are skins that have been bunched into several layers. Rehydrate the yuba sticks in water for 6-8 hours. After draining the sticks, cut them into bite-size pieces and use them as a meat substitute in braised or stir-fried dishes. Fresh Yuba - You can also buy fresh yuba sheets that don’t need to be rehydrated. Rinse the yuba under water to help separate the sheets. Cut the sheets into noodles for pasta dishes or soups, use them as a wrapper for dumplings, or roll them and fry them for a crispy appetizer. 5. Soy Curls Soy curls are a trademarked meat substitute made exclusively by a company called Butler Foods. These protein-packed strips are different than soy products like tofu and tempeh because they are considered minimally processed. According to Butler Foods, soy curls are made by boiling whole non-GMO soybeans in water. They contain no other additives or preservatives. Soy Curls vs Tofu Soy curls and tofu are both made from soy, but they have very different textures. While tofu is pressed into a solid cake form, soy curls are extruded into chunks with a chewy bite. Where to Buy Soy Curls Bulk soy curls can be purchased online directly from Butler Foods or other food retailers. How To Cook Soy Curls If you are looking for a fake meat option that requires minimal prep and can be added to a variety of recipes, soy curls might be right for your menu. They have a chewy texture and an umami flavor that's enhanced through cooking. Get started by following our tips: Soak - Soy curls come dehydrated and just need a short soak in warm water before cooking. For extra flavor, soak the curls in a seasoned vegetable broth. Pat Dry - Squeeze out any extra liquid and pat the soy curls dry before cooking. The drier the better because the curls will brown more easily. High Heat - The rehydrated soy curls can be pan-fried, air-fried, grilled, baked, or sauteed. They make a great substitute for chicken in stir-fry dishes and curries. Low and Slow - You can also slow cook soy curls in stews and soups. If you're using this method, there's no need to rehydrate the curls. 6. Ground Beef Substitute Meatless grounds, also called veggie crumbles, are one of the easiest plant-based proteins to cook with! There are many brands of vegan grounds and crumbles on the market, and most are made with protein-filled ingredients like soy, peas, and brown rice. The texture of plant-based crumbles mimics ground beef when used in certain recipes. How to Cook Veggie Crumbles Meatless ground is simple to prepare, but you just need to remember one thing. Brown the crumbles well with seasoning first before adding them to any recipes. Just like you wouldn't toss a pound of uncooked ground beef into a pot of pasta sauce, you shouldn't do that with vegan grounds either. Treat the grounds like beef and give them some love in a hot pan. You can achieve a better flavor if you saute them with oil and a little onion and garlic. Try adding plant-based grounds to these comfort-food favorites: Chili - Season beefless ground with chili seasoning before adding it to chunky tomatoes and kidney beans. Tacos - Tacos are always a hit. Just swap the ground beef for meatless crumbles and you have an easy plant-based option. Bolognese Sauce - With a vegan bolognese sauce on hand, you can create a variety of pasta dishes. Make sure to brown the meatless ground well and season it with onions and garlic before adding it to your sauce. Shepherd's Pie - Replace the ground beef in your shepherd's pie recipe with vegan crumbles and no one will realize the difference. Empanadas - You can't go wrong with warm golden pockets of meaty fillings. Cook up meatless crumbles with potatoes, onions, peppers, and spices for a satisfying dish. Pizza - Meatless crumbles make a great pizza topping! Go completely vegan and pair the crumbles with non-dairy cheese. See Our Meatless Ground Products 7. Veggie Burgers Making your own veggie burgers is more challenging than you would think. Getting the ingredients to bind together without using eggs or dairy-based ingredients can be tricky. You might create a wholesome mixture of beans and veggies, but once the patty goes on the grill, it tends to crumble. Many house-made veggie burgers fall apart and don’t have the meaty texture that customers are looking for in a plant-based burger. Thanks to the veggie burger war between Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat, there are now many high-quality plant-based burger options to choose from! Today's veggie burger is meaty, savory, and cooks up just like a beef burger. How Long To Cook Veggie Burgers on Grill If it’s your first time cooking a plant-based burger, you might be wondering how long it needs to stay on the grill. The product doesn’t contain meat, but it still needs to be cooked to the correct temperature listed on the package. Also, a little char on the veggie burger is always good and gives it more of a grilled-meat flavor. So don’t take those burgers off too soon! Veggie Burger Ideas Follow these tips for offering the best plant-based burger: Skip the Cheese - If you want to make your veggie burger menu completely vegan, skip the cheese slices and offer creamy avocado instead. Other flavor enhancers that will make you forget all about cheese are caramelized onions, crispy shallots, or charred scallions. Housemade Condiments - You can enhance a plant-based burger with tangy housemade condiments like vegan garlic aioli or sriracha ketchup. Don’t Forget About the Bun - Brioche buns are really popular on burger menus, but many contain eggs. Don’t forget to provide a plant-based bun to go with your vegan burgers. See Our Veggie Burgers 8. Plant-Based Chicken Many plant-based food companies are now venturing into the world of chicken alternatives, which means there are more diverse options on the market! The usual faux chicken patties and nuggets are being joined by meatier, tastier options like strips, tenders, and cutlets. What Is Plant Based Chicken? Every brand has its own recipe, but most plant-based chicken products are made with ingredients like soy protein or pea protein that mimic the texture of real chicken. How To Serve Plant-Based Chicken Check out our ideas for adding chicken alternatives to your menu: Kid-Friendly Favorites - Parents want plant-based options for their kids too! It's easy to swap the chicken nuggets for a vegan option. Bake, air fry, or cook nuggets in a combi oven to omit the extra oil from deep frying. Add Some Heat - Buffalo sauce tastes just as good on plant-based chicken. Try tossing faux chicken patties, tenders, or nuggets in spicy buffalo sauce. Offer a cooling non-dairy ranch sauce for dipping. Wrap it Up - Wrap crispy pieces of vegan fried chicken with avocado, diced tomato, and seitan bacon in a tortilla for a delicious BLT wrap. Non-Breaded Options - You can also find non-breaded chicken alternatives that can be seared and treated like grilled chicken. Add chunks of faux chicken to pot pie, stirfry, and Caesar salad. See Our Vegan Chicken Products 9. Grains Believe it or not, grains contain protein too! If you’re looking for plant-based dishes that feature minimally processed whole foods instead of fake meats, grains are an excellent choice. As a bonus, they also contain other nutrients like fiber and iron. Oats, wheat, and brown rice are common grains that you probably use already. These lesser-known grains are ideal for creating plant-based recipes because they contain all of the 9 amino acids that make up a complete protein. They're also considered pseudocereals, which are technically seeds but are used like cereal grains. This means they don't contain gluten and can be used in place of other grains for gluten-free recipes. Quinoa - Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is a powerhouse ingredient that can be used in place of rice in any of your recipes. Use it to make grain salads, harvest bowls, or breakfast bowls. Buckwheat - Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat at all. Buckwheat seeds are triangular-shaped kernels called groats. One of the most popular ways to use buckwheat is ground into flour and used in pancakes and baked goods. It's also the key ingredient in soba noodles. Amaranth - Amaranth is a less familiar pseudocereal, similar to quinoa, but with a nuttier flavor. The whole seeds can be simmered just like rice and used in pilafs, porridge, or grain bowls. It can also be ground into flour and used for gluten-free baking. See Our Bulk Grains 10. Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds are great for snacking or adding extra crunch to salads, but did you know they also make convincing meat substitutes? Many nuts and seeds can be used to make a plant-based meat option that's minimally processed. If your customers are looking for a meat alternative that's made from whole foods and doesn't contain wheat or soy, nut-based meats are filling and full of protein. What Is Walnut Meat? Walnut meat is a mixture of coarsely chopped walnuts, mushrooms or beans, and seasonings that mimics the look and taste of ground meat. It's simple to whip up a batch of walnut meat in a food processor with just a few ingredients. Pulse the walnuts until they are crumbly, then add them to a hot pan and brown the walnut meat just like ground beef. Add the walnut meat to tacos and nachos or use it to make plant-based meatballs. You can try the same method with almonds or hulled sunflower seeds. See Our Bulk Nuts and Seeds 11. Beans Beans have been consumed as an affordable protein source for thousands of years. There's a reason for that! Dried beans are economical and shelf-stable. When stored correctly, they can last for years. If you want to try adding more plant-based foods to your menu, but you're hesitant about fake meats and processed soy products, beans are a healthy whole-food protein option. There are many beans to choose from, but these are our favorites for adding the most protein to your dishes. Chickpeas - Chickpeas contain all the amino acids needed to form a complete protein, just like meat. Hummus is the dip that probably comes to mind when you think of chickpeas, but there are other delicious ways to use these wholesome legumes. Add chickpeas as a protein option for curry dishes or combine them with vegan mayo, minced celery, and seafood seasoning to create a mock tuna salad sandwich. Soybeans - Soybeans are the base of many meat alternatives, but they're also tasty in their whole form. Edamame (pronounced eh-duh-mah-may) are young green soybeans in the pod. Serve steamed edamame pods with a light sprinkle of sea salt and other seasonings as a protein-rich appetizer. Lentils - Lentils are a popular protein source because they cook up quickly from their dried form. They can be used as a ground beef substitute in many recipes. Try cooking lentils and shredded carrots in a tangy barbecue sauce to make a veggie "pulled pork" sandwich. Lupini Beans - Lupini beans aren't as well known in the US, but they're a popular snack in the Mediterranean. We're including them on our list because they're chock full of complete protein and lower in carbs than other beans. You can serve cooked lupini beans on their own as an appetizer or in place of other beans in salads, wraps, and soups. Black Beans - Black beans work well as a meat substitute in burritos, tacos, and veggie burgers. For extra protein, combine black beans with rice. See Our Bulk Beans Plant-Based FAQs We answer some common questions about plant-based meats below: Do Plants Have Protein? Yes, all plants contain protein, but some have more per ounce than others. The plant-based options on our list make the best meat substitutes because they are protein-rich. It's easy to make a meal made entirely from plants, but if it doesn't have protein, it won't be as satisfying. Keep reading to learn about the easiest plant proteins to add to your menu. What Is a Complete Protein? A complete protein source is a food that contains all 9 of the amino acids that the human body needs for good health. Many of the plant-based meat alternatives on our list are complete proteins on their own. Foods that don't contain all the amino acids can be combined with other foods to make a complete protein. Nutritionists also say that these foods don't have to be eaten at the same time or even on the same day. The human body will store the necessary amino acids and use them as building blocks when they are needed. What Is Jackfruit? Unripe jackfruit is a popular meat substitute because it can be shredded and used in place of pulled pork or chicken. If you want to try this meat alternative, make sure to purchase cans of young jackfruit in water. Jackfruit products that are canned in brine or syrup won't taste right in your recipes. Also, even though jackfruit has a remarkable texture, it doesn't contain a lot of protein. Keep in mind that your customers might be coming back for seconds of your jackfruit dishes because they won't be as filling as other protein-rich foods. What About Plant-Based Seafood? Plant-based seafood has been growing in popularity as a sustainable alternative to traditional seafood like chunk tuna, sashimi, and shrimp. You'll also find vegan breaded filets, fish sticks, and crabcakes. What Is Veganuary? Veganuary is a charity organization that encourages people to go vegan for the whole month of January. When you make a pledge and sign up on the Veganuary website, you gain access to free cookbooks, meal plans, and nutrition guides. The Veganuary movement has led to a higher demand for plant-based foods in January, so make sure to update your restaurant's menu this year! What Is Plant Based Meat Made Of? Plant-based meats are made without the use of any animal products. Instead, they are made with a combination of ingredients that come from plants, like soybeans, peas, and vital wheat gluten. Now that you're familiar with the wide world of meat substitutes, you can create plant-based dishes for your menu with confidence. The secret to pleasing omnivores, flexitarians, and vegans is to focus on the flavors and provide healthy protein options that taste just as good as traditional meat dishes.
Accommodate More Customers with Gluten-Free Baking
Have you ever been curious about why some people go gluten-free? As many as 3 million people in the United States are diagnosed with Celiac disease. Those who have this disease cannot eat and properly digest gluten products without harming their small intestine. As awareness of this disease has increased over time, owners of bakeries have started to accommodate their customers with this intolerance by adopting gluten-free baking operations. Not to mention, gluten-free diets for individuals without Celiac disease are growing in popularity, and you can capitalize on that by producing gluten-free goods. This being said, if you are interested in catering to customers with gluten-free diets, it’s important to have a basic understanding of gluten, Celiac disease, and how gluten impacts those affected by the disease. Shop All Gluten-Free Foods What is Gluten? Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and other similar grains like triticale, a hybrid of wheat and rye. This protein acts as a binding agent, making batters and dough sticky and giving them their structure and shape. Gluten provides elasticity and stability, holding together cookies, cakes, pastries, and other favorite baked goods. What is a Gluten-Free Diet? A gluten-free diet completely exludes the use of gluten, and it may include gluten-free substitutes in order to enjoy traditionally glutinous foods. While a gluten-free diet is necessary for people with Celiac disease, many modern diet systems also recommend going gluten-free. For this reason, any gluten-free goods you produce will appeal to customers interested in these lifestyles and will also accommodate individuals diagnosed with Celiac disease. What is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease causes the body to be hypersensitive to gluten products. It occurs when the body’s natural defense system reacts to gluten by attacking the lining of the small intestine. If an individual with Celiac disease continues to eat gluten products, they can potentially ruin their healthy intestinal lining over time, which will cause the body to lose its ability to absorb the nutrients it needs. This can cause nutrient deficiencies, ultimately leading to other diseases like anemia, osteoporosis, diabetes, and intestinal cancers. As the owner of a bakery, it’s important to be extremely cautious and knowledgeable when baking gluten-free, since any cross-contamination can lead to harmful side effects. Avoiding Cross-Contamination of Your Gluten-Free Baked Goods The growing public awareness of gluten-free diets has made gluten-free bakery products more accessible than ever before. With many different types of gluten-free flours and other ingredients available on the market, bakers can offer delicious alternatives to your favorite glutinous goodies. However, there is always a risk for contamination with gluten. If you offer both regular and gluten-free baked goods on your menu, there is a very high risk that gluten can accidentally be mixed into gluten-free batters. Gluten protein can linger in the air and contaminate your gluten-free products hours after you've baked with it. Even the slightest trace of this protein can cause discomfort and major complications for someone with Celiac disease. Your best option is to operate a 100% gluten-free kitchen that only offers gluten-free choices. If this is not possible for your business, consider the following tips for avoiding cross-contamination: Use separate tools and equipment and complete all of your baking in a partitioned, gluten-free area. Designate food allergy safety products that are only used for preparing gluten-free foods. Wash and store them separately from other utensils, as well. You should also use a different oven for baking these products. Research your ingredient suppliers. If an ingredient isn't certified gluten-free, don’t trust it. It is also important to be well-informed of the processing and packaging used for your gluten-free flour. If the mill also supplies regular wheat flour, there’s a risk of contamination. Look for labels on packages, and read the ingredient lists on everything, including your mix-ins and toppings. If your bakery offers both gluten-free and gluten-full options, be sure to clearly mark which products are safe for your gluten-intolerant customers. Using Gluten-Free Ingredients in Your Bakery There are many gluten-free baking ingredients you can use to replace ingredients containing gluten, but working with them may take some practice. Since gluten-free cakes, cookies, and other treats lack the protein that gives them the fluffy and sticky texture that many people enjoy, it’s important to learn how to make up for the lack of gluten. Here are some guidelines for adopting gluten-free ingredients: By adding in other starches and ingredients like baking soda and baking powder, you can achieve a texture similar to that provided by gluten. Be sure that you are using gluten-free baking powder and baking soda before making this substitution. Mix different gluten-free flours to find the right combination for your recipe. Each type of gluten-free flour has its own characteristics, so if you combine their various qualities into a single blend, you can improve the texture, flavor, and structure of your baked goods. Additionally, you can find gluten-free baking mix with pre-blended ingredients. Add xanthan gum for stretchiness. Using small amounts of xanthan gum in your gluten-free baking will help mimic the stretchy quality of dough for breads and pastries. A general rule of thumb is to add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum per 1 cup of gluten-free flour for cakes, muffins, and quick breads. For cookies and bars, add 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum per 1 cup of gluten-free flour. Add more eggs. Eggs have a lot of protein, which allows them to act as a binder, resulting in baked goods that won’t crumble. Beating egg whites can increase the volume of your batters, while adding an extra egg yolk can add tenderness and help enhance texture. Check and see if some of your favorite products are already gluten-free. Some common ingredients like pure cocoa powder and cornstarch typically do not contain gluten. If you can ensure that they have not been contaminated in processing or contain gluten-full additives, then these ingredients can be safe to use without substitution. Different Types of Gluten-Free Flour There are several different types of grains, nuts, beans, and root vegetables that can be processed into gluten-free flour. Below, we’ve offered you a list of flour options that you can use for baking gluten-free products. Almond FlourAlmond flour is a flavorful, low carbohydrate substitute for glutinous flour. Made from skinless, blanched, and ground almonds that are milled to a very fine consistency, this flour is light and adds moisture and protein to baked goods. Due to its texture and flavor, almond flour is ideal for breads, macarons, cakes, pastries, and pie crusts. Its naturally nutty flavor is also complementary to a variety of baked goods, and it can be used in place of bread crumbs for many recipes. Rice Flour Rice flour is a great gluten-free substitute for all-purpose flour, and it also serves as an alternative to wheat flour. Made from milled and polished white rice, this low-fat flour is ground to a fine consistency, resulting in a smooth texture. It’s also light and mild, making it great for many delicate desserts, and it is perfect for thickening puddings and custards. You can even find rice flour made from ground brown rice for even more nutritional value. <figure class="article-image" style="max-width: 200px;"> <figcaption style="font-weight: bold;">Bulk Rice Flour from $5.29</figcaption> </figure> Other Gluten-Free Flour Options for Baking Tapioca flour Teff flour Buckwheat flour Quinoa flour Coconut flour If you're ready to open a gluten-free bakery, or you're looking to start offering gluten-free desserts in your establishment, be sure you understand all of the requirements that must be met. Remember, you must have completely separate tools and equipment designated for gluten-free baking. Once you've set up your kitchen and have bought the proper gluten-free baking supplies, you'll be on your way to making delicious baked goods for your gluten-intolerant customers.
Vegan Menu Ideas for Your Restaurant
The interest in plant-based foods continues to grow, and it’s not just vegans and vegetarians who are responsible for the push. Many consumers, omnivores included, want to add more vegetable-based dishes to their diet. Updating your menu with vegan options is a way to increase your customer base and stay current with foodservice trends. If you have concerns about how to execute this successfully, we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn how to make a vegan-friendly menu that all your customers will love. Shop All Plant-Based Foods What Is Veganuary? Veganuary, as the name suggests, is a combination of "vegan" and "January." This month-long pledge originated in the UK in 2014 and has since grown into a global phenomenon. The concept is simple: participants commit to following a vegan diet for the entire month of January. This means avoiding all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. So why should restaurant owners pay attention to Veganuary? The number of people adopting a vegan diet is on the rise. By offering vegan options on your menu, you can tap into this growing market and attract a whole new customer base. Keep reading for simple meal ideas you can incorporate into a Veganuary menu! How to Become a Vegan-Friendly Restaurant Adding one veggie burger option to your menu won't transform your business into a vegan-friendly paradise. To be inclusive of plant-based diets, you need to examine some different aspects of your operations. Check out our 5 tips for vegan-friendly restaurants below: 1. Education and Training Education is the first step to truly becoming a vegan-friendly restaurant. It starts at the top! Familiarize yourself with alternative diets so you understand how to appeal to plant-based customers. Then train your entire staff so they can answer questions and provide recommendations. What’s the Difference Between Vegan and Vegetarian? Understanding the meaning of the terms vegan and vegetarian is the first hurdle. Your staff members should know how to serve a customer who walks in the door and says, "I'm vegan. What menu options do you have for me?" Vegans have the most restrictive diet and abstain from eating any animal products, like meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. Vegetarians don’t eat meat, but they do eat eggs and dairy. If this is too hard to remember, just focus on making vegan options. Anything vegan will also be suitable for a vegetarian diet. Just make sure it tastes good! Allergies vs Dietary Restrictions One of the first questions your servers should ask their guests is, “Does anyone at the table have a dietary restriction or allergy?” Food allergies are a major health issue because a customer could experience a dangerous allergic reaction when exposed to a certain food. A dietary restriction, on the other hand, is a life choice or preference. It may be a preference based on health, but the guest will not face a life-threatening reaction. Your staff should be trained to handle food allergies and dietary restrictions. If a customer asks for no dairy in their meal, the follow-up to that request should be “Are you allergic to dairy?” Always confirm whether the customer has an allergy or just a dietary restriction. 2. Build Dishes Around Protein (Not Meat) Contrary to popular belief, vegans don’t just eat lettuce and broccoli. Plant-based proteins are the key to making a dish that is satisfying for everyone, meat-eaters included. A dish that’s made entirely of vegetables won’t be appealing or filling for anyone. Start to embrace the idea of building dishes around proteins instead of meat. Choose a few different plant-based proteins to be the stars of your new menu: Tofu - Don’t be afraid of cooking with tofu. It’s one of the most versatile plant-based proteins you can use because it absorbs flavors and marinades. Tempeh - If you need more texture in your dish, tempeh is a great alternative to tofu. Lentils, Beans, or Chickpeas - You probably already have these plant-based proteins in your dry storage! Meat Substitutes - The quality and taste of faux meats have improved dramatically over the last few years. There’s a convincing substitute for just about any type of meat you can think of, whether it’s pork, chicken, or beef. Meat substitutes like frozen veggie burgers are convenient, but don’t rely on fake meats alone to build your menu. Diners are looking for dishes they can’t make at home. Your menu will be the most successful if you offer a variety of different plant-based proteins. 3. Vegan Menu Ideas You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to make a vegan menu. Stick with what you know and make some slight adjustments. Swap in vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, or use olive oil in place of butter. Canned coconut milk is a useful staple to keep on hand for savory and sweet dishes. Many replacements are items that you have on hand already. Vegan Breakfast Options Many breakfast and brunch menus are heavily reliant on eggs and meats. You can broaden your appeal by including a few easy vegan breakfast options for your guests: Tofu Scramble - A proper tofu scramble is the classic breakfast option for vegans. Just don’t forget to press the tofu! No one wants a watery, mushy scramble. Add some kala namak salt for an eggy taste. Once you nail the recipe for tofu scramble, you can use it in sandwiches, breakfast bowls, and burritos! Avocado Toast - It’s still in demand! Add extra toppings like arugula, sliced tomato, or pickled red onions. Yogurt Parfaits - Simple and effective. Keep a vegan yogurt on hand and layer it with fruit and granola. Vegan Pancakes - Did you know that you don’t need milk or eggs to make a fluffy pancake? Find a vegan pancake recipe and make that your standard across the board. You’ll always have a vegan option available for breakfast. Serve with coconut whipped cream, strawberries, and maple syrup. Vegan Appetizers Many appetizer options can be made vegan simply by omitting meat or cheese-based toppings. Try these easy plant-based appetizers: Roasted Shishito Peppers - These mild green peppers are a popular appetizer that's already vegan. Charred Brussel Sprouts - Top charred brussel sprouts with pine nuts instead of bacon for a smokey taste. Warm Marinated Olives - Something happens to olives when you heat them. They become even more delicious and savory! Serve with crusty vegan bread. Vegan Hot Wings - Try our recipe for easy plant-based hot wings. Serve with vegan ranch! Vegan Entrees Vegetable-based entrees have become more popular, even with omnivores. Check out our ideas for delicious plant-based mains: Fried Oyster Mushroom Po’Boy - Get acquainted with the oyster mushroom. This amazing fungus tastes eerily similar to chicken when it's breaded and fried. Lentil Loaf - Meatloaf made with protein-packed lentils is a comfort-food dish you can serve with vegan gravy and mashed potatoes. Tempeh Bolognese - A savory, meaty bolognese sauce is still achievable with plant-based proteins. Mapo Tofu - A spicy dish from the Sichuan Province, this tofu recipe gets its umami flavor from a Chinese bean paste called doubanjiang. BBQ Bowl - Offer a buildable bowl with different types of BBQ sauce, barbecue jackfruit, vegan mac and cheese, or vegan cole slaw. Cornbread on the side! Vegan Desserts You don't have to master the art of dairy-free baking to provide a tempting dessert menu. Try these options for desserts that contain no animal products: Rice Pudding with Coconut Milk - This is a simple dessert that only requires a few staple ingredients - cooked rice, coconut milk, sweetener, and cinnamon. You can even use leftover cooked rice to cut down on food waste! Fruit Crisp - Fruit crisps or crumbles make an appealing dessert, especially if you use local, seasonal produce. You can also get away with canned fruit or pie filling! Vegan Ice Cream - Keep vegan vanilla ice cream in the freezer and you can use it to whip up milkshakes, sundaes, or pie a la mode. 4. Menu Labeling Providing thorough menu descriptions is a good practice in general, but you can go above and beyond by adding icons that identify vegan and vegetarian items. Apply this to your physical menus as well as your online menu. Many diners review your online menu before they decide to dine with you. By clearly labeling plant-based dishes, you are more likely to attract vegan and vegetarian customers. You could also provide a separate menu that only lists your vegan dishes. This makes it easy for guests and servers to identify your plant-based items. 5. Update Your POS System It’s easy for wires to get crossed when a server has trouble entering special requests in your POS system. Update your POS to account for substitutions and changes, so that requests are clear when they reach the kitchen. A “make it vegan” button should automatically provide instructions to omit any dairy-based sauces and cheese from a dish. The easier it is for the kitchen staff to understand vegan requests, the better your food will be. Becoming a vegan-friendly restaurant isn't just about the menu. It's important to provide tasty plant-based alternatives, but you also need to lay some groundwork. Training your staff, labeling your menu, and updating your POS system will make it easier to accommodate alternative diets in your restaurant.