Bread is one of the oldest man-made foods, and to this day remains an absolute staple found in 99% of UK households. 12 million loaves are sold every day, the majority of which are made from refined wheat-flour. Wheat is considered problematic due to the protein called gluten that it contains, which can trigger a harmful immune response in predisposed individuals. 1 in 10 people avoid gluten in their diet. However, there is a myriad of different wheat-free alternatives that you can make from scratch at home, like I do. Read on to discover Bread: 5 Amazing Alternatives!
1. Porridge Bread
This porridge bread is a dense, squidgy and irresistible alternative, and makes for a wonderful addition to any meal. Made from a base of oats and yogurt, it is a far more sustaining and fibrous alternative to ordinary bread.
Oats are gluten free and very good for digestion, helping your sugar and insulin levels to remain stable. You can personalize your bread by adding chopped nuts, seeds and dried fruit assortments to the mixture, I personally love to add hazelnuts and prunes to my loaf.
2. Seed Loaf
This life–changing loaf contains sunflower seeds, flax seeds and chia seeds. Seeds are great sources of fibre and contain healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The bread also contains a wondrous binding agent called psyllium husk, that helps to reduce cholesterol levels, aid digestion and weight loss, as well as alleviate diarrhoea and constipation. The finished product is filling and delicious. Lather on some almond butter for breakfast, or have it with some cream cheese and smoked salmon for lunch. You’ll never look back!
3. No-Carb Cloud Bread
For a lighter option, try out this two-ingredient no-carb bread, particularly ideal for anybody on the keto diet. This one contains a small amount of cream cheese, and some eggs, providing you with your daily dose of protein. The end product is a soft-centered chewy patty, ideal as a light snack or to use for sandwiches.
4. Peanut Butter Bread
Similarly, this peanut butter bread is beautifully light and simple. It is less filling than the oat and seed breads, however it makes for a fluffy, mouthwatering and totally guilt free add-on to any meal. Try it out, and experiment with different nut butters to vary the flavour!
5. Flourless Banana Bread
This moist and delicious banana bread will feel naughty to have for breakfast, but fear not! The sweetness is derived from the bananas and a small amount of maple syrup. Bananas are a healthy source of fibre, potassium, and vitamins.
The oats and bananas make this recipe a very satiety-sustaining option, and therefore won’t render you snack searching later on in the day. Maple syrup is a fantastic alternative to refined sugar, and has been known to protect the heart, boost the immune system and even prevent cancer. Treat yourself to an indulgent slice for breakfast, tea, or pudding!
