Gluten Free Hot Cereal

​During the winter months, people tend to want to eat hot cereals. Many people start eating oatmeal for breakfast. However, when you have Celiac Disease and cannot have oats, oatmeal is off limits. So, what CAN you eat on those cold mornings?

• Along with a hot cup of coffee, I sometimes eat hot quinoa flakes. Quinoa flakes takes only 90 seconds to cook in the microwave, and the heartiness of the cereal keeps you full for hours. I add a touch of organic brown sugar and a serving of craisins to the cereal, just to give it some flavor. It's pretty darn good! The brand that I recommend is Ancient Harvest. Most supermarkets carry this quinoa cereal. You can find it in the natural foods section, with all the gluten free foods. Yes, this cereal is gluten free.
• I also recommend gluten free rice and shine cereal, if you're not a fan of quinoa. This hot cereal is also gluten free, but, does take a little longer to cook. This hot cereal keeps you full for hours, and I also add some organic brown sugar, and craisins. The brand to look for is Arrowhead Mills. This cereal is more difficult to find, but, you can find it in most organic and natural food stores. You can also find it online as well.
• There is also the option of Buckwheat hot cereal by Pocono. I am hesitant to mention this one, because some Celiacs are sensitive to Buckwheat. I happen to be one of them. If you are able to tolerate buckwheat, I do recommend this cereal. Add some fresh blueberries to the cereal. The fresh fruit gives it a very nice flavor.
• If you CAN tolerate gluten free oatmeal, I recommend Quaker Oats' gluten free oatmeal. Also, Chex makes a good gluten free oatmeal (I've had both products several times and have had no issues). Add craisins, brown sugar, or fresh fruit to satisfy your sweet tooth!
  

Start off your day with a hot beverage and a comforting bowl of hot cereal. Stay warm out there and be well! Winter will be over soon!

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