Accidentally Gluten-Free

The other day Patch and I were discussing gluten-free living and she seemed very worried that switching over would be difficult. As the main person who shops and one of the two main cooks, she was understandably nervous. Besides, Patch has never been one for change. She mentioned wanting me to shop with her so that she does not accidentally buy the wrong things. That would be wonderful since I do love spending time with Patch foraging through the aisles of a grocery store, but my migraines make it very difficult to go grocery shopping as the lights in most stores are intolerable even with wrap around sunglasses and what my friends call the unibomber look. (hat, sunglasses, hoody)

Because I have not yet been tested for Celiac and gluten intolerance, and won't be until at least the 17th of this month, we have not yet officially begun the change to a gluten-free diet. We have however begun reading packaging and noticing which of the foods we regularly eat do or do not have gluten.

So it was interesting to find out that the meal Patch made for us the other night was accidentally gluten-free! And nice to know that something so delicious and so part of our normal style of eating could be part of my gluten-free future. Patch has been kind enough to share her recipe so others may enjoy such a delicious meal in the future.

Pork Loin and Potatoes: (sorry, no measurements of the herbs, Patch came up with this completely by feel)

Pork Loin rubbed with olive oil, salt, pepper, sage, and savory.  roasted on a sheet pan in oven at 375 for 20 minutes, then 425 for about 35 minutes while the potatoes cooked. Let rest for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven

Potatoes cut into hearty chunks and placed in bowl, olive oil and 4 tablespoons onion soup mix stirred into the potatoes, make sure they're all covered well then place them in a shallow baking pan and bake at 425 for 35 minutes stirring occasionally (2 or 3 times)

Onion Soup Mix Recipe: (Gluten, caesin, and soy free )

• 3/4 cup instant minced onion
• 1/3 cup beef bouillon powder
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Mix and store in air tight container. 

We had this with a side of perfectly steamed broccoli and it was a truly delicious meal. I hope to repeat it some day! Who's kidding who, I ate the leftovers daily for 3 days and wanted to make more when it was gone! The pork loin was tender and juicy, the rub meshed well with the sauce on the potatoes, and the only thing I'd change is to use a low sodium soup mix on the potatoes next time

If you're new to this like we are, and unsure which ingredients in your pantry just happen to already be gluten-free, check out this great list from the Celiac Sprue Association: http://www.csaceliacs.org/gluten_choices.php