American Classics Reinvented

When Shauna Ahern, an avid foodie, was diagnosed with celiac sprue, she and chef husband Daniel set out to create gluten-free dishes that nourished and tasted good. The pair (Gluten-Free Girl Every Day), James Beard award winners, now turn their sights to American classic home-style dishes, all gluten free. With sandwiches, pies and cakes, fried foods, meats and soups, nothing is off limits. Stating that many baked goods are better without gluten, they first tackle the biggest hurdle of gluten-free baking—flour—offering an all-purpose gluten-free blend and a grain-free flour mix. From there, the cook can do anything, from smoked salmon eggs Benedict to pineapple upside-down cake. Most recipes include a fun “Feel Like Playing” call-out =offering an idea or two for substitutions or enhancements. Readers will particularly appreciate the extensive chapter on bread, which includes recipes for sourdough including the starter, sandwich bread, bagels, pizza dough, and more. Savory foods are also well represented with macaroni and cheese, chicken-fried steak, sausage lasagna, and breaded pork chops. Seafood options, although in short supply, are appealing and include shrimp and grits cakes, seafood pot pie, and pan-fried breaded fish. Those who feel limited on a gluten-free diet will rejoice in this extensive and appetizing collection of family favorites that can once again be on the menu. Agent: Stacey Glick, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management. (Sept.)