The Good Cookies

I am always giddy when I discover a new find that I want to share with all of you.  Today, I am happy to tell you about The Good Cookies and Beyond, a gluten free bakery in Torrance that also features several vegan items.  They are all natural and organic.  After tasting their goods, I am super grateful to my friend who told me about them earlier this month.

Owners Amber and Lisa strive to provide their customers with gourmet baked goods that are "extraordinary delicious."  I can attest that they do just that.  Their original cookie recipe was developed over 15 years ago when Lisa's mom was diagnosed with celiac disease.  They are also strong believers in keeping our environment healthy so all of their packaging is recyclable and biodegradable.

Up front, I want to disclose that I am fairly critical of gluten free goodies.  I find that they are often dense and rarely moist.  I was super curious to taste the offerings from The Good Cookies and Beyond, because I was a bit skeptical.  

I sampled several bars and cookies.  The Almond Bars were one of my favorites - super moist and chewy with bits of dried fruit.  This bakery is going to be dangerous for my waist line!  The cookies were the best gluten free ones I have every tasted.  Again, they were incredibly moist and flavorful. I tried the Sunbutter Cookies and Joy Almond Cookies.  I am a huge fan of both.  The Banana Chocolate Chip Muffin is another winner, as are both cupcakes I tried - Carrot and Chocolate.  I am not a huge Carrot Cake fan, but actually really enjoyed the cupcake.

I am excited and encouraged to see an all gluten free bakery right in my backyard.  Since cutting out gluten from my diet earlier this month, it has been difficult to find baked goods that are vegan and gluten free.  I often have to bake them myself, and sometimes it is difficult to make the time.  I find it inspiring to see Amber and Lisa taking on such a worthwhile initiative - more proof that good food really is good food!  Taste and health can coexist with delicious results.  A big thumbs up to The Good Cookies and Beyond! 

You can order online or visit them in person at 2081 Torrance Boulevard in Torrance.  They also serve daily lunch items, including lasagna, quiche, and salads.  Be sure to check them out and let me know what you think in the comments section below.

3 Easy Switch Outs To Make It Gluten Free

I posted recently about my decision to limit gluten in my diet.  I received some great feedback from you (thank you!) and thought I would share some of the easiest ways I have replaced wheat products in my every day meals.  It hasn't taken much thought or effort, to be honest, and I feel so much better.  I discovered that I eat bread and gluten mostly with Italian (pasta and bread), and Mexican meals (burritos and enchiladas).  It would also make an appearance when making wraps or sandwiches, and of course, there is the baking.  In addition to switching out whole wheat with the other products below, I have also changed up my menus - more salads and soups instead of wraps and sandwiches.  As for baking, there are great gluten-free flours available at Whole Foods, and I couldn't do without Julie's Original gluten-free, vegan baking mixes.  When making croutons or breadcrumbs, I have discovered a vegan, gluten-free bread at Trader Joe's.  


As for the switch-outs, here's what I am using:        

1. Corn: Corn tortillas make great "wrappers" for burritos and and salads.  I also used them in an enchilada casserole I made instead of whole wheat tortillas.  Trader Joe's also sells a corn pasta that is gluten free that I served with my vegan "meat" sauce and it tasted great.

2. Quinoa: Instead whole wheat pasta and other gluten grains, I use quinoa varieties of pasta togive me the "bulk" I am craving in a bowl.  Millet is another easy option.  I have replaced the bulgur in my tabbouleh recipe with millet and it tastes just as good.  Tossing either of these gluten-free grains into a soup is also a great option to add a little something extra to your pot. 

3. Nori: Seaweed makes a great wrap in place of sandwich or wrap.  Stuff it with a great salad, veggies and hummus, or avocado and lemon juice.  I seriously don't miss the bread.

Super simple and very delish.  Try using one switch out and see if your tummy feels lighter and looks flatter.  Let me know if you do!