Whether you're in Europe, Asia, Africa, America or Oceania, fall is a time when root vegetables, squash and nutrient-rich fruits are in the spotlight. Fall is a season full of colors and flavors. This is the opportunity to discover or rediscover seasonal products, which are a real gold mine for fans of gluten-free cuisine. In this article, we explore the key foods of fall and give you some ideas for cooking them in a simple, healthy and delicious way.
The Star Fruits and Vegetables of Autumn around the world
Fall is marked by an abundance of root vegetables, squash and fruits rich in flavor and color. Here are the main ones:
- Squash : Pumpkin, butternut, pumpkin… Present on 5 continents, squash are the queens of autumn! Rich in fiber and vitamins, they are suitable for many preparations ranging from soups to desserts: pumpkin soup, butternut puree, squash gratin, or even pumpkin pie (without dough for a gluten-free version).
- Mushrooms : Autumn is also the season for wild mushrooms. Mushroom picking is part of traditional family outings in Europe and North America. Porcini mushrooms, chanterelles and chanterelles bring a woody and delicious touch to the dishes. In risotto, tart or omelette, they are a gluten-free delight to savor.
- Cabbages : Cooked mainly in Europe, North America and Asia, cabbage varieties provide freshness and are rich in nutrients. A cauliflower gratin with coconut milk or a kale salad are simple and filling options.
- Sweet Potatoes : Popular in Africa, America and Oceania, sweet potatoes are ideal for comfort foods like mash, soups and desserts.
- Chestnuts : In Europe and Asia, chestnuts are often roasted or included in sweet and savory dishes.
- Apples and pears : Very popular in Europe and North America, but also in China for pears, these autumn fruits are perfect for light, gluten-free desserts. Homemade compotes, baked apples with a little honey, invisible with apples or pears or even a pear crumble with rice flour are great ideas for enjoying these seasonal fruits.
Autumn cuisine around the world
Fall is a season of transition where nature offers a variety of unique flavors and products. From Europe to Asia, via Africa, America and Oceania, each continent celebrates the arrival of autumn with comforting dishes: soups and veloutés, pies and gratins. or even stews.
1. Europe: Autumn Flavors of the Forest and Vegetable Garden
In Europe, autumn is marked by the harvest of mushrooms, apples, chestnuts and squash. The cuisine is more comforting with soups, stews and stews.
- Dish idea:
Mushroom risotto (Italy) A creamy risotto made with arborio rice, wild mushrooms such as porcini mushrooms or chanterelles, and parmesan. This Italian dish, naturally gluten-free, perfectly embodies the fall flavors of Europe.
2. America: Squash Harvests and Comforting Spices
In America, fall is a bountiful harvest time for squash, sweet potatoes and cranberries. Tis the season for heart-warming sweet and spicy flavors.
- Dish idea:
Pumpkin pie (United States) This pie, made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, is a fall classic in the United States. For a gluten-free version, use a dough made from rice flour or almond flour.
3. Asia: Subtle Flavors and Bouillons with original flavors
In Asia, autumn is a season conducive to simmered dishes and fragrant soups. Seasonal vegetables like kabocha pumpkin in Japan or water chestnuts in China are at the heart of many dishes.
- Dish idea:
Kabocha Nimono (Japan) This Japanese dish highlights kabocha, a variety of pumpkin, simmered in a light broth of dashi, tamari soy sauce and mirin. A simple, comforting dish that highlights the natural flavors of kabocha.
4. Africa: Stewed Dishes and Spicy Flavors
In Africa, autumn (or the end of the rainy season in some regions) is an opportunity to cook dishes rich in flavor. Stews and simmered dishes are prepared with seasonal vegetables such as sweet potatoes, okra and even squash.
- Dish idea:
Vegetable and sweet potato tagine (Morocco) A vegetarian tagine made from sweet potatoes, squash, chickpeas and raisins, flavored with cinnamon, cumin and saffron. This simmered dish, naturally gluten-free, is an invitation to discover the flavors of the Maghreb.
5. Oceania: The Wealth of Products from the Land and Sea
In Oceania, autumn is the ideal season to enjoy fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Comforting dishes are available, often inspired by the surrounding nature.
- Dish idea:
Hāngi (New Zealand, Maori Tradition ) Hāngi is a traditional Māori cooking method where food is cooked slowly underground using heated stones and often prepared for special occasions. But you can recreate this dish in the oven.
Conclusion
Autumn is a season full of flavors and culinary discoveries around the world. From Italy to Japan to Morocco to the United States, every culture celebrates fall with warm, comforting traditional foods. By exploring these gluten-free recipes, you can travel across five continents while enjoying the benefits of seasonal foods.
Little gourmet tip : for gratin dishes, use almond powder or crushed hazelnuts to replace breadcrumbs for a crispy and tasty crust.
And you, what are your favorite dishes in autumn? Share your gluten-free recipes and tips in the comments!
