Portland is known for its diverse food scene, including its delicious tacos. For those who have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding tasty gluten free options can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore some of the best places in Portland to enjoy gluten free tacos, so that everyone can experience the city’s amazing cuisine.
The Rise of Gluten-Free Tacos
The gluten-free movement has been growing in popularity over the past decade, and it’s no surprise that tacos have joined the trend. Portland, known for its foodie culture, has embraced gluten-free tacos with open arms. But what exactly are gluten-free tacos? Simply put, they’re tacos made without wheat flour, which contains gluten. Instead, they use alternative ingredients like corn, rice, or almond flour, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
My Personal Experience with Gluten-Free Tacos
I remember the first time I tried a gluten-free taco. I was hesitant at first, thinking that it might not taste as good as a traditional taco. But I was pleasantly surprised! The texture was different, but the flavor was still there. I felt lighter and more energized after eating a gluten-free taco, which was a game-changer for me. As someone who loves tacos but also wants to eat healthy, gluten-free tacos have become a staple in my diet.
The Best Places for Gluten-Free Tacos in Portland
If you’re in Portland and looking for some delicious gluten-free tacos, you’re in luck! There are plenty of places that offer them. Here are some of my favorites:
Key takeaway: Gluten-free tacos have become a popular and healthy option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, and Portland offers a variety of delicious gluten-free taco spots like ¿Por Qué No?, Taqueria Nueve, and La Taq. Making gluten-free tacos at home is easy with a simple recipe for gluten-free chicken tacos that can be topped with your favorites like avocado, salsa, and cilantro.
¿Por Qué No?
¿Por Qué No? is a popular taqueria in Portland that offers a variety of tacos, including gluten-free options. Their gluten-free tortillas are made with a blend of corn and rice flour, and they’re the perfect base for their flavorful fillings, like carne asada and grilled fish. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsas, too!
Taqueria Nueve
Taqueria Nueve is another great spot for gluten-free tacos in Portland. Their tortillas are made with almond flour, which gives them a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture. They offer a range of fillings, from traditional pork and chicken to vegetarian options like roasted squash and black beans.
La Taq
La Taq is a newer addition to the Portland taco scene, but they’ve already made a name for themselves with their tasty gluten-free options. Their tortillas are made with a blend of corn and wheat flour, but they’re careful to keep cross-contamination to a minimum. Their fillings are creative and delicious, like their Korean BBQ beef and their vegan jackfruit.
Making Gluten-Free Tacos at Home
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try making gluten-free tacos at home, it’s easier than you might think! Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Gluten-Free Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 gluten-free tortillas
- Toppings of your choice (avocado, salsa, cilantro, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub chicken thighs with spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove skillet from oven and let chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium-high heat.
- Assemble tacos with chicken and toppings of your choice.
FAQs for Gluten Free Tacos in Portland
What are gluten-free tacos?
Gluten-free tacos are tacos that do not contain any gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. To make gluten-free tacos, restaurants use alternative flours or ingredients that do not contain gluten. It’s important to note that other ingredients used in taco fillings, such as soy sauce or flour tortillas, may also contain gluten. Therefore, it’s crucial to verify that all taco elements are gluten-free before ordering.
Where can I find gluten-free tacos in Portland?
Portland has many restaurants that offer gluten-free tacos. Some places that are known to have gluten-free options are ¿Por Qué No?, La Taq, and Mi Mero Mole. It’s always best to call in advance to confirm that they can cater to your dietary restrictions.
How can I confirm if the taco is gluten-free?
You can confirm with the server or chef that the taco is gluten-free. Some restaurants will also have a separate menu or mark the gluten-free items on their menu. Additionally, you can ask if the taco is prepared in a separate area of the kitchen to ensure that there is no cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.
What are some common gluten-free taco fillings?
Common gluten-free taco fillings include grilled or shredded meats such as chicken, pork, and beef. Other options may include vegetarian or vegan fillings such as grilled vegetables, beans, and tofu. It’s essential to note that toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and other sauces may contain gluten, so it’s vital to verify that they are gluten-free before adding them to your taco.
Is there a price difference for gluten-free tacos?
Prices for gluten-free tacos may vary depending on the restaurant and the ingredients used. Some restaurants may charge extra for gluten-free options due to the use of alternative ingredients. It’s always best to call in advance or check the menu to see if there is a price difference. However, supporting these restaurants and purchasing gluten-free tacos helps raise awareness for dietary restrictions and supports businesses that cater to people with dietary restrictions.