Understanding Celiac Disease: Our Story
Nine years ago, my husband received a Celiac disease diagnosis that transformed not just our personal kitchen, but would eventually lead us to discover Einkorn flour for our Michigan B&B, Inisfree Estate. What began as a health challenge evolved into an opportunity to enhance our bed & breakfast experience, particularly for guests with dietary restrictions.
The journey started when my husband experienced frequent digestive issues and unexplained weight loss. After losing 18 pounds and enduring another difficult episode, he finally sought medical help. During a vacation in Nantucket, we received confirmation of his Celiac diagnosis through a simple blood test. His doctor’s advice was straightforward: eliminate gluten entirely, including beer. True to the doctor’s prediction, his health improved dramatically within days of going gluten-free.
The Challenge of Gluten-Free Baking at Our Michigan B&B
As both a passionate baker and innkeeper, this dietary shift presented a unique challenge. While gluten-free flours were readily available, none truly captured the texture and satisfaction of traditional wheat flour baking. Some recipes adapted well to gluten-free alternatives, but others – particularly guest favorites like homemade biscuits and pie crusts – lost their magic. I knew I needed a solution that would maintain our commitment to exceptional breakfast experiences at Inisfree.
Why We Chose Einkorn Flour for Our Bed & Breakfast
A friend’s suggestion led us to discover Einkorn flour, specifically Jovial’s Einkorn Flour, and it changed everything. This ancient variety of wheat offers several unique advantages:
- Different gluten structure than modern wheat
- Never treated with glyphosate (unlike most United States wheat crops)
- Perfect for traditional European-style baking
- Maintains the texture and taste we love
- Often better tolerated by those with gluten sensitivities
- Ideal for creating the elevated breakfast experience our guests expect
Important Note for Readers with Celiac Disease: This post describes our personal experience and is not medical advice. Einkorn wheat does contain gluten and is not technically considered safe for those with Celiac disease according to medical guidelines. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.
Transforming Our Bed & Breakfast Menu
Two years ago, we began incorporating Einkorn flour into our bed & breakfast menu at Inisfree Estate. The results exceeded our expectations – not only did our baked goods regain their beloved texture and taste, but my husband’s Celiac symptoms remained well-managed. We’ve since expanded our use of European flours that are low in gluten, non-GMO, and organic, occasionally incorporating small amounts of xanthan gum where needed for optimal texture. What’s particularly remarkable is how versatile Einkorn flour has proven to be – we’ve successfully replaced conventional all-purpose flour in everything from breakfast pastries to sauces and egg dishes, all without triggering any Celiac symptoms for my husband.
Serving Our Guests at Inisfree Estate
Our approach to dietary restrictions at Inisfree Estate reflects both professional dedication and personal understanding. Here’s what our guests can expect:
- Detailed ingredient transparency
- Fresh, house-made breakfast daily with farm to table ingredients
- Accommodation of all dietary restrictions
- Special attention to Celiac needs
- Custom menu options upon request
- Safe, thoughtfully prepared meals
Important Considerations for Celiac Guests
It’s crucial to note that while Einkorn flour has worked wonderfully in our situation, it might not be for everyone with Celiac disease. Each person’s sensitivity to gluten is unique, and we always recommend consulting with healthcare providers before making dietary changes. At Inisfree Estate, we’re happy to discuss ingredients and preparation methods to ensure every guest’s comfort and safety.
Looking Forward
Our journey with Einkorn flour has not only transformed our personal lives – making baking and cooking fun again – but has enhanced the entire Inisfree Estate breakfast experience. We’re excited to continue sharing this discovery with our guests and creating memorable breakfast experiences for everyone who stays with us. Stay tuned for future posts where we’ll share some of our most requested breakfast recipes that have become guest favorites at Inisfree Estate.
UPDATE: Here are some of those recipes! 🙂
Blog Post: Signature Breakfast Recipes: The Heart of Inisfree Estate’s Morning Table
