My Journey with Gluten-Free Flours: From Confusion to Confidence in the Kitchen

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My Journey with Gluten-Free Flours: From Confusion to Confidence in the Kitchen

Last updated: [June 2025]
By: Heal & Glow with Gluten Free Foods


🌟 Why I Switched to Gluten-Free Flours

For years, I struggled with unexplained bloating, fatigue, and constant skin breakouts. It wasn’t until I removed gluten from my diet that I realized how much better I could feel. But one question lingered:

“What do I cook with now?”

Growing up, wheat flour (atta) was at the heart of every meal—rotis, parathas, cakes, and sweets. Giving that up felt like saying goodbye to comfort itself. But slowly, as I experimented with different gluten-free flours, I found new favorites that healed my gut and satisfied my cravings.

This blog is for anyone starting their gluten-free journey—especially if you're wondering how to bake, cook, and thrive without wheat.

The Gluten-Free Flours That Changed Everything

Here are the top gluten-free flours that became pantry staples in my home—along with how I use each one.

1. Jowar Flour (Sorghum) – My Everyday Roti Savior

✅ Gluten-Free, High in Fiber, Great for Gut Health

Jowar became my go-to for soft, light rotis. It pairs beautifully with any Indian curry or sabzi and is much easier to digest than wheat. Once I learned to roll it properly, there was no turning back.

Favorite recipe:
➡️ Masala Jowar Roti with ajwain and coriander

Did you know ?

Jowar flour, also known as sorghum flour, is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber. A 60g serving (about 0.5 cup) contains approximately 48 grams of total carbohydrates, including 4 grams of dietary fiber, according to MyNetDiary

2. Bajra Flour (Pearl Millet) – Winter Warmth on a Plate

✅ Iron-Rich, Warming, and Perfect for Khichdi or Rotis

This flour is ideal for colder months. Bajra roti with saag or jaggery-ghee is the kind of comfort food that heals from within.

How I use it:
➡️ Bajra methi thepla, khichdi, or dosa base

3. Ragi Flour (Finger Millet) – The Superfood in Disguise

✅ Calcium-Packed, Diabetic-Friendly, Versatile

Ragi porridge was my entry point, but I now use it in pancakes, laddoos, and even savory chillas. It’s filling, earthy, and perfect for breakfast.

Bonus: Great for kids and elders too!

4. Buckwheat Flour (Kuttu) – Not Just for Fasting

✅ Anti-inflammatory, High in Magnesium

Once reserved for Navratri, buckwheat flour now makes regular appearances in my pancakes, chillas, and puris.

Favorite combo:
➡️ Kuttu pancakes with mashed banana and cinnamon

5. Chickpea Flour (Besan) – My Go-To for Savory Cravings

✅ Protein-Rich, Versatile, Easily Available

From pakoras to chillas to dhokla—besan is the most adaptable GF flour in my kitchen. It has a slightly nutty flavor and holds well in both savory and sweet dishes.

6. Almond & Coconut Flour – Baking Game-Changers

✅ Low Carb, Grain-Free, Naturally Sweet

I discovered these when trying to bake gluten-free desserts. Almond flour adds richness; coconut flour gives fiber. Combined, they make beautiful muffins, cookies, and even rotis.

Caution: They behave differently from wheat—so follow specific recipes!

7. Rice Flour & Tapioca Starch – The Texture Twins

✅ Great for Binding, Light, and Neutral-Flavored

These are perfect for crispy dosas, dumplings, or as thickeners in sauces and soups. I also use them in gluten-free atta mixes for structure.

📋 Tips for Using Gluten-Free Flours in Indian Cooking

  1. Blend flours for better texture (e.g., jowar + rice + tapioca)

  2. Use hot water to knead for softer rotis

  3. Add psyllium husk or flax meal to help binding

  4. Store in cool, airtight containers—GF flours can go stale quickly

  5. Buy certified gluten-free brands to avoid contamination

💡 FAQs: Gluten-Free Flour Edition

Can I use gluten-free flours for baking cakes and cookies?
Yes, but follow recipes that are specifically tested for gluten-free baking.

Are all millet flours gluten-free?
Yes—jowar, bajra, and ragi are naturally gluten-free.

What is the best flour for soft rotis?
Jowar + rice flour mix gives the softest rotis with practice.

💛 From Overwhelm to Empowerment

At first, I thought gluten-free living would be about restrictions. But it turned out to be a journey of rediscovery—of ancient grains, forgotten traditions, and foods that truly nourish me.

I still get excited when I find a new flour or try a recipe that surprises me. If you're starting this journey too, remember:
🌾 You’re not giving up food—you’re reclaiming your health.

📌 Pin This for Later & Share with a Friend

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