If you’re a bread lover and have been curious about ciabatta bread, you might be wondering if it contains gluten. Gluten has gained attention in recent years due to its potential effects on health, particularly for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
In this article, we’ll explore the gluten content of ciabatta bread and how it compares to other bread types. So, let’s dive in and find out if ciabatta bread is a suitable choice for your dietary needs.
How Much Gluten Does Ciabatta Bread Have Compared to Other Bread Types?
When it comes to gluten, ciabatta bread falls somewhere in the middle compared to other bread types. It’s important to note that ciabatta bread does contain gluten, but the gluten content can vary depending on the recipe and the brand. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and other grains like barley and rye. It’s what gives bread its structure and elasticity.
Ciabatta bread is made from wheat flour, which naturally contains gluten. However, the texture of ciabatta bread is unique because it undergoes a fermentation process that helps develop its signature irregular holes and chewy crumb. This fermentation process can actually break down some of the gluten proteins, making ciabatta bread slightly lower in gluten compared to other bread types like baguettes or sandwich bread.
So, while ciabatta bread does contain gluten, it may be a more tolerable option for those with mild gluten sensitivities or those looking to reduce their gluten intake. However, it’s important to keep in mind that ciabatta bread is not gluten-free and should be avoided by individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies. Always check the ingredient list or consult with the bakery if you have specific dietary restrictions or concerns about gluten content.
Gluten Free Ciabatta Brands
Schar Regular Ciabatta
For those who follow a gluten-free diet, Schar Regular Ciabatta is a fantastic option. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also dairy-free and high in fiber. With its delicious taste and convenient accessibility, this bread is a great substitute for traditional ciabatta. You can easily find it online through popular retailers like Thrive Market and Amazon.
One remarkable aspect of Schar Regular Ciabatta is that it proudly carries the label “Product of Italy.” This means that it’s made in the very country where the ciabatta recipe originated, ensuring an authentic experience. So, if you’re looking for a gluten-free ciabatta that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture, Schar Regular Ciabatta is definitely worth considering.
Let’s take a look at the ingredients that make up Schar Regular Ciabatta rolls:
- Corn Starch
- Water
- Corn Flour
- Rice Flour
- Psyllium Seed Husk (Vegetable Fiber)
- Dextrose
- Modified Cellulose
- Soy Protein
- Sunflower Oil
- Yeast
- Salt
- Tartaric Acid
- Citric Acid
In terms of nutritional information, one roll of Schar Regular Ciabatta containsL
- Calories: 150
- Total fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total sugar: 2g
- Total carbs: 32g
- Protein: 2g
Schar: the Multigrain Gluten-Free Ciabatta.
Similar to the regular version, this bread is gluten-free and dairy-free, but it offers a delightful twist with the addition of multigrain ingredients.
The ingredients in Schar Multigrain Gluten-Free Ciabatta rolls include:
- Water
- SourDough (Water, Rice Flour)
- Corn Starch
- Buckwheat Flour
- Sunflower Seeds
- Rice Flour
- Flax Seeds
- Caramelized Sugar Cane Syrup
- Psyllium Seed Husks (Vegetable Fiber)
- Rice Starch
- Modified Cellulose
- Apple Juice Concentrate
- Yeast
- Soy Protein
- Sunflower Oil
- Salt
- Tartaric Acid
In terms of nutrition, one roll of Schar Multigrain Gluten-Free Ciabatta contains:
- Calories: 170
- Total fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total sugar: 2g
- Total carbs: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Both the Regular and Multigrain options from Schar provide a tasty and gluten-free alternative to traditional ciabatta bread. Whether you have specific dietary restrictions or simply enjoy exploring new flavors, Schar offers a range of options that deliver on taste, texture, and nutritional value. So, if you’re in the mood for a delicious and gluten-free ciabatta experience, give Schar a try!
Lower Carb Alternatives To Ciabatta Bread
If you’re looking for lower carb alternatives to ciabatta bread, there are several options that can still satisfy your bread cravings while reducing your carbohydrate intake. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Lettuce Wraps: Instead of using bread, you can create delicious and refreshing lettuce wraps. Simply take large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or iceberg, and use them as a wrap for your favorite sandwich fillings. The crispness of the lettuce adds a nice crunch, and you’ll significantly reduce the number of carbs compared to using traditional bread.
- Cloud Bread: Cloud bread is a low-carb bread substitute that’s light, fluffy, and gluten-free. It’s made from a combination of eggs, cream cheese, and a pinch of baking powder. The result is a bread-like texture that can be used for sandwiches or as a base for toppings like avocado or smoked salmon. You can easily find cloud bread recipes online to try it out for yourself.
- Portobello Mushroom Buns: Portobello mushrooms are a great option for creating a bread-free burger experience. Simply remove the stem, season the mushroom cap, and grill or bake it until tender. Then use the grilled mushroom caps as the bun for your burger. Not only will you reduce the carb content, but you’ll also add a delicious earthy flavor to your meal.
By exploring these lower carb alternatives, you can still enjoy your favorite sandwich fillings or burger creations without the excess carbohydrates that come with traditional bread. Experiment with different options to find the ones that suit your taste and dietary preferences best. Remember, making small changes like these can have a big impact on your overall carbohydrate intake and help you achieve your health goals.
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Gluten Free Commercial Bread Alternatives
Is Ciabatta Bread Gluten-Free? (Find Out Now!)
Written by Kristin Marzullo in Bread & Bakery,Gluten Free
Ciabatta bread is known for being crispy on the outside but soft, airy, and chewy on the inside. Most known for dipping it into a seasoned olive oil, or pairing it perfectly with your favorite soup, ciabatta bread is a staple to a good home-cooked meal. However, as of this year roughly 3.2 million people follow a gluten-free diet. Does that leave room for ciabatta at the table? Let’s find out!
Traditional ciabatta bread is not gluten-free. The more bread is kneaded, the more gluten will develop. Ciabatta is kneaded for a long time to reach its chewy and airy texture. But, with more people adopting a gluten-free diet there are alternative ciabattas that are gluten-free. Some of the best are Schar Multigrain Gluten-free Ciabatta and Schar Regular Ciabatta.
In this article, we will discuss the history of ciabatta bread, learn what gluten is and if it’s bad for you, and take a look at the ingredients lists and nutritional values of different ciabatta breads to determine whether or not they are gluten-free. We will also discuss other healthy and gluten-free-friendly ciabatta alternatives. Let’s dig in!
Contents
- What is Ciabatta Bread?
- What is Gluten?
- Popular Ciabatta Breads
- Gluten-Free Ciabatta Brands
- Lower Carb Alternatives To Ciabatta Bread
- Final Thoughts
- Related Questions
What is Ciabatta Bread?
Ciabatta is an Italian bread that was created in 1982 by Arnaldo Cavallari, a miller and baker from a small town close to Venice. At the time Italian bakers were trying to compete with the growing popularity of the French Baguette in their country. In order to keep their businesses from being in danger they set out to create a bread that was similar to the baguette that would be good for sandwiches.
After weeks of testing different bread recipes, the ciabatta came to be. It was unique because it consisted of soft, wet dough with gluten flour. The new bread was called ciabatta Polesano named after Polseine where Cavallari lived. Eventually it was licensed to other bakers in other countries, and is now as popular as we know it today.
What is Gluten?
In short, gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. So any food that has wheat, rye, barley and triticale listed in the ingredients will have gluten.
Scientifically speaking, gluten is a protein made up of two smaller proteins: glutenin and gliadin. When flour gets wet, like when water is added to create dough, glutenin and gliadin combine to make gluten. The gluten is activated by the water and by kneading the dough. When gluten is activated it becomes stretchy, and that’s what gives breads like ciabatta its structure.
However, unless you have celiac disease or are diagnosed with a gluten sensitivity, gluten is not inherently bad for you. People with celiac disease will experience extreme symptoms from even just trace amounts of gluten, and people with a sensitivity, can have similar symptoms but just not as severe. It’s important to consult your doctor if you believe you have trouble tolerating gluten.
Popular Ciabatta Breads
There are many different companies that use ciabatta as staples in their meals. Let’s take a look at a few along with their ingredients and nutritional values.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread is well-known for its ciabatta bread. They boast of a recipe that is “soft, open, and airy on the inside and thinly crispy on the outside.”
It comes included with their Monte Cristo sandwich but you can purchase a roll on its own, or customize your meal to add it. However, this particular brand is not gluten free because it contains wheat.
These are the ingredients found in Panera Bread’s ciabatta bread:
- Enriched Flour (Wheat Flour, Malted Barley Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
- Water
- Whole Wheat Flour
- Contains less than 2% of Ascorbic Acid
- Enzymes
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Cultured Wheat Starch Blend (Cultured Wheat Starch, Wheat Flour, Citric Acid)
- Salt
- Vinegar
- Vital Wheat Gluten
- Yeast
Here is some important nutritional information to note for Panera Bread’s ciabatta (per 1 roll serving):
- Calories: 190
- Total fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 390mg
- Total sugar: 1g
- Total carbs: 35g
- Protein: 6g
Marketside
Marketside is another popular brand known for its ciabatta rolls. Sold in wholesale stores such as Walmart and Target, you can buy a pack of rolls for as little as $2.77 This product, however, is not gluten-free as it does also contain wheat.
These are the ingredients found in Marketside ciabatta rolls:
- Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine mononitrate, Riboflavin, Enzymes, Folic Acid)
- Water
- Salt
- Yeast
- Cultured Corn Sugar (preservative)
- Cultured Cane Sugar (preservative)
- Soybean Oil
- Fava Bean Flour
- Malted Barley Flour
- Datem
- Dextrose
- Mono- And Diglycerides
- Enzymes
- Ascorbic Acid
- L-Cysteine.
Here is some important nutritional information to note for Marketside ciabatta bread (per 1 roll serving):
- Calories: 200
- Total fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 360mg
- Total sugar: 1g
- Total carbs: 40g
- Protein: 7g
Arnold
Pre-cut into sub rolls, Arnold has recently introduced ciabatta rolls to their roster. They ensure that their ciabatta buns will turn your sandwich into a gourmet restaurant experience.
Much like their competitors their bread contains wheat and is not gluten-free.
These are the ingredients found in Arnold ciabatta rolls:
- Enriched Wheat Flour (Flour, Reduced Iron, Niacin, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
- Water
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Sea Salt
- Sugar
- Yeast
- Wheat Gluten
- Enriched Wheat Farina (Farina, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid)
- Preservatives (Calcium Propionate, Sorbic Acid)
- Guar Gum
- Cellulose Gum
- Vinegar
- Monoglycerides
- Datem
- Citric Acid
Here is some important nutritional information to note for Arnold ciabatta rolls (per 1/2 bun serving):
- Calories: 140
- Total fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total sugar: 1g
- Total carbs: 25g
- Protein: 4g
Gluten-Free Ciabatta Brands
Though gluten-free options for ciabatta are less popular there are some options available for people who choose to follow a gluten-free diet. These are different from their competitors because they do not contain wheat, rye, barley, or triticale, and are a safe option for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.
Schar Regular Ciabatta
A certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and high fiber bread, Schar Regular Ciabatta is a tasty alternative to traditional ciabatta breads. Available at online retailers such as Thrive Market and Amazon this bread is easily accessible.
This product’s packaging states it’s a product of Italy which means it’s even produced in the very country the recipe originated!
These are the ingredients found in Schar Regular Ciabatta rolls:
- Corn Starch
- Water
- Corn Flour
- Rice Flour
- Psyllium Seed Husk (Vegetable Fiber)
- Dextrose
- Modified Cellulose
- Soy Protein
- Sunflower Oil
- Yeast
- Salt
- Tartaric Acid
- Citric Acid
Here is some important nutritional information to note for Schar Regular Ciabatta rolls (per 1 roll serving):
- Calories: 150
- Total fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total sugar: 2g
- Total carbs: 32g
- Protein: 2g
Schar Multigrain Gluten-Free Ciabatta
Schar also now has a multigrain option to choose from when enjoying their ciabatta rolls. Though strikingly similar to their regular ciabatta rolls there are a few key differences in this recipe!
It still remains gluten-free and dairy-free but the ingredients and nutritional information is slightly different.
These are the ingredients found in Schar Multigrain Gluten-Free Ciabatta rolls:
- Water
- SourDough (Water, Rice Flour)
- Corn Starch
- Buckwheat Flour
- Sunflower Seeds
- Rice Flour
- Flax Seeds
- Caramelized Sugar Cane Syrup
- Psyllium Seed Husks (Vegetable Fiber)
- Rice Starch
- Modified Cellulose
- Apple Juice Concentrate
- Yeast
- Soy Protein
- Sunflower Oil
- Salt
- Tartaric Acid
Here is some important nutritional information to note for Schar Multigrain Gluten-Free rolls (per 1 roll serving):
- Calories: 170
- Total fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total sugar: 2g
- Total carbs: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Lower Carb Alternatives To Ciabatta Bread
UnBuns Buns
These keto-friendly buns are not only perfect for your burgers and sandwiches, but they also cater to various dietary needs. They are gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free, and paleo, making them a versatile choice for individuals with specific dietary restrictions. These buns offer a higher protein content and lower carb count, allowing you to enjoy your favorite meals without compromising your health goals.
It’s important to note that these buns contain eggs and almonds, which are key ingredients in their recipe. These ingredients contribute to the buns’ texture, taste, and nutritional profile. The inclusion of eggs and almonds ensures that these buns provide a wholesome and satisfying option for individuals seeking a keto-friendly, gluten-free, and protein-packed alternative.
These are the ingredients found in UnBuns buns:
- Blanched almond flour
- Liquid egg white
- Water
- Liquid whole egg
- Ground flax
- Coconut flour
- Psyllium seed husk
- Apple cider vinegar
- Sea salt
- Cream of tartar
- Baking soda
Here is some important nutritional information to note for this brand (per 1 bun serving):
- Calories: 240
- Total fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total carbs: 15g
- Total sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Unbuns Baguettes
This baguette is a protein powerhouse and a gluten-free option that will elevate your sandwich or sub experience. Packed with a remarkable 15g of protein per baguette, it provides a satisfying and nourishing meal. Not only that, but it’s also keto-friendly, making it a suitable choice for individuals following a ketogenic diet.
It’s important to be aware that this product contains eggs and almonds, which are integral ingredients in its recipe. These ingredients contribute to the bread’s protein content, texture, and overall taste. With the inclusion of eggs and almonds, this baguette offers a nutritious option that can help you meet your protein goals while enjoying a delicious sandwich or sub.
These are the ingredients found in UnBuns Baguettes:
- Blanched almond flour
- Liquid egg white
- Water
- Liquid whole egg
- Ground flax
- Coconut flour
- Psyllium seed husk
- Apple cider vinegar
- Sea salt
- Cream of tartar
- Baking soda.
Here is some important nutritional information to note for this brand (per 1 baguette serving):
- Calories: 370
- Total fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 940mg
- Total carbs: 24g
- Total sugar: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Base Culture Keto Bread
This brand is renowned for being the original keto bread. Their gluten-free keto bread is not only keto-friendly but also 100% paleo, grain-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. It’s a versatile bread that offers a moist, filling, and delicious experience. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast toast or a satisfying lunch sandwich, this bread is the perfect choice.
It’s important to note that this product contains eggs and almonds, which are key ingredients in its recipe. These ingredients contribute to the bread’s texture, taste, and overall quality. The inclusion of eggs and almonds ensures that this keto bread provides a wholesome and nutritious option for individuals following a keto or paleo lifestyle
These are the ingredients found in Base Culture Keto Bread:
- Water
- Eggs
- Almond Butter
- Golden Flaxseed Meal
- Arrowroot Flour
- Psyllium Husk Powder
- Almond Flour
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Sea Salt
- Baking Soda
Here is some important nutritional information to note for this brand (per 1 slice serving):
- Calories: 110
- Total fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total carbs: 8g
- Total sugar: 0g
- Protein: 4g
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein that is naturally found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It’s what gives dough its elastic texture and helps bread and other baked goods hold their shape. Gluten consists of two main proteins: glutenin and gliadin. When these proteins combine with water, they form a sticky network that traps air bubbles and gives bread its fluffy texture.
For people with certain health conditions, such as celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause adverse reactions. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This can lead to various digestive symptoms, nutrient deficiencies, and long-term health complications. Gluten sensitivity, on the other hand, refers to individuals who experience similar symptoms to celiac disease but do not have the same immune response or intestinal damage.
It’s important to note that not all grains contain gluten. Grains like rice, corn, and oats are naturally gluten-free. However, oats can often be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing, so it’s essential to look for certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Understanding what gluten is and its effects on the body can help individuals make informed choices about their diet and find suitable alternatives if necessary.
Final Thoughts
While ciabatta bread does contain gluten, its gluten content is generally lower compared to other bread types. This can make it a more manageable option for individuals with mild gluten sensitivities or those looking to reduce their gluten intake. However, it’s crucial to remember that ciabatta bread is not gluten-free and should be avoided by individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten allergies.
If you’re seeking lower carb alternatives to ciabatta bread, there are plenty of creative options to explore. Lettuce wraps, cloud bread, and portobello mushroom buns can provide a satisfying bread substitute while reducing your carbohydrate intake. These alternatives can add variety to your meals and open up new possibilities for delicious and healthier options.
Remember to always check ingredient lists and consult with professionals or bakeries if you have specific dietary restrictions or concerns about gluten content. Making informed choices about your food can help you maintain a balanced diet and enjoy your meals while considering your health needs