Grains are a large part of many diets and are present in meals all throughout the nation. We all know and generally consume grains, but what are they? The edible dry seeds are either considered cereals or legumes. You’re likely to consume grains in several foods you enjoy, like in crackers, pasta, tortillas, and more. You probably know about the likes of wheat and oats, which are used to make other foods. But have you ever prepared millet, buckwheat, or barley? There is a whole world of grains to explore and enjoy in your diet!

All About Grains

Grains are a part of many diets for their nutrients and health benefits. Protein and fiber are especially a couple big reasons to eat them. Whole grains specifically provide these nutrients, which help maintain digestion and keep you full. While it’s recommended to consume multiple servings daily, it’s not always easy to make that happen. Check out this guide by the USDA and Dietary Guidelines for Americans to better understand how much grains you should eat everyday.

Grains at Tacoma Boys

Tacoma Boys offers a wide selection of different grains in addition to all of the other vital ingredients for a healthy and complete meal. Next time you’re grocery shopping, consider picking up one of these to incorporate into your diet:

• RiceSelect CousCous 
• Ancient Harvest Traditional Quinoa
• Lundberg White Arborio Rice or Wild Rice
• Lotus Foods Basmati Rice
• Albers Enriched Hominy Quick Grits
• Bob’s Red Mill Whole Grain Rolled Oats

Bob’s Red Mill is an Oregon producer of grains, seeds, flours, and more: Tacoma Boys carries a wide variety of Bob’s Red Mill whole grains and other products to meet your needs. This includes Bob’s Red Mill Red Bulgur, Sorghum, Pearl Barley, Organic Farro, and much more.

What are Gluten Free Grains?

It’s not hard to enjoy gluten free grains because most whole grains are naturally without gluten. This means quinoa, brown rice, buckwheat, sorghum, oats, corn, and more are all okay to eat if you’re avoiding gluten. These grains are easy to cook and naturally gluten free. Wheat, including wheat berries, spelt, bulgur, and farro do contain gluten as they all come from the wheat species. While many people avoid gluten because of celiacs disease or other reasons, there are still many gluten free grains to enjoy! 

For example, try Pow! Red Lentil Linguine in this recipe for pasta primavera by the Modern Proper. Tacoma Boys also offers Annie’s Quinoa Rice Pasta & White Cheddar and Ancient Harvest Quinoa Supergrain gluten free mac and cheese mixes. These boxed mac and cheese mixes are produced with a gluten free pasta that’s used as an alternative to traditional pasta that is made with wheat, and therefore gluten. 

Whole Grain Recipes

You probably often prepare and eat whole grain recipes: They’re quick to make, easy to digest, and versatile as ever. From rice, to bread, to pasta, oats, and more, there are so many different ways to enjoy whole grains! And you’ve quite likely heard all the talk surrounding whole grains. They’re good for you because they’re full of nutrients, protein, and fiber. For a well-rounded diet, most people should consume whole grains alongside protein and plenty of fruits and vegetables. When making whole grain recipes, you’ll want to make sure you have these elements within the dish. It can be simple and easy when starting with your grain base and working from there! Read on for a few examples of delicious and filling whole grain recipes. 

• Oatmeal is simple to make and widely customizable. Try adding in a mix of dried cranberries, nuts, seeds, yogurt, fresh fruit, or Field Day Organics Peanut Butter. 
• Whip up a big batch of hearty soup fit with vegetables, beans like Farmer Direct Organic Split Green Peas, and whole grains like quinoa. Then, enjoy the prepared meal as lunch throughout the week. For a guide on all the ins and outs of making soup with Tacoma Boys, check out our blog here.
• For a quick and easy recipe, grab a pack of Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa & Brown Rice. Heat it up alongside some Eden Organic Black Beans, steamed vegetables, and Las Palmas Enchilada Sauce for a complete meal packed with flavor and protein.
• Pasta night can be made simple with Delallo Organic Whole Wheat Elbow Pasta, a large head of roasted broccoli, and Monte Bene Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce, or for a white sauce, Newman’s Own Alfredo.
• Dave’s Killer Bread is a prime base to any sandwich: Try this Greek Avocado Sandwich by Cookie and Kate for a filling summer lunch.

Swing By Tacoma Boys

Come over to Tacoma Boys to get your hands on some grains and to get cookin.’ Whether you’re looking for gluten free grains, whole grains, or more, Tacoma Boys is stocked with a large selection. This is in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and seafood, and specialty food products to make your meals delicious. To stay up to date on insider deals and specials, sign up for Tacoma Boys’ text list. Just text (253) 246-1661 to tell Paul you want to be on the list!

Do your dietary restrictions always make you feel like you’re missing out? Have no fear! Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce’s wide selection of certified gluten free foods will have you packing snacks that’ll make your friends jealous, for a change.

According to a recent study, the number of people choosing to avoid gluten in their diets has tripled since 2009. People making this choice include those with a severe gluten allergy and those who report they simply feel better without it. Nevertheless, if you find yourself on a gluten free journey, we’re sure you’ve already noticed: it’s a tough trail to trek down. Going gluten free in a wheat filled world is not for the faint of heart, and it can be hard to find foods that fit into your diet, let alone ones that are actually tasty. We have good news! Our gluten free aisle is packed with a huge selection of certified GF brands and products, so you’re sure to find a snack or two to love! Here are a few of our favorites to get you started.

Tacoma Boys Guide to Going Gluten Free

Wake Up to a World of Gluten Free Breakfast

Breakfast is a veritable minefield of flour-packed foods–cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy, pancakes and waffles…the list goes on. While this may make most people’s mouths water, it can leave those seeking a gluten free life in a lurch longing for something tasty of their own. Luckily, we have just the things you need to start your day off right and keep living free. 

Van’s Waffles

Wake up to waffles with this buttery, syrupy childhood favorite. Out of the box, into the toaster and onto your plate, you’ll love being a kid again. With flavors like Ancient Grains, Apple Cinnamon and Blueberry, Van’s Waffles are a gluten free favorite the whole family will love. 

Geefree’s Breakfast Pockets

Think Hot Pockets, but without the gluten. You’ll find these sausage, egg & cheese filled packets of lava hot deliciousness in our GF freezer section. All the fast, easy convenience of a microwave breakfast with none of the gluten. 

Purely Elizabeth Nut Butter Granola

A snack perfect for on the go, hiking with a friend, or in a bowl with milk, Purely Elizabeth’s certified GF Nut Butter Granola is the way to go. We carry both original and maple almond butter flavors. Layer with fruit and yogurt for a healthy GF breakfast to fuel your day. 

Sweet Treats Without the Wheat

Tired of the endless effort it takes to prepare gluten free desserts for yourself or a GF loved one? Constantly monitoring ingredients and nutrition labels is no simple task. So we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite GF desserts to make your life a bit easier and to help you live free. 

Munk Pack Protein Cookies 

These cookies are packed with 16 grams of plant based protein, without soy, egg, dairy or gluten. With flavor options like Coconut White Chip Macadamia Nut, Snickerdoodle, Double Dark Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip, and Oatmeal Raisin Spice, you’ll be sure to find your new favorite pre-workout snack. 

PNW Cookies

PNW Cookie Company makes gluten free, soy free and vegan cookies right here in the PNW! Choose from Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate, Molasses, Oatmeal & Raisin, Peanut Butter, and Snickerdoodle and feel great about supporting local business. 

Olivia Superfree

Olivia Superfree is also a local company, based right here in Washington. From dinner rolls to apple pie, they’re experts at creating food that actually tastes good. In addition to being gluten free, they also avoid other common allergens found in most foods. In our freezer section, you’ll find their cupcakes (Double Chocolate and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough), muffins (Blueberry Lemon), fudge brownies, and pie (Dutch Apple and Blackberry), all certified gluten free, all ready to serve at your next summer gathering! 

No Time Like Snack Time

Looking for snacks to grab for your next road trip or movie night? There are times when you just want to kick back with a convenient snack without all the label scanning, and we have you covered with these great GF snack time favorites. 

Bobo’s Oat Bars 

Great for an afternoon snack when you need something to tide you over until dinner, Bobo’s oat bars are a baked oatmeal snack bar that won’t disappoint. They come in flavors like Apple Pie, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Raisin. This snack is great dipped in milk or all by itself.

Milton’s Baked Crackers

A favorite for all, including those in the non-GF world, you won’t believe the satisfying crisp and bold flavor of Milton’s GF Baked Crackers. Try them in Crispy Sea Salt, Fire Roasted Vegetable, Multi-Grain, Olive Oil & Sea Salt, and Everything flavors. Great with cheese and pepper jam! You won’t regret eating these straight out of the bag or adding them to your next charcuterie board. 

Kinnikinnick Graham Crackers and Animal Crackers

For the kid in your life or the kid in your heart, Kinnikinnick has all your childhood favorites. In the mood for smores? Try their S’moreables Graham Style Crackers. Or fill a bowl with their Kinni Kritters Animal Crackers (Vanilla, Chocolate and Graham) and dunk them in a glass of milk for a truly nostalgic moment. 

Get Back Into Baking!

One of the trickiest areas to navigate sans gluten is the baking world. If you’ve been at this a while, maybe you already have a tried and true favorite brand or flour combination. Or maybe you’re new to the GF life and need a good jumping off point. Either way, Tacoma Boys and H&L produce are sure to have what you need. 

Namaste 

Free from the top 8 allergens, you can’t go wrong with Namaste baking mixes. We carry their Waffle & Pancake Mix, Bread & Roll Mix, and Pizza Crust Mix. So instead of starting your next baking project from scratch, make life a little easier with one of Namaste’s baking mixes. 

Bob’s Red Mill

For a bolder approach, you can make it from scratch with Bob’s Red Mill. Whether you need Casava, Amaranthe, Arrowroot Starch, Corn, Teff or Garbanza and Fava Flour, Bob’s Red Mill makes it, and we sell it. Try their brownie, chocolate cake, or chocolate chip cookie mix. Mix, bake, and enjoy!

The Main Course, of Course

And finally, our list wouldn’t be complete without some highlights from our heartier, less sweet dinner options. While dinners can be easier to navigate (since there’s typically a meat and/or veggie component), there are still those sides and convenience dinners you’re bound to miss after some time eating gluten free. Well, we’ve thought of that too. 

Daiya Deluxe Cheezy Mac

Of all the things you have to do without when you go gluten free, macaroni and cheese might be the deepest cut. Lucky for you, Daiya Deluxe Cheesy Mac comes in cheddar and Alfredo flavors. And both are gluten and dairy free. Serve up some Daiya Cheezy Mac as a side at your next get together and enjoy the cheesy goodness you know and love. 

Jovial GF Pastas 

With a wide range of GF pastas, Jovial has what you need. Whether your next Italian dish calls for Farfalle, Fusilli, Caserece, or Manicotti, your food allergy won’t limit you anymore. Keep calm and noodle on. 

Evol Single Serve Bowls

After a long day at work, you don’t want to cook, but you still have to eat. Since the invention of microwave meals, your non-GF counterparts have had the option of reaching for a single serve meal to enjoy in minutes, and now you do too. Evol is committed to putting real food in frozen meals. So your Smoked Gouda Chicken Mac & Cheese, Uncured Bacon Mac & Cheese, or Chicken Enchilada Bake Fire Grilled Steak Microwave Meal will taste the way food is supposed to taste–delicious, real, and real delicious. 

Our Commitment to Helping You Live Gluten Free

So whether you’re a GF pro with all your favorite brands as familiar as the back of your hand, or you’re just looking for some option that have less gluten in them, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce are your one stop shop for GF foods that are healthy, tasty, and often locally made! Stop by today and browse our gluten free aisle or ask one of our friendly store associates about our many gluten free options and see the many ways we’re committed to helping you live healthy, happy, and free. 

Eating the recommended 1-3 cups of vegetables a day can be a daunting and sometimes unappetizing prospect, especially if your taste buds aren’t on board.  Luckily, there are many simple and delicious ways to trick yourself into getting all you need. Check out these seven ways veggies made great can help you sneak them in, and maybe even enjoy them!

If the idea of snacking on a head of raw broccoli doesn’t sound like your idea of a good time, you may be like the 90% of Americans who aren’t eating enough vegetables.  If you think of vegetables as nothing more than an unpleasant obligation, maybe it’s time to try some of the many ways veggies made great can revolutionize your eating habits. From breakfast to dinner and every snack in between, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have everything you need to get all the veggies you need in a day.

Tricking Your Tastebuds

1. Start your morning with a smoothie

If starting your day with a mouth full of raw spinach seems like a rough way to begin, try easing yourself into your morning with a smoothie you’ll actually enjoy, and likely start to crave. Start with a cup or two of raw spinach or kale in your blender. You’d be surprised at how much you can pack into a single serving! Add one banana (or some of our fresh berries), a half cup of vanilla yogurt, one frozen banana, and half a cup of milk or almond milk. Blend and add more milk or yogurt to your desired consistency. Now you’ve already had one serving of vegetables and one serving of fruit, and you’re just getting started!

2. Saute some vegetables into a breakfast scramble

Maybe you prefer to start your day with something savory rather than sweet. A great way to get your morning started with veggies made great is by adding them to an egg scramble. Start by sauteing chopped onions and garlic in olive oil. Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, peppers, oven roasted tomatoes and cheese. So many veggies in one delicious meal! Who says breakfast can’t be fancy?

3. Snack on crunchy Kale Chips

If you crave the salty crunch of chips, you’ll find yourself reaching for these Baked Kale Chips as a regular mid-afternoon snack. Why settle for bagged potato chips when you can delight your taste buds and tummy with something that’s actually good for you? Start by trimming the leaves from the stem of your kale. Discard the stem and chop the leaves into 1-inch pieces. Toss in enough vegetable oil to coat. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and sprinkle generously with sea salt. Bake at 350℉ for 10-15 minutes, until the edges are brown, but not burnt. Snack away!

4. Dip your veggies in a healthier alternative to ranch

Love ranch but hate the calories? Here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce, we carry a great selection of Walden Farms salad dressings. These calorie-free, fat-free, gluten-free dressings will have you dipping and snacking on baby carrots, juicy grape tomatoes, and red peppers to your heart’s content without adding to your waistline.

5. Have a side of sweet potato fries

Why should you choose sweet potato fries over regular fries? Sweet potatoes have more health benefits than white potatoes, including more vitamin A and fewer calories. Make your own sweet potato fries with this recipe from The New York Times, or pick up a bag from our frozen section here at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Add sweet potato fries to the menu next time you make burgers or sliders and see how veggies made great can elevate your dinner experience.

6. Create gourmet pizzas at home with cauliflower pizza dough

What’s better than homemade pizza? Homemade pizza that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. You can find cauliflower pizza dough at Tacoma Boys and H&L produce. You’ll love this gluten-free, tasty alternative to traditional pizza dough. Top it with whatever you’d like, and enjoy guilt free! If you’re feeling ambitious, try the Chicken Pesto Pizza recipe from our blog.

7. Try cauliflower rice as a substitute for white rice

This delicious alternative to plain rice adds sophistication to any dinner. While white rice can serve as a bit of a bland placeholder, cauliflower rice is a flavorful side you’ll want to make again and again. Much lower in calories and carbs than its white rice counterpart, you can load up on cauliflower rice and get all the fiber and Vitamin B this vegetable has to offer. Pick up a head of cauliflower from our produce section at Tacoma Boys or H&L Produce and try this recipe from Minimalist Baker, or grab a bag of frozen cauliflower rice from our frozen section. For even more veggies made great, saute stir-fry veggies in olive oil, top with teriyaki sauce, and enjoy over a bowl of cauliflower rice.

Where to find great produce locally?

Adding vegetables to your diet every day has numerous benefits, from boosting your immune system, energy level, and mood to improving your skin and eye health. So where can you find the best produce for your family? Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce buys produce directly from the source, and it’s often grown locally, so you can feel great about the quality of the vegetables you’re eating. Your breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and dinners are sure to impress with the flavor, color, and nutrition you get from veggies made great.  So why not give one or two of these ideas a try? For the best selection of produce, there’s no better place to shop locally than Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. Come in and speak to our knowledgeable staff for help selecting the best vegetables from our produce section today!