If you’re in the United States or Canada, there’s a high chance that you’ve heard of Culver’s. They are famous for their butter burgers, custards, and their universally loved side dish – french fries. But if you’re someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, you might be skeptical about consuming Culver’s fries. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Culver’s fries and whether they are gluten-free or not.
What are Culver’s fries made of?
Culver’s fries are made from potatoes, oil, and salt. The potatoes are cut into thin strips, and then cooked in oil until they are crispy and golden brown. The fries are seasoned with salt, which enhances their flavor.
Are Culver’s fries gluten-free?
The base ingredients of Culver’s fries – potatoes, oil, and salt – are all gluten-free. However, the frying process poses a risk of cross-contamination with gluten-containing food items. Culver’s fries are cooked in a shared fryer with other gluten-containing items like onion rings, chicken tenders, and fried cheese curds. This means that Culver’s fries are not considered gluten-free by the company and are not recommended for people with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
Can people with a mild gluten sensitivity consume Culver’s fries?
While Culver’s fries are not suitable for people with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, people with a mild gluten sensitivity might be able to consume them safely. However, it’s recommended to exercise caution, as cross-contamination can occur easily in the kitchen. If you have a mild gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance, you can request the staff to change their gloves and use a fresh batch of oil to fry your order, which can reduce the risk of cross-contamination significantly.
What other options are there for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity at Culver’s?
If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it’s best to avoid Culver’s fries altogether. But a few other options are available on their menu that are safe for people with gluten intolerance. Culver’s offers gluten-free buns and lettuce wraps for their burgers, and they also have a gluten-free chicken sandwich. Additionally, they have a comprehensive allergen guide on their website that lists all the ingredients and potential allergens for each menu item.
Can you make gluten-free fries at home?
Yes, you can make gluten-free fries at home easily. The trick is to use a separate fryer or oil that is gluten-free. You can use a deep fryer or a cast-iron skillet to fry your fries. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some gluten-free seasoning on your fries.
What are some gluten-free seasoning blends you can use on your fries?
There are plenty of gluten-free seasoning blends available in the market that you can use on your fries. Some popular options are:
- Garlic and Herb Seasoning
- Barbecue Seasoning
- Cheesy Popcorn Seasoning
- Chili Lime Seasoning
You can also create your seasoning blend by combining your favorite spices and herbs.
Conclusion
Culver’s fries are not considered gluten-free by the company, as they are cooked in a shared fryer with other gluten-containing items. However, people with a mild gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance might be able to consume them safely by requesting special precautions from the staff. In case you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, it’s recommended to avoid Culver’s fries altogether. However, Culver’s offers several other gluten-free options like buns, lettuce wraps, and allergen guides that can help make your dining experience better.
FAQ
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Q: Are Culver’s fries gluten-free?
A: While the base ingredients of Culver’s fries are gluten-free, they are not considered gluten-free by the company, as they are cooked in a shared fryer with other gluten-containing items. -
Q: Can people with celiac disease consume Culver’s fries?
A: It’s recommended for people with celiac disease to avoid Culver’s fries altogether, as they are cooked in a shared fryer with other gluten-containing items. -
Q: What are some gluten-free seasoning blends you can use on your fries?
A: Some popular gluten-free seasoning blends for fries are garlic and herb, barbecue, cheesy popcorn, chili lime, or you can create your blend.
References:
- https://www.culvers.com/menu-and-nutrition/allergen-info
- https://www.verywellfit.com/gluten-free-fast-food-562431
- https://www.thespruceeats.com/gluten-free-french-fries-recipe-1451128