Where to find ready-made gluten-free dough balls
For those who prefer convenience, the market offers several high-quality, pre-made gluten-free dough ball options. These are perfect for busy individuals or anyone hesitant about baking from scratch.
- Ooni: This brand sells frozen, pre-portioned Italian gluten-free dough balls, which can be safely refrozen without compromising the final product. They are certified gluten-free, with a balanced flour blend designed for exceptional lightness.
- Great Balls of Flour: This UK-based company offers frozen, individually wrapped gluten-free pizza dough balls that mimic traditional wheat flour dough, providing a satisfyingly crispy base.
- Schar: Known for a wide range of gluten-free products, Schar also produces gluten-free dough balls, available through various distributors.
- Wholly_GF: Their frozen gluten-free pizza dough balls are made from a mix of ancient grains and other wholesome ingredients.
- PizzaExpress: The popular restaurant chain famously offers gluten-free dough balls on their menu, having specifically trained staff and introduced GF flour into their kitchens to cater to those with celiac disease.
How to choose frozen gluten-free dough
When purchasing frozen dough balls, consider the following:
- Preparation Instructions: Different brands may require varying defrosting and cooking methods. Always read the packaging carefully.
- Ingredient Transparency: Check the ingredient list to ensure it suits your specific dietary needs, especially for other common allergens like dairy or nuts.
- Taste and Texture: Reviews can offer insight into whether the dough provides a crispy, light, or chewy result, helping you choose the right product for your preference.
How to make your own gluten-free dough balls at home
Creating homemade gluten-free dough balls allows for full control over ingredients and flavor. Two popular methods exist: a traditional yeast-based recipe and a simpler, no-yeast version.
A simple 3-ingredient no-yeast recipe
One of the easiest methods uses a combination of gluten-free self-raising flour and a thick yogurt, such as Greek or natural yogurt.
- Preheat your oven and line a baking tray.
- Combine equal weights of gluten-free self-raising flour and natural yogurt in a bowl.
- Mix until a sticky dough forms, then use your hands to bring it into a ball.
- Roll the dough into small balls and bake until golden brown.
Tips for baking perfect homemade dough balls
Making gluten-free dough requires some technique adjustments due to the absence of gluten, the protein responsible for elasticity in traditional dough.
- Use Binders: Because gluten-free flour lacks elasticity, you will need a binder. Xanthan gum or psyllium husk powder are common choices that mimic the effect of gluten. Many pre-made GF flour blends already include these.
- Handle Sticky Dough: Gluten-free dough can be stickier than its traditional counterpart. Oiling your hands and work surface can help manage the dough and prevent it from sticking.
- Allow for Hydration: Giving the dough a brief resting period (around 15-20 minutes) after mixing allows the starches to properly hydrate, making it easier to handle and preventing a gritty texture.
- Proofing: If using a yeast recipe, the dough may rise faster than you'd expect, so monitor it closely.
Choosing the right gluten-free flour blend
The success of your homemade dough balls hinges on the right flour blend. A single type of flour is often insufficient, as each brings different properties to the final product.
Popular Gluten-Free Flours for Dough Balls
| Flour Type | Key Properties | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Caputo Gluten Free Flour | Soft, light texture; blend of rice and potato starch | Yeast-based doughs for soft pizza bases and dough balls |
| All-Purpose GF Blend | Versatile, often contains xanthan gum | Most recipes, from no-yeast to cakes |
| Chickpea (Gram) Flour | Dense, nutty flavor, high protein; highly absorbent | Adds structure and flavour; good in smaller amounts |
| Brown Rice Flour | High fiber, nutty flavor; can add crispness | Adds crispness when blended with other flours |
| Tapioca Flour | Fine, white starch; adds chewiness and elasticity | Key for improving texture and elasticity when used in blends |
Conclusion
For those seeking gluten-free dough balls, numerous avenues offer a delicious solution. From readily available frozen options by brands like Ooni and Schar to restaurant offerings from PizzaExpress, convenience is no longer a barrier. For the home baker, crafting your own is both accessible and rewarding, thanks to simple recipes requiring minimal ingredients or more traditional yeast-based approaches. By selecting the right gluten-free flour blend, incorporating binders like xanthan gum, and observing basic baking techniques, anyone can achieve tasty, satisfying gluten-free dough balls that rival their traditional counterparts.
This is not just a replacement but an opportunity to embrace new ingredients and techniques, proving that a gluten-free diet can be full of flavour and variety. Whether for pizza night, a quick snack, or a dinner party appetizer, gluten-free dough balls are a versatile and delicious treat for all. For more detailed guidance on specific techniques, consult resources like King Arthur Baking.
