Hi, I’m Steffen!
Welcome to my kitchen. My journey into gluten-free living wasn’t a choice I made for a trend—it was a discovery that changed our family life for the better.
I’m a dad to two active boys (9 and 11). Two years ago, our lives shifted when my younger son was diagnosed with Celiac disease. As it turns out, Celiac runs in our family; shortly after his diagnosis, I discovered that I am gluten intolerant as well. For years, I didn’t have obvious symptoms, but looking back, the pieces finally fit together.
From the Black Forest to the World
I grew up in Swabia—a region famous for its breads and pastries—and spent nearly a decade living in the USA, where I fell in love with diverse, international flavors. Today, I live at the foot of the Black Forest in Germany.
Fueling an Active Life
When I’m not working in IT, you’ll likely find me outdoors. As a former triathlete, I still spend as much time as possible running and cycling. Being a sportsperson, I know that food needs to do two things: it has to fuel your body, and it has to taste amazing.
My Mission
This blog is where my love for cooking and baking meets our gluten-free reality. I’m constantly experimenting with new dishes and baked goods that prove gluten-free doesn’t mean “less than.” Whether you are a fellow “Celiac dad,” an athlete looking for clean fuel, or just someone who loves a good meal, I’m glad you’re here.
Let’s show the world that you can eat healthily and still enjoy every single bite.
Why Gluten-Free? (Beyond the Label)
Living gluten-free is about more than just “avoiding wheat.” When my son and I were diagnosed, I realized that the real challenge isn’t just cutting out gluten—it’s ensuring our bodies actually get the nutrients they need to thrive.
The Nutritional Challenge
Traditional whole grains are significant sources of essential nutrients. When you remove them, many people fall into the trap of eating highly processed gluten-free substitutes made from refined starches, which are often “empty” calories. On this blog, I focus on reclaiming those lost nutrients by prioritizing:
- B-Vitamins: Crucial for energy metabolism and brain function. Since many GF flours aren’t fortified, I focus on natural sources like seeds, legumes, and gluten-free oats.
- Iron & Zinc: Essential for oxygen transport and a strong immune system. I experiment with nutrient-dense ingredients like quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth to ensure we are truly nourished.
- Fiber & Minerals: Celiac disease can impact the gut’s ability to absorb nutrients. My recipes focus on high-fiber, gut-friendly ingredients to help the body heal and stay efficient for an active lifestyle.
Performance-Based Nutrition
As a runner and cyclist, I can’t afford to be “empty-fueled.” My approach to cooking is about nutrient density. I want to provide my boys with the building blocks they need to grow and give myself the endurance I need for a long ride through the Black Forest. It’s not about restriction; it’s about intelligent substitution.