What ingredient modification is often required for gluten-free diets?

The need for ingredient modification in gluten-free diets primarily involves using gluten-free flours. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which helps provide structure and elasticity in baked goods. When following a gluten-free diet, traditional flours that contain gluten cannot be used. Instead, gluten-free flours, such as almond flour, rice flour, coconut flour, or chickpea flour, are utilized to create similar textures and flavors in baking and cooking.

These gluten-free options often require adjustments in recipes, as they behave differently compared to regular wheat flour. The absence of gluten impacts not only the texture but also the moisture and leavening properties of the final product, making the choice of flour essential for achieving desired results in gluten-free cooking. This is why selecting gluten-free flours is the correct modification for those adhering to a gluten-free diet.