Gluten-Free Events Calendar

If it’s gluten free and happening in Victoria, Vancouver Island or the Gulf Islands, you’ll find it listed here! From tastings to contests, farmer’s markets to food trucks – this is your calendar to Gluten-Free Paradise!  Join Victoria’s Gluten-Free Foodies and add a new restaurant – and possibly a new gluten-free friend – to your repertoire!

May
13
Sat
MAiiZ Nixtamal Tamales @ Fernwood Makers Party
May 13 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

MAiiZ Fernwood Makers Party

Celebrate Summer Nights Market with their Final Party of the Season! Saturday September 9 from 4 – 8pm. Live entertainment from 5-7pm

  • Pablos Luis Cardenas Robledo
  • Sara Marreiros

🌮.  Enjoy hot Tamales! You’ve heard of them! Now you can experience them, the MAiiZ Nixtamal way! Meet the Maker, Chef Israel!

🌮.  What are tamales? A traditional Mexican dish made with a (gluten-free) corn-based dough mixture, filled with a chicken, beef, refried beans, then wrapped in a banana leaf. Enjoy with your fave sauce, rice, guacamole or all of the above!

1508 Haultain – Four Corners – Come see the magic of 45 local artists and creatives as we spread out along the sidewalk between the Local General, Uretreat, 4 Corners and around the corner in from of the big bright colour wall Caitlyn painted!!

Fernwood Makers Party Facebook
Fernwood Makers Party Instagram


Israel Alvarez Molina MAiiZ

“I want to feel proud about the food I produce, and I want people to feel good about what they are eating!” Chef Israel Alvarez Molina

MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas are made from certified organic corn grown in Armstrong, BC and lab-tested to be gluten free. Chef Israel Alvarez Molina’s technique, inspired in the traditional Mesoamerican Nixtamalization process is more than just authentic, providing taste and structure. MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas have flavour, aroma, texture and elasticity. When eating a Nixtamal Taco you don’t just taste the corn, you taste the process.

Maiiz.ca • FacebookInstagramTwitterContact • 778-433-1544

SHOP ONLINE for everything you need to ‘A-MAiiZ!’
CARRYING RETAILERS & RESTAURANTS!

PATIO DINING! Enjoy your take-out and watch the world go by. First come first served. Reservations accepted.

Education | History | Culture
MAiiZ’ Recipe Collection
Subscribe to MAiiZ’ Mail
• MAiiZ Gift Card
Watch MAiiZ’ Amazing video collection!
Learn more about MAiiZ …
Read the Review in the Times Colonist

Maiiz reheating instructionsTestimonials

  • “Se siente el sabor de Mexico! I can taste the flavour of Mexico” @gtcanni
  • “I love how the tortillas held together perfectly without breaking or getting soggy.” @propitiouspig

Carrying Retailers (call ahead to confirm)

  • MAiiZ at 540 Fisgard St (Open Tuesday to Sunday) – see map
  • Beauregard Cafe & Provisions
  • Charelli’s Cheese Shop & Delicatessen
  • Coco’s Provisions
  • Cold Comfort Canteen
  • Community Farm Store (Duncan)
  • Country Grocer (Royal Oak & Esquimalt) 
  • Fairway Markets (all locations) 
  • Farm and Field Butcher
  • For Good Measure James Bay
  • Great Greens Farm Market
  • Lifestyle Markets 
  • Michell’s Farm Market
  • Mother Nature’s Market & Deli
  • Mt Doug Market
  • Neighbourly Store
  • Niche Grocerant
  • NomadEx
  • Old Farm Market (Oak Bay)
  • Peppers Foods
  • Pomme Natural Markets Nanaimo
  • Rock Bay Market
  • The Local General Store
  • The Market Garden
  • The Root Cellar
  • Urban Grocer
  • more …

MAiiZ Corn Tortillas nixtamalizationWhat exactly is Nixtamalization?

  • Corn holds the memory of culture, tradition, indigenous practices and history for many in Mexico. Nixtamalization, masa, fresh cooked tortillas; these textures and smells are ingrained within the best culinary experiences and come from a place of memory and authenticity.
  • Nixtamalization is the process of chemically transforming dried corn kernels into a dough which is then used in a wide variety of Mexican dishes.
  • Dried corn kernels is boiled in an alkaline solution using pickling lime (also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide) and then left to soak overnight. When the corn is drained and rinsed some of the outer membrane layer is loosened and rubbed off. Corn that has gone through this process is now called nixtamal, or in some cultures, hominy.
  • The wet nixtamal is then ground to a dough using a specialized mill. The result is a silky, slightly elastic fresh “masa” dough that squiggles out the grinder. The masa is shaped into small balls called testalitos and pressed to create fragrant, soft, flavourful tortillas with a unique smell of Mexico!

How does this change the corn?

  • The nixtamalization process not only transforms corn structurally, but also nutritionally. Corn on its own is seen as a low source of nutrition, often associated with pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency common to impoverished communities where the process of nixtamalization was not introduced with corn.
  • This issue can be traced back to the colonization of the Americas when corn was taken by Europeans to grow as a crop around the globe, but the nixtamalization process was not. This resulted in widespread disease and malnutrition. Through the process of nixtamalization the calcium in corn is increased as is the quality of protein absorbed by the body. Additionally, phytic acid is reduced making it easier for the body to absorb important minerals unlocked by the alkaline solution used during the nixtamalization process.

What is the cultural importance?

  • “When you are an immigrant you go through a lot of stages to find an identity in your new home. The part of my life that I could not find was my diet. I could adapt to a different climate, harsh weather, assimilate into the culture and learn a new language, but deep inside of me nixtamal was missing. There is so much history and culture behind this process which is the foundation of Mexican Cuisine. The aroma, texture, flavour and feeling of a fresh Nixtamal Tortilla doesn’t compare to anything else, it’s like freshly brewed coffee when you’ve had instant coffee all your life. This transformative experience is something that everyone deserves.

Jun
3
Sat
MAiiZ Nixtamal Tamales @ Fernwood Makers Party
Jun 3 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

MAiiZ Fernwood Makers Party

Celebrate Summer Nights Market with their Final Party of the Season! Saturday September 9 from 4 – 8pm. Live entertainment from 5-7pm

  • Pablos Luis Cardenas Robledo
  • Sara Marreiros

🌮.  Enjoy hot Tamales! You’ve heard of them! Now you can experience them, the MAiiZ Nixtamal way! Meet the Maker, Chef Israel!

🌮.  What are tamales? A traditional Mexican dish made with a (gluten-free) corn-based dough mixture, filled with a chicken, beef, refried beans, then wrapped in a banana leaf. Enjoy with your fave sauce, rice, guacamole or all of the above!

1508 Haultain – Four Corners – Come see the magic of 45 local artists and creatives as we spread out along the sidewalk between the Local General, Uretreat, 4 Corners and around the corner in from of the big bright colour wall Caitlyn painted!!

Fernwood Makers Party Facebook
Fernwood Makers Party Instagram


Israel Alvarez Molina MAiiZ

“I want to feel proud about the food I produce, and I want people to feel good about what they are eating!” Chef Israel Alvarez Molina

MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas are made from certified organic corn grown in Armstrong, BC and lab-tested to be gluten free. Chef Israel Alvarez Molina’s technique, inspired in the traditional Mesoamerican Nixtamalization process is more than just authentic, providing taste and structure. MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas have flavour, aroma, texture and elasticity. When eating a Nixtamal Taco you don’t just taste the corn, you taste the process.

Maiiz.ca • FacebookInstagramTwitterContact • 778-433-1544

SHOP ONLINE for everything you need to ‘A-MAiiZ!’
CARRYING RETAILERS & RESTAURANTS!

PATIO DINING! Enjoy your take-out and watch the world go by. First come first served. Reservations accepted.

Education | History | Culture
MAiiZ’ Recipe Collection
Subscribe to MAiiZ’ Mail
• MAiiZ Gift Card
Watch MAiiZ’ Amazing video collection!
Learn more about MAiiZ …
Read the Review in the Times Colonist

Maiiz reheating instructionsTestimonials

  • “Se siente el sabor de Mexico! I can taste the flavour of Mexico” @gtcanni
  • “I love how the tortillas held together perfectly without breaking or getting soggy.” @propitiouspig

Carrying Retailers (call ahead to confirm)

  • MAiiZ at 540 Fisgard St (Open Tuesday to Sunday) – see map
  • Beauregard Cafe & Provisions
  • Charelli’s Cheese Shop & Delicatessen
  • Coco’s Provisions
  • Cold Comfort Canteen
  • Community Farm Store (Duncan)
  • Country Grocer (Royal Oak & Esquimalt) 
  • Fairway Markets (all locations) 
  • Farm and Field Butcher
  • For Good Measure James Bay
  • Great Greens Farm Market
  • Lifestyle Markets 
  • Michell’s Farm Market
  • Mother Nature’s Market & Deli
  • Mt Doug Market
  • Neighbourly Store
  • Niche Grocerant
  • NomadEx
  • Old Farm Market (Oak Bay)
  • Peppers Foods
  • Pomme Natural Markets Nanaimo
  • Rock Bay Market
  • The Local General Store
  • The Market Garden
  • The Root Cellar
  • Urban Grocer
  • more …

MAiiZ Corn Tortillas nixtamalizationWhat exactly is Nixtamalization?

  • Corn holds the memory of culture, tradition, indigenous practices and history for many in Mexico. Nixtamalization, masa, fresh cooked tortillas; these textures and smells are ingrained within the best culinary experiences and come from a place of memory and authenticity.
  • Nixtamalization is the process of chemically transforming dried corn kernels into a dough which is then used in a wide variety of Mexican dishes.
  • Dried corn kernels is boiled in an alkaline solution using pickling lime (also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide) and then left to soak overnight. When the corn is drained and rinsed some of the outer membrane layer is loosened and rubbed off. Corn that has gone through this process is now called nixtamal, or in some cultures, hominy.
  • The wet nixtamal is then ground to a dough using a specialized mill. The result is a silky, slightly elastic fresh “masa” dough that squiggles out the grinder. The masa is shaped into small balls called testalitos and pressed to create fragrant, soft, flavourful tortillas with a unique smell of Mexico!

How does this change the corn?

  • The nixtamalization process not only transforms corn structurally, but also nutritionally. Corn on its own is seen as a low source of nutrition, often associated with pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency common to impoverished communities where the process of nixtamalization was not introduced with corn.
  • This issue can be traced back to the colonization of the Americas when corn was taken by Europeans to grow as a crop around the globe, but the nixtamalization process was not. This resulted in widespread disease and malnutrition. Through the process of nixtamalization the calcium in corn is increased as is the quality of protein absorbed by the body. Additionally, phytic acid is reduced making it easier for the body to absorb important minerals unlocked by the alkaline solution used during the nixtamalization process.

What is the cultural importance?

  • “When you are an immigrant you go through a lot of stages to find an identity in your new home. The part of my life that I could not find was my diet. I could adapt to a different climate, harsh weather, assimilate into the culture and learn a new language, but deep inside of me nixtamal was missing. There is so much history and culture behind this process which is the foundation of Mexican Cuisine. The aroma, texture, flavour and feeling of a fresh Nixtamal Tortilla doesn’t compare to anything else, it’s like freshly brewed coffee when you’ve had instant coffee all your life. This transformative experience is something that everyone deserves.

Jul
8
Sat
MAiiZ Nixtamal Tamales @ Fernwood Makers Party
Jul 8 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

MAiiZ Fernwood Makers Party

Celebrate Summer Nights Market with their Final Party of the Season! Saturday September 9 from 4 – 8pm. Live entertainment from 5-7pm

  • Pablos Luis Cardenas Robledo
  • Sara Marreiros

🌮.  Enjoy hot Tamales! You’ve heard of them! Now you can experience them, the MAiiZ Nixtamal way! Meet the Maker, Chef Israel!

🌮.  What are tamales? A traditional Mexican dish made with a (gluten-free) corn-based dough mixture, filled with a chicken, beef, refried beans, then wrapped in a banana leaf. Enjoy with your fave sauce, rice, guacamole or all of the above!

1508 Haultain – Four Corners – Come see the magic of 45 local artists and creatives as we spread out along the sidewalk between the Local General, Uretreat, 4 Corners and around the corner in from of the big bright colour wall Caitlyn painted!!

Fernwood Makers Party Facebook
Fernwood Makers Party Instagram


Israel Alvarez Molina MAiiZ

“I want to feel proud about the food I produce, and I want people to feel good about what they are eating!” Chef Israel Alvarez Molina

MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas are made from certified organic corn grown in Armstrong, BC and lab-tested to be gluten free. Chef Israel Alvarez Molina’s technique, inspired in the traditional Mesoamerican Nixtamalization process is more than just authentic, providing taste and structure. MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas have flavour, aroma, texture and elasticity. When eating a Nixtamal Taco you don’t just taste the corn, you taste the process.

Maiiz.ca • FacebookInstagramTwitterContact • 778-433-1544

SHOP ONLINE for everything you need to ‘A-MAiiZ!’
CARRYING RETAILERS & RESTAURANTS!

PATIO DINING! Enjoy your take-out and watch the world go by. First come first served. Reservations accepted.

Education | History | Culture
MAiiZ’ Recipe Collection
Subscribe to MAiiZ’ Mail
• MAiiZ Gift Card
Watch MAiiZ’ Amazing video collection!
Learn more about MAiiZ …
Read the Review in the Times Colonist

Maiiz reheating instructionsTestimonials

  • “Se siente el sabor de Mexico! I can taste the flavour of Mexico” @gtcanni
  • “I love how the tortillas held together perfectly without breaking or getting soggy.” @propitiouspig

Carrying Retailers (call ahead to confirm)

  • MAiiZ at 540 Fisgard St (Open Tuesday to Sunday) – see map
  • Beauregard Cafe & Provisions
  • Charelli’s Cheese Shop & Delicatessen
  • Coco’s Provisions
  • Cold Comfort Canteen
  • Community Farm Store (Duncan)
  • Country Grocer (Royal Oak & Esquimalt) 
  • Fairway Markets (all locations) 
  • Farm and Field Butcher
  • For Good Measure James Bay
  • Great Greens Farm Market
  • Lifestyle Markets 
  • Michell’s Farm Market
  • Mother Nature’s Market & Deli
  • Mt Doug Market
  • Neighbourly Store
  • Niche Grocerant
  • NomadEx
  • Old Farm Market (Oak Bay)
  • Peppers Foods
  • Pomme Natural Markets Nanaimo
  • Rock Bay Market
  • The Local General Store
  • The Market Garden
  • The Root Cellar
  • Urban Grocer
  • more …

MAiiZ Corn Tortillas nixtamalizationWhat exactly is Nixtamalization?

  • Corn holds the memory of culture, tradition, indigenous practices and history for many in Mexico. Nixtamalization, masa, fresh cooked tortillas; these textures and smells are ingrained within the best culinary experiences and come from a place of memory and authenticity.
  • Nixtamalization is the process of chemically transforming dried corn kernels into a dough which is then used in a wide variety of Mexican dishes.
  • Dried corn kernels is boiled in an alkaline solution using pickling lime (also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide) and then left to soak overnight. When the corn is drained and rinsed some of the outer membrane layer is loosened and rubbed off. Corn that has gone through this process is now called nixtamal, or in some cultures, hominy.
  • The wet nixtamal is then ground to a dough using a specialized mill. The result is a silky, slightly elastic fresh “masa” dough that squiggles out the grinder. The masa is shaped into small balls called testalitos and pressed to create fragrant, soft, flavourful tortillas with a unique smell of Mexico!

How does this change the corn?

  • The nixtamalization process not only transforms corn structurally, but also nutritionally. Corn on its own is seen as a low source of nutrition, often associated with pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency common to impoverished communities where the process of nixtamalization was not introduced with corn.
  • This issue can be traced back to the colonization of the Americas when corn was taken by Europeans to grow as a crop around the globe, but the nixtamalization process was not. This resulted in widespread disease and malnutrition. Through the process of nixtamalization the calcium in corn is increased as is the quality of protein absorbed by the body. Additionally, phytic acid is reduced making it easier for the body to absorb important minerals unlocked by the alkaline solution used during the nixtamalization process.

What is the cultural importance?

  • “When you are an immigrant you go through a lot of stages to find an identity in your new home. The part of my life that I could not find was my diet. I could adapt to a different climate, harsh weather, assimilate into the culture and learn a new language, but deep inside of me nixtamal was missing. There is so much history and culture behind this process which is the foundation of Mexican Cuisine. The aroma, texture, flavour and feeling of a fresh Nixtamal Tortilla doesn’t compare to anything else, it’s like freshly brewed coffee when you’ve had instant coffee all your life. This transformative experience is something that everyone deserves.

Aug
19
Sat
MAiiZ Nixtamal Tamales @ Fernwood Makers Party
Aug 19 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

MAiiZ Fernwood Makers Party

Celebrate Summer Nights Market with their Final Party of the Season! Saturday September 9 from 4 – 8pm. Live entertainment from 5-7pm

  • Pablos Luis Cardenas Robledo
  • Sara Marreiros

🌮.  Enjoy hot Tamales! You’ve heard of them! Now you can experience them, the MAiiZ Nixtamal way! Meet the Maker, Chef Israel!

🌮.  What are tamales? A traditional Mexican dish made with a (gluten-free) corn-based dough mixture, filled with a chicken, beef, refried beans, then wrapped in a banana leaf. Enjoy with your fave sauce, rice, guacamole or all of the above!

1508 Haultain – Four Corners – Come see the magic of 45 local artists and creatives as we spread out along the sidewalk between the Local General, Uretreat, 4 Corners and around the corner in from of the big bright colour wall Caitlyn painted!!

Fernwood Makers Party Facebook
Fernwood Makers Party Instagram


Israel Alvarez Molina MAiiZ

“I want to feel proud about the food I produce, and I want people to feel good about what they are eating!” Chef Israel Alvarez Molina

MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas are made from certified organic corn grown in Armstrong, BC and lab-tested to be gluten free. Chef Israel Alvarez Molina’s technique, inspired in the traditional Mesoamerican Nixtamalization process is more than just authentic, providing taste and structure. MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas have flavour, aroma, texture and elasticity. When eating a Nixtamal Taco you don’t just taste the corn, you taste the process.

Maiiz.ca • FacebookInstagramTwitterContact • 778-433-1544

SHOP ONLINE for everything you need to ‘A-MAiiZ!’
CARRYING RETAILERS & RESTAURANTS!

PATIO DINING! Enjoy your take-out and watch the world go by. First come first served. Reservations accepted.

Education | History | Culture
MAiiZ’ Recipe Collection
Subscribe to MAiiZ’ Mail
• MAiiZ Gift Card
Watch MAiiZ’ Amazing video collection!
Learn more about MAiiZ …
Read the Review in the Times Colonist

Maiiz reheating instructionsTestimonials

  • “Se siente el sabor de Mexico! I can taste the flavour of Mexico” @gtcanni
  • “I love how the tortillas held together perfectly without breaking or getting soggy.” @propitiouspig

Carrying Retailers (call ahead to confirm)

  • MAiiZ at 540 Fisgard St (Open Tuesday to Sunday) – see map
  • Beauregard Cafe & Provisions
  • Charelli’s Cheese Shop & Delicatessen
  • Coco’s Provisions
  • Cold Comfort Canteen
  • Community Farm Store (Duncan)
  • Country Grocer (Royal Oak & Esquimalt) 
  • Fairway Markets (all locations) 
  • Farm and Field Butcher
  • For Good Measure James Bay
  • Great Greens Farm Market
  • Lifestyle Markets 
  • Michell’s Farm Market
  • Mother Nature’s Market & Deli
  • Mt Doug Market
  • Neighbourly Store
  • Niche Grocerant
  • NomadEx
  • Old Farm Market (Oak Bay)
  • Peppers Foods
  • Pomme Natural Markets Nanaimo
  • Rock Bay Market
  • The Local General Store
  • The Market Garden
  • The Root Cellar
  • Urban Grocer
  • more …

MAiiZ Corn Tortillas nixtamalizationWhat exactly is Nixtamalization?

  • Corn holds the memory of culture, tradition, indigenous practices and history for many in Mexico. Nixtamalization, masa, fresh cooked tortillas; these textures and smells are ingrained within the best culinary experiences and come from a place of memory and authenticity.
  • Nixtamalization is the process of chemically transforming dried corn kernels into a dough which is then used in a wide variety of Mexican dishes.
  • Dried corn kernels is boiled in an alkaline solution using pickling lime (also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide) and then left to soak overnight. When the corn is drained and rinsed some of the outer membrane layer is loosened and rubbed off. Corn that has gone through this process is now called nixtamal, or in some cultures, hominy.
  • The wet nixtamal is then ground to a dough using a specialized mill. The result is a silky, slightly elastic fresh “masa” dough that squiggles out the grinder. The masa is shaped into small balls called testalitos and pressed to create fragrant, soft, flavourful tortillas with a unique smell of Mexico!

How does this change the corn?

  • The nixtamalization process not only transforms corn structurally, but also nutritionally. Corn on its own is seen as a low source of nutrition, often associated with pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency common to impoverished communities where the process of nixtamalization was not introduced with corn.
  • This issue can be traced back to the colonization of the Americas when corn was taken by Europeans to grow as a crop around the globe, but the nixtamalization process was not. This resulted in widespread disease and malnutrition. Through the process of nixtamalization the calcium in corn is increased as is the quality of protein absorbed by the body. Additionally, phytic acid is reduced making it easier for the body to absorb important minerals unlocked by the alkaline solution used during the nixtamalization process.

What is the cultural importance?

  • “When you are an immigrant you go through a lot of stages to find an identity in your new home. The part of my life that I could not find was my diet. I could adapt to a different climate, harsh weather, assimilate into the culture and learn a new language, but deep inside of me nixtamal was missing. There is so much history and culture behind this process which is the foundation of Mexican Cuisine. The aroma, texture, flavour and feeling of a fresh Nixtamal Tortilla doesn’t compare to anything else, it’s like freshly brewed coffee when you’ve had instant coffee all your life. This transformative experience is something that everyone deserves.

Sep
9
Sat
MAiiZ Nixtamal Tamales @ Fernwood Makers Party
Sep 9 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

MAiiZ Fernwood Makers Party

Celebrate Summer Nights Market with their Final Party of the Season! Saturday September 9 from 4 – 8pm. Live entertainment from 5-7pm

  • Pablos Luis Cardenas Robledo
  • Sara Marreiros

🌮.  Enjoy hot Tamales! You’ve heard of them! Now you can experience them, the MAiiZ Nixtamal way! Meet the Maker, Chef Israel!

🌮.  What are tamales? A traditional Mexican dish made with a (gluten-free) corn-based dough mixture, filled with a chicken, beef, refried beans, then wrapped in a banana leaf. Enjoy with your fave sauce, rice, guacamole or all of the above!

1508 Haultain – Four Corners – Come see the magic of 45 local artists and creatives as we spread out along the sidewalk between the Local General, Uretreat, 4 Corners and around the corner in from of the big bright colour wall Caitlyn painted!!

Fernwood Makers Party Facebook
Fernwood Makers Party Instagram


Israel Alvarez Molina MAiiZ

“I want to feel proud about the food I produce, and I want people to feel good about what they are eating!” Chef Israel Alvarez Molina

MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas are made from certified organic corn grown in Armstrong, BC and lab-tested to be gluten free. Chef Israel Alvarez Molina’s technique, inspired in the traditional Mesoamerican Nixtamalization process is more than just authentic, providing taste and structure. MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortillas have flavour, aroma, texture and elasticity. When eating a Nixtamal Taco you don’t just taste the corn, you taste the process.

Maiiz.ca • FacebookInstagramTwitterContact • 778-433-1544

SHOP ONLINE for everything you need to ‘A-MAiiZ!’
CARRYING RETAILERS & RESTAURANTS!

PATIO DINING! Enjoy your take-out and watch the world go by. First come first served. Reservations accepted.

Education | History | Culture
MAiiZ’ Recipe Collection
Subscribe to MAiiZ’ Mail
• MAiiZ Gift Card
Watch MAiiZ’ Amazing video collection!
Learn more about MAiiZ …
Read the Review in the Times Colonist

Maiiz reheating instructionsTestimonials

  • “Se siente el sabor de Mexico! I can taste the flavour of Mexico” @gtcanni
  • “I love how the tortillas held together perfectly without breaking or getting soggy.” @propitiouspig

Carrying Retailers (call ahead to confirm)

  • MAiiZ at 540 Fisgard St (Open Tuesday to Sunday) – see map
  • Beauregard Cafe & Provisions
  • Charelli’s Cheese Shop & Delicatessen
  • Coco’s Provisions
  • Cold Comfort Canteen
  • Community Farm Store (Duncan)
  • Country Grocer (Royal Oak & Esquimalt) 
  • Fairway Markets (all locations) 
  • Farm and Field Butcher
  • For Good Measure James Bay
  • Great Greens Farm Market
  • Lifestyle Markets 
  • Michell’s Farm Market
  • Mother Nature’s Market & Deli
  • Mt Doug Market
  • Neighbourly Store
  • Niche Grocerant
  • NomadEx
  • Old Farm Market (Oak Bay)
  • Peppers Foods
  • Pomme Natural Markets Nanaimo
  • Rock Bay Market
  • The Local General Store
  • The Market Garden
  • The Root Cellar
  • Urban Grocer
  • more …

MAiiZ Corn Tortillas nixtamalizationWhat exactly is Nixtamalization?

  • Corn holds the memory of culture, tradition, indigenous practices and history for many in Mexico. Nixtamalization, masa, fresh cooked tortillas; these textures and smells are ingrained within the best culinary experiences and come from a place of memory and authenticity.
  • Nixtamalization is the process of chemically transforming dried corn kernels into a dough which is then used in a wide variety of Mexican dishes.
  • Dried corn kernels is boiled in an alkaline solution using pickling lime (also known as slaked lime or calcium hydroxide) and then left to soak overnight. When the corn is drained and rinsed some of the outer membrane layer is loosened and rubbed off. Corn that has gone through this process is now called nixtamal, or in some cultures, hominy.
  • The wet nixtamal is then ground to a dough using a specialized mill. The result is a silky, slightly elastic fresh “masa” dough that squiggles out the grinder. The masa is shaped into small balls called testalitos and pressed to create fragrant, soft, flavourful tortillas with a unique smell of Mexico!

How does this change the corn?

  • The nixtamalization process not only transforms corn structurally, but also nutritionally. Corn on its own is seen as a low source of nutrition, often associated with pellagra, a disease caused by vitamin B3 deficiency common to impoverished communities where the process of nixtamalization was not introduced with corn.
  • This issue can be traced back to the colonization of the Americas when corn was taken by Europeans to grow as a crop around the globe, but the nixtamalization process was not. This resulted in widespread disease and malnutrition. Through the process of nixtamalization the calcium in corn is increased as is the quality of protein absorbed by the body. Additionally, phytic acid is reduced making it easier for the body to absorb important minerals unlocked by the alkaline solution used during the nixtamalization process.

What is the cultural importance?

  • “When you are an immigrant you go through a lot of stages to find an identity in your new home. The part of my life that I could not find was my diet. I could adapt to a different climate, harsh weather, assimilate into the culture and learn a new language, but deep inside of me nixtamal was missing. There is so much history and culture behind this process which is the foundation of Mexican Cuisine. The aroma, texture, flavour and feeling of a fresh Nixtamal Tortilla doesn’t compare to anything else, it’s like freshly brewed coffee when you’ve had instant coffee all your life. This transformative experience is something that everyone deserves.

Nov
23
Thu
Gluten-Free Foodies Meet Up @ 900 Degrees Wood-Fired Pizza
Nov 23 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

900 DEGREES 3 copy 2Join Victoria’s Gluten-Free Foodies for the finest in authentic, Italian dining!

Click here for 900 Degrees’ Gluten-Free Menu & Pricing. In person,  ask for the ‘Red Menu!’

Thursday, November 23 from 6 – 7:30 PM
RSVP to ellen@theceliacscene.com

NOTE from The Celiac Scene: Only gluten-free flour is used on the prep line and to dust the oven floor. Flour is denatured at a temperature of 900˚.  In the event that residual flour might remain, it would be gluten free.

Open 7 days per week 11:30am to 8pm.

Reserve online or call (250) 590-4493
Order Takeout – Pick up at 101B 2401 Millstream Avenue.
Gift Certificates
900degrees.caFacebookInstagramcontact@900degrees.ca •  Regular Menu

Watch 900 Degrees on CHEK NEWS Order Up!

Deli Products – Enjoy 900° quality products and ingredients at home! 900° offers a variety of top-quality deli products, from our house-made organic and gluten-free pizza dough, organic tomato sauce, fresh pesto and house desserts. More info

See also 900˚ BiSTRO in Sidney!

Great gluten-free news from owner, Adrian Ortiz:

“We have now launched a dedicated FULL GLUTEN-FREE MENU! There are over 30 GF items on our menu, including appetizers, salads and pizzas.”

“We have also COMPLETELY eliminated gluten flour for our pizza prep line – which now significantly decreases the possibility fo gluten cross contamination.”

‘ “In other words, “The only thing that is NOT GF is our regular dough, which is now prepared completely separately. There is absolutely no gluten flour online, which is the main concern for potential cross-contamination.” ‘

“ALL flour used online (even the one we use to stretch our traditional recipe dough) is Gluten-Free. All previous protocols of using separate utensils, tools and equipment for our GF food items are still enforced.”

900 Degrees GF Menu 1

Click here to view menu

900 Degrees GF Menu 2

Click here to view menu

900 Degrees GF Menu 3

Click here to view menu


TESTIMONIAL: We bought 2 GF pizzas(+1reg) here for take out last evening. It was soooooo goooood! Mine was vegetarian with a pesto sauce – yum!!!! Highly recommend this spot! 10/10 maybe even 15/10 😍  … Gloria

Love Pasta?

900˚ Wood-Fired Pizzeria stages occasional pasta specials and always offer the option of Italy’s Schar Gluten-Free Pasta to gluten-free diners!

Read the Reviews!

EAT Magazine
CTV NEWS VANCOUVER ISLAND:
Y.A.M. Magazine:

 

Nov
26
Sun
B-glutenfreevictoria European Baking @ Esquimalt Holiday Market
Nov 26 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

b-glutenfreevictoria booth wpB-glutenfreevictoria 100% Gluten-Free European Style Desserts and Artisan Breads.

How to order! 

bglutenfreevictoria.square.site
Instagram via DM
bglutenfreevictoria@gmail.com
• 250-208-3646
• Pick up or delivery arranged when ordering.

Enjoy a selection of baguettes, bars , biscuits, bread, buns, cinnamon buns, coffee cakes, cookies, croissants, filled pastries, loaves (banana bread & orange cranberry,) muffins, pies & sourdough! Best of all! MINI DONUTS!

COMPLETE Market Schedule
TODAY’S APPEARANCES


Esquimalt Farmer's Market

ESQUIMALT HOLIDAY MARKET – 

Sunday, November 26 – Esquimalt Holiday Market 11am to 5pm. Details here. 

Regular Markets Thursdays 4:30 – 7:00
Indoor at Esquimalt Recreation Centre 527 Fraser St – November  9, 16, 23, December 7, 14
esquimaltmarket.comFacebookInstagram

 


Tanja Blondin wpAbout Tanja!

Listen to Tanja on ‘A Canadian Celiac Podcast!’

Tanja Blondin,  Owner / Operator of B-glutenfreevictoria, has been baking for as long as she can remember.  Her German heritage continues to inform the food that she creates.

With hospitality in her DNA, Tanja has done it all from baking to catering,  always with the best in presentation.

When her daughter was born, Tanja started a cake business that allowed her to work from home. The business was so successful that it grew into a full catering and pastry shop in Ontario. From there, she went on to manage  restaurants, including the Starbucks that she transferred to in Sidney, to be closer to family.

Seeking a change from the coffee business, Tanja assumed a position in the bakery department of Sidney Thrifty Foods. It was around this time that she began experiencing health problems that lead her, and her daughter, to be diagnosed with celiac disease. Her employer tried to accommodate her condition with a move to the cake decorating department, but the proximity to airborne gluten flour was too much for her.  Tanja had to resign, but that does not mean she stopped baking. Their loss was our gain!

What to do with decades of experience baking European pastries?  Tanja reimagined them using gluten-free, organic ingredients, freshly milled at the dedicated gluten-free Millstone Farm Organics in North Saanich:

  • almond flour • baking powder • brown rice flour • buckwheat flour • chia • buckwheat flour • eggs (fresh!) • flax seeds • millet flour • potato starch • psyllium husk • oats (pure) • quinoa • sorghum flour • sliced almonds • tapioca starch • teff flour • xanthan gum • white rice flour

Tanja adapted her favourite recipes to gluten free in her dedicated kitchen, and set up a booth on Sunday’s Mary Winspear Centre to test the market. The response has been so positive that she has gone on to create a ‘B-glutenfreevictoria Food Trailer’ – a first for Vancouver Island and beyond!

View the possibilities and order online through bglutenfreevictoria.square.site, or stop by her trailer during her busy  market schedule this summer.

b-glutenfreevictoria 19B-glutenfreevictoria choc donuts 2b-glutenfreevictoria 10b-glutenfreevictoria 3b-glutenfreevictoria 16b-glutenfreevictoria 15b-glutenfreevictoria 20b-glutenfreevictoria 17b-glutenfreevictoria 18b-glutenfreevictoria 7b-glutenfreevictoria 6b-glutenfreevictoria 8b-glutenfreevictoria 13b-glutenfreevictoria 12b-glutenfreevictoria 21b-glutenfreevictoria 22b-glutenfreevictoria 23b-glutenfreevictoria 24b-glutenfreevictoria 27b-glutenfreevictoria 25b-glutenfreevictoria 11b-glutenfreevictoria 5b-glutenfreevictoria 28b-glutenfreevictoria 29b-glutenfreevictoria 30B-glutenfreevictoria macaronsB-glutenfreevictoria sourdough 3b-glutenfreevictoria platter

Dec
2
Sat
CHURROS & MOR @ Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar
Dec 2 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Churros Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar100% Gluten-Free, Vegan CHURROS & MOR 

Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar
Saturday & Sunday, December 2nd & 3rd 11am to 5pm
At the new Gorge Park Pavilion 1070 Tillicum Rd

What are churros? Think Mexican donuts, only better! A crispy exterior with soft, chewy insides, Jorge uses Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free flour to make them. Deep-fried, then rolled in cinnamon and sugar, topped with your choice of strawberry, chocolate or caramel sauce. If you love ice cream, order the ‘Blizzard!’ CHURROS Instagram

Find CHURROS & MOR Food Truck at the Cook Street Village Food Court between Mercedes Lane and Hot & Cold Cafe See map
Enjoy picnic table seating underneath patio canopies and imagine yourself in Mexico.
Open Monday & Thursday 12 – 7 • Friday 11 – 8 • Saturday & Sunday 10 – 8 • Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

CHURROS & MOR ORIG WPSample Menu

  • Churros, House Churros, Churro Bites & Blizzard Churros
  • Dips: Chocolate, Strawberry, Caramel
  • Toppings: Marshmallows, Graham Cookies, Chocolate Chips, Whip Cream
  • Drinks – Chocolate, coffee, pop, bottle water, tea

About Jorge

While pursuing a poli-sci degree, Jorge (pronounced ‘Hor-he’) was inspired to start his own business. What better motivation than to share the recipes that his grandmother developed for his celiac father.  CHURROS & MOR was born!

Yes! Celiac Disease and the gluten-free diet literally run through Jorge’s veins. His niece in England also shares the diagnosis. Her family has chosen a vegan lifestyle, so Jorge knows first hand how challenging it is to find delicious gluten-free AND vegan delicacies!

 

Dec
3
Sun
CHURROS & MOR @ Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar
Dec 3 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Churros Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar100% Gluten-Free, Vegan CHURROS & MOR 

Fernwood Makers Party Winter Bazaar
Saturday & Sunday, December 2nd & 3rd 11am to 5pm
At the new Gorge Park Pavilion 1070 Tillicum Rd

What are churros? Think Mexican donuts, only better! A crispy exterior with soft, chewy insides, Jorge uses Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free flour to make them. Deep-fried, then rolled in cinnamon and sugar, topped with your choice of strawberry, chocolate or caramel sauce. If you love ice cream, order the ‘Blizzard!’ CHURROS Instagram

Find CHURROS & MOR Food Truck at the Cook Street Village Food Court between Mercedes Lane and Hot & Cold Cafe See map
Enjoy picnic table seating underneath patio canopies and imagine yourself in Mexico.
Open Monday & Thursday 12 – 7 • Friday 11 – 8 • Saturday & Sunday 10 – 8 • Closed Tuesday & Wednesday

CHURROS & MOR ORIG WPSample Menu

  • Churros, House Churros, Churro Bites & Blizzard Churros
  • Dips: Chocolate, Strawberry, Caramel
  • Toppings: Marshmallows, Graham Cookies, Chocolate Chips, Whip Cream
  • Drinks – Chocolate, coffee, pop, bottle water, tea

About Jorge

While pursuing a poli-sci degree, Jorge (pronounced ‘Hor-he’) was inspired to start his own business. What better motivation than to share the recipes that his grandmother developed for his celiac father.  CHURROS & MOR was born!

Yes! Celiac Disease and the gluten-free diet literally run through Jorge’s veins. His niece in England also shares the diagnosis. Her family has chosen a vegan lifestyle, so Jorge knows first hand how challenging it is to find delicious gluten-free AND vegan delicacies!