BORN AND BEARD

While many residents have sworn off carbs (at least when anyone is looking), thankfully there are still many bastions of baked goods across this city where the rest of us can indulge. Here are our favourite home-grown bakeries, plus some top tips from the experts on the secrets to making the perfect loaf

01 For the Love of Bread

Out of frustration for constantly being told not to eat bread in order to lose weight, Rami Badawi embarked on a mission to create a 100 per cent organic, sourdough bread, which would provide an accessible and healthy replacement to supermarket bread. For the Love of Bread’s staple menu consists of two organic sandwich loaves and two free-form loaves, plus a bread of the month (ask about the olive za’atar – it’s superb).

Order online at fortheloveofbread.ae. Follow @fortheloveofbreadbakery.

02 Honest Kitchen

This gluten-free and refined sugar-free food delivery service was set up by three Emirati ladies on a mission to nourish a healthier community. We’re big fans of their grain-free flatbreads, which suit almost all dietary requirements and are made from really simple ingredients. Choose from either an almond or cassava (nut free) flour base, and use them for shawarma wraps, taco shells, pizza bases, or even tortilla chips.

Order via WhatsApp on [phone]. Follow @ honestkitchen.ae.

TOP TIP

“For gluten free baking, always make sure you have something to bind your ingredients (or a replacement for gluten) whether it’s tapioca in your flour blend or by adding flaxseed powder, psyllium husk, or natural gums. Plus, make sure your gluten-free dough is slightly wetter than usual, as gluten free flours tend to be drier than regular flour.”

WINNER

03 Viking Bageri