oil free
Oil Free Nutty Granola
02/01/10
I like crunchy granola. Mainly, because I like to mix it with yogurt or sprinkle it on soy ice cream. The problem with granola is the high fat content. After adding all the yummy things like nuts, granola is traditionally baked using some sort of oil. The first time I made granola, I found this recipe that used oilve oil. I thought to myself, olive oil is healthy. The recipe made a huge batch, and confident that I would love it, I made it to specifications. What a waste that was. I could taste the oil which really turned me off. So, of couse, I let it sit around until I finally threw it out.
I love to experiment with granola, throwing in a little of this or that depending on what is in the cupboard. Especially with spices, my favorite so far is using chinese five spice. (Chinese five spice also happens to be the bomb in warm oatmeal.) It really adds depth of flavor to a hum drum breakfast.
Today's batch is more traditional for those just starting out. Raisens or cherries can be substitued for the cranberries or blueberries. Agave syrup or brown sugar can be substituted for either the maple syrup or honey. Make it match your cupboard and you are more likely to whip up a batch today!
Ingredient's List:
1 1/2 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup wheat bran
1/4 cup ground flax
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup walnut pieces
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground clove
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup dries blueberries
Heat your oven to 250 F.
Mix up all your dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix wet ingredients and whisk together in a small bowl seperately. Add the wet ingredients to the oatmeal and mix until evenly distributed.
Spread the mixture in a shallow pan or cookie sheet and bake until dry. Watch carefully and stir the mixture in the pan every 20 minutes or so.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Add the dried fruit. Use as cold cereal with milk or as a treat with yogurt. Enjoy!
Living a life of personal balance, moderation, education, and connection.
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