Home made Granola: Recipe for a Nutritious Start

Home-made granola is a delightful and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed as a breakfast cereal, a topping for yoghurt or smoothie bowls, or a satisfying snack on its own. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients, flavours, and sweetness to create a personalised blend that suits your taste preferences.

The base of this granola is made with wholesome rolled oats, which provide a hearty and fibre-rich foundation. Rolled oats are not only nutritious but also give the granola a satisfying chewiness.

A variety of nuts are included in this recipe to add a delightful crunch and a dose of healthy fats. Almond flakes, whole almonds, pecans, cashews, and pistachios all contribute their unique flavours and textures, making the granola a truly satisfying treat.

Chia seeds are added for their nutritional benefits, including fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They also lend a pleasant texture to the granola.

Coconut flakes add a touch of tropical sweetness and enhance the overall flavour profile. They also contribute a subtle crunch and hint of coconutty goodness.

To bring it all together, the granola is sweetened with maple syrup, which adds a natural sweetness and helps bind the ingredients. Coconut oil provides a slight richness and helps in achieving the desired crispness during baking. A hint of vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma and flavour.

Preparing homemade granola is simple and requires minimal effort. The dry ingredients are combined in a bowl, while the wet ingredients are mixed separately. The wet mixture is then poured over the dry ingredients and stirred until well coated. The granola is spread onto a baking sheet and baked until golden and fragrant, requiring just a few minutes of active time.

Once cooled, the homemade granola can be stored in an airtight container, preserving its freshness and crispness for several weeks. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or as a wholesome snack to grab on the go.

With its combination of wholesome ingredients and customisable flavours, homemade granola allows you to savour a nutritious and delicious treat. So, indulge in the joy of making your own granola and enjoy the delightful crunch, nutty flavours, and natural sweetness it offers.

Basic Ingredients for Home-made Granola

Granola:

Rolled Oats: The base ingredient for granola, they’re full of fibre and give a filling, hearty texture.

Almond Flakes and Whole Almonds: They add a nice crunch and a pleasant nutty flavour. Almonds are also high in healthy fats and protein.

Pecan Halves: Similar to almonds, pecans contribute to the crunch and also add a buttery flavour.

Cashew Nuts: They offer a unique, sweet and buttery taste and an interesting texture contrast.

Pistachio Kernels: Pistachios lend a distinctive flavour and add colour to the granola.

Chia Seeds: These are a superfood packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, and they give a fun little pop to the granola.

Coconut Flakes: They add a tropical flavour note and a chewy texture.

Salt: It helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavour of the granola.

Maple Syrup: The primary sweetener, it also helps bind the granola together. It brings a rich, deep flavour.

Coconut Oil: It helps to bind the granola and gives it a crispy texture when baked.

Vanilla Extract: It provides a warm, comforting flavour that enhances the other ingredients.

Preparation Tips for Home-made Granola

• Make sure to mix your ingredients very well before baking to ensure the maple syrup and coconut oil evenly coat everything.
• Keep a close eye on the granola in the oven, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a short amount of time.
• Let the granola cool completely before storing it to prevent it from getting soggy.

Serving Tips for Home-made Granola

• Serve this granola with milk or yoghurt for a simple and nutritious breakfast.
• You can also use it as a topping for fruit salads, smoothie bowls, or desserts for added texture and flavour.